Parts for your 2013 Ford Fiesta-Brake shoes

Brake Shoes on the 2013 Ford Fiesta: What You Need to Know

When it comes to the 2013 Ford Fiesta, understanding the braking system is important whether you're doing your own maintenance or just want to know what's going on under the hood. One thing that often comes up is the question of whether this model uses brake shoes and what that means for servicing and replacement.

For those unfamiliar, brake shoes are a component found in drum brake systems. They consist of curved friction material which presses against the inside of a drum to slow or stop the vehicle. This setup is different from disc brakes, which use pads that clamp onto a rotor.

So, does the 2013 Ford Fiesta use brake shoes? Actually, it depends on which wheels you're looking at. Most 2013 Ford Fiesta models come with disc brakes at the front and drum brakes at the rear. This means that the rear brakes do indeed involve brake shoes, while the front brakes utilise pads and discs.

The reason behind this hybrid setup is pretty common in smaller vehicles. Disc brakes up front provide better-stopping power and heat dissipation where the bulk of braking force happens. Drum brakes at the rear, using brake shoes, are cost-effective and adequate for the rear axle where less braking force is needed.

Given that brake shoes are fitted to the rear wheels of the 2013 Ford Fiesta, it is essential for owners to understand their purpose and how to maintain them properly.

Brake shoes play a critical role in the vehicle's overall braking performance. When the driver presses the brake pedal, hydraulic pressure forces the brake shoes outward against the drum's inner surface. The friction generated slows the rotation of the rear wheels, helping to safely reduce speed or bring the vehicle to a stop. Because the rear brakes are often less stressed than the front, brake shoes on the Fiesta can last a good amount of time, but they are not maintenance-free.

One key thing to note about brake shoes is that over time the friction material wears down. Once it gets too thin, the shoes won't grip the drum properly, which reduces braking efficiency and increases stopping distance. If left unchecked, worn brake shoes can also damage the brake drums, leading to more costly repairs. Regular inspection during servicing helps catch any wear early.

When servicing the rear brakes on a 2013 Ford Fiesta, the condition of the brake shoes should be carefully checked. Usually, mechanics will remove the brake drum to get a close look at the thickness and surface of the brake lining. If the shoes look glazed, cracked, or have less than about 2-3mm of friction material left, replacement is needed.

Replacing brake shoes is a fairly straightforward job, but it does require some experience and the right tools. The shoes must be fitted correctly to ensure even contact with the drum, otherwise braking performance can suffer or cause unwanted noise. On top of replacing worn shoes, it's good practice to clean any dust or debris inside the drum and check for any signs of damage on the drum surface itself. Sometimes machining or replacing the drum is necessary to restore a smooth braking surface.

During brake shoe replacement, the brake hardware like springs and adjusters should also be inspected. These small components help keep the shoes correctly positioned and allow for self-adjustment as they wear. Faulty hardware can prevent the shoes from pressing evenly against the drum, reducing brake performance and causing premature wear.

One benefit of drum brakes and brake shoes for Fiesta owners is that they tend to be more forgiving on the budget. Brake shoes are generally cheaper to replace than discs and pads, and they often last longer if maintained properly. That said, don't fall into the trap of ignoring rear brake checks. Good braking balance depends on all wheels, and worn rear brake shoes can upset that balance and even affect ABS operation.

Servicing intervals for brake shoes vary depending on driving style and conditions. If mostly driving around town with frequent stopping, brake shoes may wear faster and need attention every 30,000 to 50,000 kilometres. For highway-heavy driving with less stop-and-go, the shoes could last longer. Listening for unusual noises like scraping or grinding, and noting any changes in braking feel, can help indicate when it's time to have them checked.

In short, the 2013 Ford Fiesta does use brake shoes on the rear wheels, playing a crucial role in the car's braking system. Keeping these in good condition through regular inspection and timely replacement not only helps maintain safety but also keeps maintenance costs down over the lifetime of the vehicle. Whether DIY mechanic or simply someone who wants to better understand their car, knowing about brake shoes on the Fiesta is well worth the time.