The Differences between Drum Brake Rotors and Disc Brake Rotors
When it comes to car maintenance, brakes are one of the most important components to keep in check. Knowing the differences between drum brake rotors and disc brake rotors can help you make informed decisions when it comes to selecting the right type for your vehicle. In this article, we’ll go into detail about each type of brake rotor and explore its unique benefits and drawbacks.
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Introduction
When it comes to stopping your vehicle, the brake rotors play a critical role. There are two main types of brake rotors – drum brake rotors and disc brake rotors. So, what’s the difference between the two? Drum brake rotors are found in older model vehicles.
They work by using a set of shoes that press against the inner surface of the rotor to create friction and slow the rotation of the wheel. Disc brake rotors, on the other hand, are found on most modern vehicles.
They work by using a set of calipers that clamp down on both sides of the rotor to stop the wheel from rotating. Disc brake rotors are generally more effective than drum brake rotors and can provide better braking performance. However, they are also more expensive to replace when they wear out.
What are Drum Brake Rotors?
Drum brake rotors are a type of brake rotor that is typically found on older model vehicles. These rotors work by using a set of brake shoes that press against the inside of the rotor to create friction and slow the vehicle down.
While drum brake rotors are not as common as they once were, they are still used on some vehicles today. Disc brake rotors, on the other hand, are the most common type of rotor found on modern vehicles.
These rotors work by using a set of calipers that clamp down on the rotor to create friction and slow the vehicle down. Disc brake rotors are more effective than drum brake rotors and can handle higher speeds and temperatures without wearing out as quickly.
What are Disc Brake Rotors?
- Disc brake rotors are a type of brake rotor that is typically used in conjunction with disc brakes.
- Disc brakes work by using calipers to squeeze brake pads against a rotating disc, which in turn slows down or stops the vehicle.
- Disc brake rotors are made out of metal and they can be either solid or vented. Vented rotors are typically used in high-performance applications where they help to dissipate heat more effectively.
- Disc brake rotors typically last longer than drum brake rotors because they don’t experience the same level of wear and tear.
Additionally, disc brakes provide better stopping power than drum brakes, which is why they are often used on larger vehicles such as trucks and SUVs.
Main Differences Between Drum and Disc Brakes
Disc brakes have several advantages over drum brakes, including better stopping power, longer life, and less maintenance. Here are the main differences between drum and disc brakes:
- Drum brakes rely on a set of shoes that press against the inner surface of a spinning drum to create friction and slow the vehicle.
- Disc brakes, on the other hand, use a set of pads that squeeze together on either side of a spinning disc (or rotor) to create friction.
- Disc brakes are more effective at stopping a vehicle than drum brakes.
- Disc brakes can dissipate heat more effectively than drum brakes, so they don’t fade as much under heavy braking. And since there’s no contact between the pad and the drum with disc brakes, there’s less wear and tear, meaning they last longer.
- Disc brakes also require less maintenance than drum brakes.
- Drum brake shoes need to be replaced periodically as they wear down from contact with the drums.
- Disc brake pads can last much longer – often up to twice as long as shoes – before they need to be replaced.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Drum Brake Rotors
Disc brake rotors offer many advantages over drum brake rotors, including better stopping power, longer-lasting pads, and less maintenance. However, there are some disadvantages to consider as well.
Disc brake rotors can be more expensive than drum brake rotors, and they may not be a good choice for off-road vehicles or those that frequently tow heavy loads. When it comes to stopping power, disc brake rotors have a clear advantage.
They can dissipate heat more effectively than drum brake rotors, meaning they can handle repeated stops without fading as quickly. This makes them ideal for high-performance vehicles or those that are frequently used in stop-and-go traffic. In addition, disc brake pads typically last longer than those used with drum brakes, meaning you won’t have to replace them as often. However, there are some disadvantages to consider when choosing disc brake rotors.
They can be more expensive than drum brake rotors, so if cost is a major concern you may want to stick with the latter option. Additionally, while they offer better performance overall, disc brakes may not be the best choice for off-road vehicles or those that frequently tow heavy loads.
This is because they are more susceptible to damage from debris and rocks kicked up by the tires. If you do choose disc brakes for your off-road vehicle or one that frequently tows heavy loads, make sure to inspect them regularly for any damage.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Disc Brake Rotors
Disc brake rotors offer many advantages over drum brake rotors. They are more effective at dissipating heat, which leads to better braking performance and longer rotor life.
Disc brakes also provide better stopping power in wet weather and are less prone to fade than drum brakes. Additionally, disc brakes allow for smaller, lighter-weight wheels, which improves suspension performance. However, there are also some disadvantages to consider with disc brake rotors.
They can be more expensive than drum brake rotors, both upfront and in terms of replacement costs. Additionally, disc brake rotors can be damaged by road debris and require more frequent maintenance than drum brakes.
Get in touch with Express Auto & Tires today!
If you need new brake rotors for your vehicle, it’s important to know the difference between drum brake rotors and disc brake rotors. Drum brake rotors are typically found on older model vehicles or vehicles that have a rear-wheel drivetrain. Disc brake rotors are more common on newer model vehicles or vehicles with a front-wheel drivetrain. Here at Express Auto & Tires, we can help you determine which type of brake rotor is best for your vehicle and driving needs.
At Express Auto & Tires, our team of mechanics can professionally fix any vehicle that requires servicing, provide you with a thorough diagnostic, and diligently execute a repair to give you the best results possible. Give us a call at 972-636-4903 or contact us online to book your auto service appointment today.