Parts for your 2009 Honda Stream-Brake shoes

2009 Honda Stream brake shoes — do they apply, and how to look after them

Based on Honda’s technical literature — notably the Honda Stream RN6–RN9 Service Manual (2006–2014) and the Honda Electronic Parts Catalogue (EPC) used by dealers — brake shoes are fitted to 2009 Honda Stream variants that use rear drum brakes (common on many 1.8-litre grades in several markets). Variants with rear disc brakes (often RSZ/2.0-litre grades) use brake pads at the rear and typically a caliper‑integrated handbrake, so separate brake shoes are not used on those trims.

Where the vehicle is disc‑equipped at the rear, brake shoes are not relevant because there is no drum-in-hat parking brake, the handbrake mechanism works through the rear calipers. For vehicles with rear drums, brake shoes are the serviceable friction parts inside the drum.

For 2009 Honda Stream models fitted with rear drums, the brake shoes do the heavy lifting for rear braking and the handbrake. Each shoe has a friction lining that presses against the inside of the drum to slow the car. They’re simple, robust, and well suited to everyday Aussie and Kiwi driving, but like any friction material they wear over time and need periodic attention.

As part of routine servicing, a visual inspection of the shoes, drums, and hardware should be carried out roughly every 20,000 km or 12 months, or sooner if the Stream tows, carries full loads, or sees lots of stop‑start city use. Technicians look for lining thickness (replace when near 2 mm or if the workshop spec says so), glazing, cracking, or contamination from brake fluid or grease. Drums are measured against the maximum diameter spec, if over limit or heat‑spotted, they should be replaced rather than machined.

Good practice during replacement includes renewing the return springs and hold‑down hardware, cleaning out brake dust (with appropriate PPE), lightly lubricating the shoe contact points on the backing plate, and setting the self‑adjuster so the shoes are just off the drum. The handbrake cable free‑play is then adjusted so the lever travel is within spec.

Owners can watch for tell‑tales that the shoes need attention:

• Longer stopping distances or a low/long brake pedal
• Weak handbrake hold or too many clicks on the lever
• Scraping or squealing from the rear, especially at low speeds
• Rear wheels heating up after a short drive (possible dragging shoe)

When replacement time comes, shoes should always be done in axle pairs, bedded in gently over the first few hundred kilometres, and rechecked if any noise or pull develops. Sticking with reputable brands that meet or exceed OE spec keeps braking performance consistent with the Stream’s original tuning.

Popular questions about 2009 Honda Stream brake shoes

Does a 2009 Honda Stream have rear drum or disc brakes?
It depends on the variant and market. Many 1.8‑litre grades use rear drums (with brake shoes). Higher‑spec models, such as RSZ/2.0‑litre grades, commonly run rear discs (no brake shoes). A quick look behind the rear wheel — drum is a closed round housing, disc is an exposed rotor — or a VIN/parts lookup will confirm what’s fitted.

How often should brake shoes be replaced on a 2009 Honda Stream?
There’s no fixed kilometre figure — it depends on driving conditions. As a guide, have them inspected every 20,000 km or 12 months. Replace when the lining nears about 2 mm, if they’re glazed, cracked, or contaminated, or if the drum is out of spec.

Is it safe to drive with worn brake shoes?
Not advisable. Worn shoes increase stopping distances, reduce handbrake performance, and can score the drum, turning a simple job into a pricier repair. If there’s noise, poor hold on hills, or a long pedal, it’s best to get them checked promptly.