Parts for your 2018 Ford Fiesta-Brake shoes

Brake Shoes on the 2018 Ford Fiesta: What You Need to Know

When it comes to the braking system of the 2018 Ford Fiesta, brake shoes are not typically part of the picture. This model generally uses disc brakes at the front and drum brakes at the rear in some variants, but in many modern passenger cars, the rear brakes often feature disc brakes as well, especially in newer trims or more performance-oriented versions. Specifically for the 2018 Ford Fiesta, most versions are fitted with disc brakes at the front and rear discs or drums, but rear brake shoes do exist in models that still use drum brakes.

Brake shoes are components used exclusively in drum brake systems. They consist of a curved piece of metal that is bonded or riveted with friction material on one side. When the brake pedal is pressed, these shoes are forced outward against the inside of the drum, creating friction that slows the vehicle down. Since disc brakes use brake pads pressed against a disc rotor, they do not use brake shoes.

If the 2018 Ford Fiesta variant in question has drum brakes at the rear, then it will indeed have brake shoes. Drum brakes are less expensive and simpler in design, and they are often good enough for rear brakes where stopping force demands are typically lower. However, many newer Ford Fiesta trims have moved to disc brakes all round for better stopping power and ease of maintenance.

For those Fiesta owners whose cars are fitted with drum brakes and brake shoes, it is important to understand what brake shoes do and how to keep them in good shape. Brake shoes play a vital role in stopping the car safely, so making sure they're in good condition is essential for road safety and vehicle longevity.

Brake shoes handle the friction that converts kinetic energy into heat to slow down the car when you press the brake pedal. The friction material on the brake shoes wears down with use, which means the shoes need to be routinely checked and replaced when they get thin. If brake shoes wear out completely, you risk reduced braking efficiency or damage to the brake drum itself, which can be much more expensive to fix.

Maintenance of brake shoes revolves mainly around regular inspections during routine servicing. Mechanics typically check the thickness of the friction lining, look out for cracking or contamination by oil or grease, and inspect the brake drums for scoring or damage. If the shoes are wearing unevenly, it can indicate other issues like faulty wheel cylinders or broken return springs.

Replacing brake shoes on a 2018 Ford Fiesta fitted with drum brakes is best left to professionals unless you are fairly confident and equipped for DIY maintenance. The process involves removing the drum, carefully releasing the springs and hardware holding the shoes in place, and swapping them for new components. It's important to ensure the new shoes are the right size and type for the model year and trim of the Fiesta. Improperly fitted shoes can lead to poor braking performance or noise.

Some signs that it might be time to replace the brake shoes on the 2018 Fiesta include a long travel on the brake pedal before the brakes engage, a grinding or squealing noise when braking, vibrating or pulling to one side, or a visible reduction in braking efficiency. If any of these symptoms occur, it's best to have the brakes checked promptly.

Brake shoe replacement intervals can vary widely based on driving style, local conditions, and the typical load the vehicle carries. For example, city driving with frequent stops tends to wear brake shoes faster than highway cruising. Many mechanics recommend checking brake shoes every 30,000 to 50,000 kilometres or whenever the brake system is serviced.

While brake shoes might seem like a minor component, their role is crucial. Keeping them well maintained ensures that the Fiesta stops smoothly and safely every time. Neglecting brake shoes can lead to more costly repairs down the track, including damage to brake drums and other parts of the drum brake assembly.

In short, if the 2018 Ford Fiesta variant has drum brakes at the rear, it definitely uses brake shoes and they require regular attention to maintain braking performance. If the model features discs all round, then brake shoes are not relevant to that particular vehicle's brake system. Either way, understanding your car's braking components helps in making informed decisions about maintenance and repairs to keep your ride safe and reliable on Aussie roads.