Parts for your 2017 Lexus Is-Brake shoes

Brake Shoes and the 2017 Lexus IS: What You Need to Know

When it comes to the braking system of the 2017 Lexus IS, it's important to understand what parts are actually used to keep the car stopping safely and effectively. One term that often gets mentioned in relation to brakes is brake shoes. However, if you're looking into the specifics of the 2017 Lexus IS, you'll find that brake shoes are not actually part of its braking setup. But why is that? And what does this mean for your car's brake maintenance and servicing? Let's dive in.

Brake shoes are a component traditionally found in drum brake systems. They consist of a curved piece of metal with friction material on one side. When you press the brake pedal on vehicles with drum brakes, the brake shoes physically push outward against the inside of a spinning drum attached to the wheel, creating the friction needed to slow the vehicle down. This system was once very common, especially on older vehicles and on the rear wheels of some modern cars as well.

For the 2017 Lexus IS though, the setup is different. This car typically uses disc brakes on all four wheels. Disc brakes rely on brake pads that clamp down onto a rotating disc or rotor. This method is often preferred in modern vehicles because it provides superior heat dissipation, better performance in wet conditions, and generally more consistent and responsive braking compared to drum brakes.

So, why exactly do manufacturers like Lexus choose disc brakes over drum brakes, and thus avoid using brake shoes altogether in models like the 2017 IS? Here are a few reasons:

• Better Stopping Power: Disc brakes offer quicker and more effective braking, especially under heavy use. This is critical for performance sedans like the Lexus IS, which drivers expect to deliver sharp handling and safety.
• Heat Management: Disc brakes cool down faster than drum brakes. Excess heat can cause brake fade, where braking efficiency drops, and disc brakes reduce this risk.
• Easier Maintenance: Brake pads and rotors are generally easier to inspect and service, helping keep maintenance simpler and quicker.
• Consistent Performance: Disc brakes perform reliably in various driving conditions, including wet weather, where drum brakes are sometimes less effective.

Because of these points, the 2017 Lexus IS employs disc brakes all around, so brake shoes are not fitted on this model. This means if you're searching for replacement brake shoes or wondering about their upkeep on your Lexus IS, you won't find these parts listed in the vehicle's specifications or recommended servicing routines.

Instead, owners and technicians focus on caring for the brake pads, discs, calipers, and fluid. The brake pads in your 2017 Lexus IS need to be checked regularly for wear. Worn brake pads can damage the rotors and reduce braking effectiveness, so timely replacement is essential to maintain safety and performance. Generally, brake pads last between 30,000 and 70,000 kilometres, but this can vary depending on driving style, conditions, and whether you're doing city or highway driving.

During servicing, mechanics inspect the entire braking system to ensure everything functions correctly. This includes checking the thickness of the brake pads, the condition of the rotors, and ensuring the brake fluid is at the correct level and free from moisture. Brake fluid normally needs to be replaced every two years to prevent corrosion and maintain proper hydraulic function.

Ignoring brake maintenance can lead to more expensive repairs down the track, such as disc or caliper replacement, and most importantly, it can compromise safety. So while brake shoes aren't part of the picture for the 2017 Lexus IS, the importance of regular brake checks and maintenance can't be overstated.

To keep a Lexus IS in top shape, it's a good idea to follow the manufacturer's recommended service schedule, which includes brake system inspections and pad replacements when needed. Drivers should also stay alert to signs of brake issues, such as squeaking or grinding noises, a softer brake pedal, or longer stopping distances.

In short, while brake shoes play a key role on many vehicles with drum brakes, they are not relevant or used on the 2017 Lexus IS. This car sticks with modern disc brakes for reliable, high-performance stopping power. Owners should focus their attention and care on maintaining the disc brake pads, rotors, and fluid to ensure their Lexus IS brakes perform safely and efficiently for many kilometres ahead.