Parts for your 2018 Subaru Exiga-Brake shoes

Brake Shoes on the 2018 Subaru Exiga: What You Need to Know

The 2018 Subaru Exiga is a well-rounded vehicle popular for its spacious interior and smooth driving experience. When it comes to braking systems, many people often wonder whether it uses brake shoes or not. After checking technical specifications and repair manuals from Subaru, it turns out the 2018 Subaru Exiga does not use brake shoes on its braking system. Instead, this vehicle is equipped with disc brakes on all four wheels.

So why no brake shoes? Well, brake shoes are a component of drum brakes, which have mostly been phased out in modern passenger cars except for some budget or very small vehicles. Drum brakes work by pressing brake shoes outward against the inside of a rotating drum attached to the wheel. While drum brakes are effective, disc brakes offer better stopping power, easier maintenance, improved heat dissipation, and generally superior performance overall. These advantages have led manufacturers like Subaru to fit disc brakes, which use brake pads instead of brake shoes, on all four wheels of models like the 2018 Exiga.

Given that the 2018 Subaru Exiga uses disc brakes with brake pads rather than drum brakes with brake shoes, it's important for owners to focus their attention on the maintenance and replacement of brake pads, rotors, and associated hardware rather than brake shoes. Brake pads typically last between 30,000 and 70,000 kilometres depending on driving conditions, and their wear significantly impacts braking performance and vehicle safety.

Owners who are curious about brake shoes might do so because they have experience with older vehicles or different types of machinery where drum brake systems are commonly found. But for the 2018 Subaru Exiga, the brake shoes simply do not apply due to the adoption of a four-wheel disc brake system.

Disc brakes make servicing a bit more straightforward in many cases. The brake pads are accessible by removing the wheel and the brake caliper, and replacement usually takes less time than servicing drum brakes with brake shoes. Brake pads visible in the caliper can be visually inspected for wear, making it easier to decide when it's time for replacement.

Choosing the right type of brake pads for the 2018 Exiga is important. The vehicle's manufacturer recommends pads that match the disc type and are designed to provide consistent braking force, minimal noise, and little dust. Subaru Genuine Parts or reputable aftermarket brands are generally good choices for replacement pads. Using the correct pads ensures performance, longevity, and safety.

Routine maintenance plays a key role in keeping the braking system at optimum levels. Besides replacing worn brake pads, it's wise to regularly check the brake fluid condition and level, brake rotors for signs of wear or warping, and brake calipers for smooth operation. Neglecting these components can lead to uneven braking, vibrations, or even brake failure in extreme cases.

When brake pads approach the end of their life, some cars feature built-in wear indicators that produce a squealing sound to alert the driver. The 2018 Subaru Exiga commonly has these to prevent pads from completely wearing out unnoticed. Prompt attention to these warning sounds can save costly repairs and improve safety on the road.

Because it doesn't have drum brakes, the 2018 Exiga is less likely to face some common brake shoe issues like rust buildup inside drums or difficulty returning brake shoes to their resting position. That said, disc brakes come with their own maintenance needs such as ensuring brake caliper pistons move freely and avoid sticking, which can cause uneven pad wear.

For owners who prefer do-it-yourself servicing, replacing brake pads on the Exiga is manageable with basic automotive tools and some knowledge. However, if you're unsure or want to avoid the hassle, professional servicing at an authorised Subaru dealership or trusted mechanic is always a good idea. They'll ensure the right parts go in, the brake system is properly bled to remove air, and all bolts are torqued to specification.

Keeping brakes in good shape is about more than just brake pads or shoes it's also about how the vehicle is driven. Gentle braking and avoiding hard stops whenever possible can extend the life of brake pads and rotors. Regular inspections especially before long trips or harsh weather conditions can spot potential problems early.

In essence, the 2018 Subaru Exiga's braking system relies on disc brakes and brake pads rather than brake shoes. While brake shoes are still relevant in certain vehicles with drum brakes, they are not applicable here due to the better performance and maintenance advantages offered by disc brakes. Owners should focus on proper pad selection, regular brake system checks, and timely servicing to keep their Exiga stopping safely and smoothly for many kilometres to come.