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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