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’s 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.
