Parts for your 2016 Mitsubishi Asx-Brake shoes

Brake Shoes on the 2016 Mitsubishi ASX: Are They Used and What You Need to Know

When it comes to the braking system on the 2016 Mitsubishi ASX, understanding the components involved is key to keeping the vehicle safe and reliable on the road. One common question that pops up is whether this model uses brake shoes or not. The short answer is that brake shoes are not part of the braking system on the 2016 Mitsubishi ASX. Instead, this vehicle uses disc brakes on all four wheels, which means it relies on brake pads rather than brake shoes.

So why isn't there a need for brake shoes in this car? It comes down to the type of brakes fitted. Brake shoes are typically used in drum brake systems. This system relies on a rotating drum attached to the wheel and brake shoes that press outwards against the drum to create friction and slow the car down. Drum brakes were more common in older vehicles or on the rear brakes of some vehicles as a cost-effective option. Brake shoes are the curved friction material that presses against the inside of the drum to stop the vehicle.

The 2016 Mitsubishi ASX comes equipped with a modern braking setup featuring disc brakes on both the front and rear wheels. Disc brakes use brake pads that clamp onto a metal disc (or rotor) to slow the vehicle down. This system is generally more effective than drum brakes, providing better stopping power, improved heat dissipation, and easier maintenance. Because of these advantages, many modern small SUVs and passenger vehicles like the ASX have done away with drum brakes and brake shoes entirely.

Having disc brakes all around means brake shoes simply aren't relevant for the Mitsubishi ASX. Instead, maintenance and servicing focus on brake pads, discs, and related components like calipers and brake fluid. For ASX owners, this means that replacement parts, wear checks, and servicing revolve around pads rather than shoes.

Even though brake shoes are not used on the 2016 ASX, it's still worth understanding what brake shoes do and how the maintenance process differs, especially if someone owns multiple vehicles or is curious about braking systems in general. Brake shoes work by pressing outwards inside the drum, creating friction to slow the wheel. Over time, they wear down and require replacement. Failure to replace worn brake shoes can lead to longer stopping distances, damaged drums, noisy brakes, and potentially unsafe driving conditions.

Replacing brake shoes typically involves removing the drum to access the shoes, springs, and wheel cylinder. It is important to replace all shoes on the same axle for even braking and to inspect related components for damage and wear. Unlike brake pads, brake shoes often require more careful adjustment to ensure they sit correctly in the drum and engage evenly.

For Mitsubishi ASX owners, the focus instead is on brake pads and discs. Service recommendations usually include regular inspections every 15,000 to 20,000 kilometres or as per the owner's manual. Brake pads wear naturally over time due to friction and heat, and when they get too thin, it's time for replacement. Ignoring brake pad wear can cause damage to the rotor, which can be more costly to fix.

Brake pad replacement on the ASX is a fairly straightforward process that includes removing the wheel, taking off the caliper, replacing the worn pads, and checking for any leaks or damage. It's a good opportunity for mechanics or DIY enthusiasts to inspect brake fluid levels and test overall braking performance. Keeping the brake system well-maintained ensures that the ASX delivers reliable stopping power, which is crucial for everyday safety.

In a nutshell, while brake shoes are a vital part of drum brake systems, they have no role in the braking system of the 2016 Mitsubishi ASX. This vehicle's full disc brake setup means brake pads are what keep it stopping safely. Regular checks and timely replacement of brake pads will keep the ASX's brakes working smoothly and avoid more expensive repairs down the track.