Parts for your 2012 Ford Falcon-Brake shoes

Brake Shoes on the 2012 Ford Falcon: What You Need to Know

The 2012 Ford Falcon is a popular Australian sedan known for its robust performance and reliable driving experience. When it comes to its braking system, it's important to understand whether brake shoes are part of the setup, and if so, what role they play and how to keep them in tip-top shape. For the 2012 Ford Falcon, brake shoes are relevant only on the rear brakes, as this vehicle uses a combination of disc brakes on the front wheels and drum brakes at the rear.

Disc brakes on the front end are common in many modern cars including the 2012 Ford Falcon because they offer better stopping power and heat dissipation. However, the rear brakes often use drum brakes, which rely on brake shoes rather than pads. Brake shoes are curved pieces of metal lined with friction material that press against the inside of the drum to slow the wheel down. If your Falcon still has drum brakes on the rear axle, it's those brake shoes doing the hard work every time you hit the brakes.

The primary purpose of brake shoes is to convert the kinetic energy of the moving vehicle into heat through friction, slowing the car down safely. When the driver presses the brake pedal, hydraulic pressure forces the brake shoes outward against the spinning brake drum. This contact creates friction, which reduces wheel rotation and brings the vehicle to a stop. Over time, the friction material on the brake shoes wears down, and that's when maintenance and replacement come into play.

Maintaining the brake shoes in your 2012 Ford Falcon is key to ensuring safe stopping distances and maintaining overall braking performance. Because brake shoes work inside a drum, they tend to last a bit longer than front brake pads but are still prone to wear. Unlike disc brake pads, brake shoes can accumulate dust and dirt inside the drum, which can affect their performance. Regular servicing includes cleaning out brake dust, checking for uneven or excessive shoe wear, and inspecting for any signs of leaking brake fluid or damaged components.

When to replace brake shoes on the 2012 Ford Falcon depends largely on driving conditions and the amount of use. For city drivers who face frequent stopping, brake shoes may need attention sooner than for those who mostly cruise on highways. A good rule of thumb is to have the brake shoes inspected at least every 20,000 kilometres or during routine brake service. Symptoms such as a grinding noise, longer stopping distances, or a soft brake pedal can be signs that the brake shoes are due for replacement.

Replacing brake shoes isn't complicated but it is a precise job that should be handled by a qualified mechanic who knows the Falcon inside out. During the replacement process, the mechanic will also check the brake drums for wear or scoring, as damaged drums can reduce the effectiveness of new brake shoes. In some cases, drums may need to be machined or replaced to ensure a proper fit and optimal braking.

Aside from wear and tear, another reason to pay attention to brake shoes is rust or corrosion, especially if the Falcon is regularly exposed to wet or salty conditions. Corroded components inside the drum can cause the shoes to stick or not retract fully after braking, leading to overheating or premature wear. Keeping your vehicle garaged or rinsing the underbody regularly can help prolong the life of the brake shoes and other suspension components.

To sum it up, brake shoes play a critical role on the rear braking system of the 2012 Ford Falcon. They provide effective stopping power, particularly in steady-state braking conditions, while working in harmony with the front disc brakes. Regular inspection and timely replacement of brake shoes not only keep the car safe on the road but also help avoid costly repairs down the track by preventing damage to the brake drums and other components.

For Falcon owners who want to maintain optimal braking performance, scheduling regular brake checks is a smart move. During such services, technicians will thoroughly inspect both front and rear brake components, measure the thickness of brake shoes, and advise on replacement if wear exceeds manufacturer limits. They'll also top up brake fluid and perform any necessary adjustments to keep the braking system working smoothly.

Remember that brakes are one of the most critical safety features on any vehicle, so taking care of the brake shoes on the 2012 Ford Falcon is simply part of responsible vehicle ownership. With proper maintenance, these components can provide many kilometres of dependable service, ensuring you and your passengers stay safe whenever you hit the road.