Parts for your 2018 Ford Transit-Brake shoes

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

When it comes to the 2018 Ford Transit, understanding how its braking system works is essential for keeping it running safely and smoothly. One common question that pops up is whether brake shoes are used on this model. Simply put, the 2018 Ford Transit does not use brake shoes. Instead, it relies on disc brakes for its braking system, which changes the type of maintenance and parts you need to focus on.

Brake shoes are typically found in drum brake systems. They consist of curved friction material that presses outward against the inside of a rotating drum attached to the wheel, slowing the vehicle down. Drum brakes and their brake shoes were widely used in older vehicles or on rear wheels of certain models but have mostly been replaced by disc brakes on modern vehicles, including the 2018 Ford Transit. This shift has happened because disc brakes offer better stopping power, improved cooling, and simpler maintenance.

So why no brake shoes on this specific Transit? The 2018 Ford Transit uses disc brakes all around, both front and rear wheels. This system consists of a flat metal disc that spins with the wheel, while brake pads clamp down from either side to slow the vehicle. This design is more efficient and provides better performance, especially for a commercial vehicle that may carry heavy loads or handle frequent stopping on the road.

The absence of brake shoes means you won't have to worry about parts that wear differently compared to brake pads. Brake shoes are generally bulkier, require drum replacement or resurfacing if damaged, and can be harder to inspect because of their enclosed design. Disc brakes and their pads, on the other hand, allow for easier visual inspection, quicker servicing, and typically deliver more consistent braking.

For the 2018 Ford Transit owner, this means that regular brake maintenance will focus on the pads, rotors, calipers, and brake fluid rather than brake shoes or drums. It is crucial to check brake pads regularly because worn pads can reduce braking efficiency and damage expensive rotors if ignored. Service intervals vary depending on how much the vehicle is driven, the load it carries, and driving conditions, but having them checked at least every 20,000 kilometres is a good rule of thumb.

Besides checking brake pad thickness, monitoring for any squealing noises, reduced brake responsiveness, or vibrations when braking can indicate the need for maintenance. In keeping with Ford's recommended servicing schedules, replacing brake pads on the 2018 Ford Transit will ensure safe stopping and prolong the lifespan of other brake components.

Also, it is recommended to have brake fluid flushed and replaced periodically since old fluid can absorb moisture, leading to spongy pedal feel and corrosion within the brake system. This preventive step helps maintain the overall braking performance of the vehicle.

In summary, the 2018 Ford Transit does not utilise brake shoes because its braking system is fully based on disc brakes. This setup offers superior stopping power and easier servicing. Owners should instead keep an eye on brake pads, rotors, and brake fluid when planning their routine maintenance. Doing so will keep the Transit stopping safely and reliably for years on the road.