Parts for your 2020 Ford Fiesta-Brake shoes

Brake Shoes on the 2020 Ford Fiesta: What You Need to Know

When it comes to the 2020 Ford Fiesta, brake shoes are not actually part of the braking system. This might come as a surprise if you're familiar with older vehicles or certain types of cars that traditionally use brake shoes. The reason behind this is pretty straightforward: the 2020 Ford Fiesta relies on disc brakes at the front and drum brakes or disc brakes at the rear, depending on the model and variant. In most cases, the rear brakes on the Fiesta are disc brakes, which means brake shoes are not relevant or used at all.

So why aren't brake shoes used on this type of vehicle? Essentially, brake shoes are components related to drum brake systems. They consist of curved friction material that presses outward against a spinning drum attached to the wheel, slowing the vehicle down through friction. In contrast, disc brakes use brake pads that squeeze directly onto a rotating disc or rotor. Disc brakes are generally more efficient, easier to service, and provide better heat dissipation compared to drum brakes with brake shoes. These advantages make disc brakes the preferred choice on modern vehicles like the 2020 Ford Fiesta.

Most modern small cars, including the Ford Fiesta, tend to favour disc brakes all around or at least at the front, with disc brakes delivering better stopping power and a more consistent feel. While some base or older models might keep drum brakes at the rear to save cost and complexity, recent iterations of the Fiesta commonly avoid using drum brakes altogether. This shift away from drum brakes and brake shoes comes from the need for improved braking performance and maintenance convenience that disc brakes offer.

For those who still want to learn about brake shoes though, here's a bit of insight into their purpose and care. Brake shoes form the heart of drum brake systems, designed to press against the inside of a brake drum to slow and stop the vehicle. They have friction material bonded or riveted onto their curved surface, which wears down over time with use. As brake shoes wear, they need replacement to ensure the braking system remains safe and effective. If they are not replaced when worn, it can cause reduced braking power, strange noises, and in some cases, damage to other brake components.

In a vehicle that does use brake shoes, regular inspections are key to keeping the braking system in good shape. Brake shoes should be checked approximately every 20,000 to 30,000 kilometres or during other scheduled brake maintenance. Mechanically, replacing brake shoes typically involves removing the drum, inspecting related components like springs and cylinders, and fitting new shoes. It is also wise to check the brake fluid and wheel cylinders for leaks or damage during servicing.

For the 2020 Ford Fiesta owners, while you don't need to worry about brake shoes specifically, brake pad and rotor maintenance is crucial. Keeping those front and rear discs in good condition is essential for safety and performance. The same principles about friction material, wear, and regular checks still apply, just in a different format. Replacing brake pads before they wear down to the metal ensures smooth braking and prevents damage to expensive rotors.

It's a good idea to follow the manufacturer's recommendations found in the Fiesta's service manual or get a professional mechanic to inspect the brakes regularly. Whether it's the front discs or rear brakes, keeping them in tip-top shape means peace of mind on Aussie roads. Just like brake shoes, brake pads and discs have a lifespan that depends on your driving style, conditions, and vehicle load.

So if you're looking after a 2020 Ford Fiesta, remember brake shoes don't come into play here. Instead, focus on the disc brake system, making sure the pads, rotors, callipers, and brake fluid are maintained according to Ford's servicing guidelines. That way the Fiesta's brakes will keep you safe through the city streets, cruising highways, and weekend drives.