Description: Historically, pads and shoes contained a lining material made of asbestos or asbestos
compounds. Today's friction lining may contain semi-metallic compounds, non-asbestos organic
compounds, and ceramics, among others.

Purpose: Pads and shoes are the wearable friction elements of the braking system. When installed
properly, they should provide reliable and quiet braking for many miles.
 
Description: Brake drums and rotors are the spinning members of the braking system that
come in contact with the lining material from the brake shoes and pads. Drums are usually
made of cast iron and rotors may be made of cast iron, or a composite of cast iron and a
stamped steel center section.

Purpose: Drums and rotors provide the mating surface for brake shoes and pads.
Because of the heat generated from all the friction, a drum or rotor must be able to remain
stable even when subjected to the temperatures of repeated braking.   

Maintenance Tips/Suggestions: Have your car's brakes inspected annually to make sure
everything is OK. It's always best to be able to plan ahead for brake work by knowing
brake condition as your car ages. Brakes are a normal wear item for any car, so sooner or
later they're going to need replacement. Planning can also save you money, because the
brakes won't get to the "metal-to-metal" point, which usually means expensive rotor or
drum replacement. Symptoms of brake problems may include dragging brakes, squealing
brakes, a pulsating brake pedal (with ABS not functioning), grinding brakes, a low brake
pedal or pulling when braking. If your car exhibits any of these symptoms, have it checked
out by a qualified technician as soon as possible.    
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