Parts for your 2017 Honda Civic-Brake shoes

Brake Shoes and the 2017 Honda Civic: What You Need to Know

When looking into the braking system of the 2017 Honda Civic, it's important to understand the role of brake shoes and whether or not they are relevant for this particular vehicle. The 2017 Honda Civic primarily uses disc brakes on all four wheels or at least on the front wheels and drum brakes on the rear. But here's the catch: in most modern Honda Civics, especially the 2017 model year, rear brakes typically do not use traditional brake shoes. Instead, this vehicle primarily relies on disc brake pads, even at the back, depending on the variant.

Brake shoes are components of drum brakes. Drum brakes consist of a drum that rotates with the wheel and brake shoes that press outward against the inside of the drum to provide stopping power. This system has been widely used in older cars and smaller or rear wheels of some vehicles due to its simple design and cost-effectiveness. However, many newer cars, including the 2017 Honda Civic, tend to favour disc brakes for their superior performance and ease of maintenance.

Why the shift from brake shoes to disc brake pads in vehicles like the Honda Civic? It's largely down to efficiency and reliability. Disc brakes offer better heat dissipation, improved stopping power under all driving conditions, and are generally easier to inspect and replace. This makes them a favourite for all four wheels on mid-range and sports models, such as the 2017 Honda Civic. While some Civics in earlier generations or more budget-focused trims might have rear drums with brake shoes, the 2017 model typically does not.

So, to answer the question directly: brake shoes are generally not used on the 2017 Honda Civic. The vehicle is designed with disc brake pads on all four wheels or at least on the front, with many models having disc brakes at the rear as well. This means there is no need to worry about brake shoe maintenance or replacement if you own this model, which simplifies servicing and parts availability.

That said, having a great set of pads and well-maintained disc brakes is essential. The brake pads in the 2017 Honda Civic play the role that brake shoes once did. These pads press against the spinning disc rotor to slow down the car when the brakes are applied. Over time, brake pads wear down from the friction, making routine checks and replacements an important part of keeping the Civic stopping safely and efficiently.

When it comes to your 2017 Honda Civic, brake pad health should be checked regularly, either during scheduled servicing or if you notice any of the tell-tale signs of worn brakes. This includes squealing noises while braking, longer stopping distances, or a soft brake pedal feel. Neglecting brake maintenance can lead to damage to the rotors, which are more expensive to repair or replace compared to brake pads.

Maintaining the braking system on a 2017 Honda Civic is straightforward. During servicing, mechanics will typically inspect the brake pads, measuring their thickness to ensure they still have plenty of material left for safe operation. If the pads are worn close to the manufacturer's minimum thickness, it's time for a replacement.

Replacing brake pads on a 2017 Honda Civic is usually quite an easy job for a professional. The old pads are removed from the caliper assembly, and new ones are fitted in. It's also a good idea to check the brake rotors for any signs of warping or scoring, which may require resurfacing or replacement. Brake fluid levels should also be monitored, as fresh fluid helps to maintain optimal braking performance.

Keeping the Civic's braking system in top shape doesn't require a lot of hassle. Just remember to get your brakes checked regularly and listen for any unusual noises or changes in braking feel. This proactive approach keeps the vehicle safe on Australian roads and ensures peace of mind whether you're navigating city traffic or cruising on the highway.

For Civic owners keen on DIY, replacing brake pads is something many can handle with some mechanical know-how and the right tools. However, if there's any doubt or if brakes haven't been serviced for some time, visiting a professional mechanic is strongly recommended. They'll make sure everything is fitted correctly and the braking system functions exactly as it should.

To sum it up for the 2017 Honda Civic, brake shoes are not a component that's part of the braking setup. The model primarily uses disc brakes with brake pads. So for anyone maintaining a Civic, focus your attention on the brake pads and discs rather than brake shoes. This approach guarantees you're caring for the right parts, ensuring your vehicle stays safe and stops when you need it to without fuss.