Parts for your 2017 Mitsubishi Lancer-Brake shoes

Brake Shoes and the 2017 Mitsubishi Lancer: What You Need to Know

When it comes to the brake system of the 2017 Mitsubishi Lancer, the term brake shoes might come up, especially if someone is familiar with older or certain types of vehicles. However, the 2017 Mitsubishi Lancer does not actually use brake shoes as part of its braking system. Instead, this model is equipped with disc brakes on all four wheels. This is an important distinction because brake shoes are typically part of drum brake systems, which are less common on modern passenger vehicles, especially in both the front and rear braking positions.

So why aren't brake shoes used on the 2017 Mitsubishi Lancer? It comes down to the design and efficiency of braking systems. Drum brakes and their brake shoes were widely used in the past, mainly on the rear wheels of many vehicles. Brake shoes work by pressing outward against the inside of a drum attached to the wheel to create friction and slow the car down. Although they are durable and relatively simple, brake shoes and drum brakes generally don't offer the same stopping power, heat dissipation, or performance consistency as disc brakes.

On the 2017 Mitsubishi Lancer, the engineers opted for disc brakes at all four corners for better overall braking performance, especially in contemporary driving conditions. Disc brakes use brake pads that clamp down on a visible rotor or disc when the brake pedal is applied. This design provides superior heat management, which reduces brake fade during heavy use. It also helps maintain better stopping power and is easier to service or inspect compared to drum brakes and brake shoes.

For those curious, brake shoes still have their place in some vehicles, especially in older models, light commercial vehicles, or certain budget cars. Some vehicles use front disc brakes and rear drum brakes, so brake shoes would typically be found in the drum at the rear. However, the Lancer's design, particularly the 2017 model, has moved completely to disc brakes, making brake shoes irrelevant.

This transition to disc brakes means a few things for Mitsubishi Lancer owners. First, if you hear about brake shoes, you can be sure the conversation is about components not fitted to your car. Instead, focus should be on brake pads, rotors, and calipers for maintenance and replacement tasks to keep the brakes functioning smoothly.

Even though brake shoes aren't used on the 2017 Mitsubishi Lancer, understanding how modern braking components work is important. Disc brakes require regular inspection of brake pads and rotors. Over time pads wear down and must be replaced to maintain braking efficiency, similar to the way brake shoes would require replacement in drum systems. The difference is that disc brakes are simpler to inspect visually since the rotor and pads are exposed rather than enclosed inside a drum.

During a regular service or brake check, mechanics will look for pad thickness, rotor condition, and any signs of brake fluid leaks or caliper malfunction. Keeping these parts in good shape ensures the Lancer can stop safely and smoothly. Worn brake pads or warped rotors can cause noises, vibrations, and longer stopping distances - all signs that the brakes need attention.

For those DIY enthusiasts, replacing brake pads on the 2017 Lancer is fairly straightforward with the right tools. It is important to use quality replacement pads that match Mitsubishi's specifications and to ensure the brake system is clean and free of debris. The rotors might also need resurfacing or replacement if they're worn unevenly or damaged. After any brake work, bleeding the brake lines to remove air is crucial to maintain proper brake pedal feel and responsiveness.

Additionally, regular brake fluid changes are recommended to keep the hydraulic system working efficiently. Brake fluid can absorb moisture over time, which lowers its boiling point and reduces braking performance, especially under hard use. Sticking to the service intervals for brake fluid replacement helps avoid brake fade and potential component failure.

While brake shoes are not part of the equation for the 2017 Mitsubishi Lancer, the overall lesson about braking maintenance still applies. Keeping an eye on your braking system through regular inspections and timely replacement of worn parts is key to staying safe on the road. The modern disc brake design used on this car makes this task relatively hassle-free, with easy access to critical components and improved braking performance overall.

So, if you ever come across references to brake shoes for your Lancer, don't worry - your car is equipped with a more advanced braking system. Focus on keeping those brake pads, rotors, and fluid in good nick and your 2017 Mitsubishi Lancer will continue to stop safely and reliably for years to come.