Parts for your 2016 Ford Everest-Brake shoes

Understanding Brake Shoes and Their Role in the 2016 Ford Everest

When it comes to the 2016 Ford Everest, it's important to understand the braking system that this popular 4WD utilises. Contrary to some older vehicle designs that often feature brake shoes, the 2016 Ford Everest does not use brake shoes in its braking system. Instead, it employs disc brakes all around, both at the front and rear wheels.

So, why no brake shoes on the 2016 Everest? Brake shoes are components used in drum brake systems, which have been largely replaced by disc brakes in modern vehicles, especially on models like the Everest, which is designed for robust performance and off-road capability. Disc brakes offer better stopping power, improved heat dissipation, and more consistent braking performance under demanding conditions compared to drum brakes. Because of these advantages, the 2016 Ford Everest is fitted with disc brakes, making brake shoes irrelevant in this application.

Drum brakes with brake shoes tend to be found mainly on older or smaller vehicles, or sometimes as rear brakes on light vehicles where cost is a big factor. However, the Everest's design prioritises durability and safety - including for off-road use - which is why it uses disc brakes all round.

But for those curious about brake shoes in general, here's a deeper look at their purpose and maintenance, just so you know what's going on with your vehicle's braking system or if you come across brake shoes in another car or ute.

Brake shoes are curved pieces of metal with a friction material lining on one side. They fit inside a drum that rotates with the wheel. When you press the brake pedal in a vehicle with drum brakes, hydraulic pressure forces the brake shoes outward against the drum's interior surface. The friction created between the brake shoe lining and the drum slows the wheel and eventually brings the vehicle to a stop.

One reason brake shoes have stuck around for many years in certain vehicles is their simplicity and cost-effectiveness. Drum brakes can be cheaper to manufacture and maintain, and the enclosed design protects the braking components from dirt and water, which is handy in certain environments.

Taking care of brake shoes typically involves checking the thickness of the friction lining and inspecting them for cracks or uneven wear. As with any brake component, worn or damaged brake shoes will reduce braking effectiveness, create noise, and in worse cases, cause damage to the drum itself.

In service, replacing brake shoes is usually straightforward. The brake drum needs to be removed first, then the old brake shoes are detached from the backing plate. New shoes are installed, and the mechanism is adjusted to ensure the right clearance within the drum. This adjustment is crucial because improperly fitted brake shoes can lead to poor braking or premature wear.

It's also recommended that any servicing or replacement of brake shoes be done with attention to the entire brake system. That means checking brake fluid levels, inspecting wheel cylinders for leaks, and replacing hardware like springs or pins if they show signs of wear. Fresh grease on moving parts and ensuring no corrosion or damage is present also extends the lifespan of brake components.

While brake shoes are a significant piece of braking tech in many vehicles, for the 2016 Ford Everest, drivers can be assured they are driving a car equipped with modern disc brakes throughout. This system offers superior performance, especially for the kind of towing, off-road adventures, or family outings Everest owners often put their vehicles through.

Regular brake servicing on the Everest still remains essential. This includes checking brake pads, discs, calipers, and fluid levels to maintain that smooth, confident braking feel. So if you're looking after your 2016 Everest, focus your attention on those disc brake components instead of brake shoes.