Parts for your 2016 Ford Falcon-Brake shoes

Brake Shoes on the 2016 Ford Falcon: What You Need to Know

The 2016 Ford Falcon is a reliable, Aussie favourite that offers great performance and comfort. When talking about brake systems on this model, it's important to understand what types of components it uses, specifically whether brake shoes are part of the setup. For most modern vehicles like the 2016 Ford Falcon, brake shoes are not a relevant component because this Falcon primarily uses disc brakes, especially on the front wheels, and often on the rear wheels as well.

Brake shoes are a part of drum brake systems, which were commonly used on older cars or on the rear wheels of some budget or smaller vehicles. Drum brakes work by pressing the brake shoes outward against a spinning drum attached to the wheel, creating friction to slow the vehicle. However, the 2016 Ford Falcon utilises disc brakes on all four wheels, where brake pads squeeze against a rotor to create stopping power. This design is generally more efficient and offers better heat dissipation than drum brakes, which is why brake shoes are not fitted or relevant for the Falcon's braking system.

So why has Ford moved away from brake shoes in the Falcon? It mostly comes down to performance and safety. Disc brakes provide more consistent stopping power and are less prone to fading under heavy use, such as towing or spirited driving conditions. They also require less maintenance and are easier to inspect because the pads and rotors are visible, whereas drum brakes with brake shoes are sealed inside the drum, making regular inspection less straightforward.

For those owners curious about servicing brakes on the 2016 Ford Falcon, the focus should be on brake pads and rotors rather than brake shoes. However, understanding what brake shoes do can be useful knowledge, especially if you've dealt with older vehicles or if you're just interested in how different brake systems work.

Brake shoes are curved friction components that fit inside a brake drum. When the driver presses the brake pedal, hydraulic pressure forces the brake shoes outward against the inner surface of the drum, causing friction that slows the wheel down. They are usually made from a sturdy backing with a friction material bonded to the outside. Over time, this friction material wears down and the brake shoes need to be replaced to maintain proper braking performance.

If your vehicle did have brake shoes, or if you encounter one that does, here's a casual guide to what maintenance or replacement might involve. Brake shoes generally last a long time because the drum setup spreads the braking forces across a larger surface area. Still, over months and years, they do wear out and can cause reduced braking efficiency or noises like squealing or scraping.

During a service, mechanics will check the thickness of the brake shoe lining and inspect the drums for any scoring or damage. If the lining is thin or the drum surface is worn or scored, it's time for replacements or machining. Replacing brake shoes involves removing the wheel and drum, then swapping out the old shoes for new ones. This is often a job left to professionals because of the springs and clips that hold the shoes in place, which can be tricky without the right tools.

Whether brake shoes or pads, proper servicing is key to safe driving. Always refer to the manufacturer's recommended service intervals, and pay attention to any changes in braking feel or unusual noises. Neglecting brake shoe replacement can lead to metal-on-metal contact inside the drum, resulting in costly repairs and compromised stopping power.

Even though the 2016 Falcon runs with disc brakes all around, knowing about brake shoes helps put the vehicle's braking system into context. Drivers can be confident that their Falcon's braking tech not only delivers strong and reliable performance but also fits modern safety standards. Regular servicing with a qualified mechanic ensures brakes - pads and rotors included - are in tip-top shape so each journey remains smooth and safe.