What are drum brakes and how do they work?

Car brakes have many essential components that need regular car maintenance to remain in perfect working condition.

In this guide, we look at drum brakes, how they work, and common problems to look out for.

What are drum brakes?

Drum brakes are a common type of braking system found in mostly older cars in the UK. They can also be found in some rear wheel systems in modern vehicles.

Instead of squeezing brake discs to slow a vehicle down, drum brakes move or press parts outwards against the inside of a spinning drum. The drum is a round, metallic housing that is attached to the wheel hub.

How do drum brakes work?

When the brake pedal is pressed by the driver, hydraulic pressure pushes two brake shoes outwards against the inside surface of the rotating drum. This creates friction that slows the drum’s rotation, causing the vehicle to slow down.

The handbrake usually operates on drum brake systems by mechanically moving the brake shoes via a cable(s) against the drums when the handbrake lever is operated.

• Everything you need to know about brake pads
• Brake fluid change – all you need to know
• What are brake calipers?

Common drum brake problems

There are several things that drivers should look out for when it comes to issues with drum brakes.

• Sticking/seizing: Due to the mechanical moving components within the drum, that operate the brake shoes, sticking or seizing is possible. This is particularly noticeable in the winter months when frozen brakes are common
• Overheating: Drum brakes are not the best for heat dissipation and are more susceptible to overheating when compared to disc and pad systems
• Warping: In extreme circumstances, under prolonged and heavy braking, the heat generated can warp the shape of the drum. You may feel a pulsing through the pedal when applying the brake as well as vibration

When the rear brakes are excessively worn, or developing problems, the first signs you may notice is that the handbrake is weak or ineffective, which will require investigation.

Regular car maintenance is key to maintaining the efficiency of the drum brakes, brake shoes typically wear quicker than brake pads and like pads, if they are allowed to wear down to the metal, damage to the drum will occur.                          

You should also be aware of when your braking system needs fluid top ups and changes. This will be detailed in the owner’s manual for your car.

How much does it cost to fix drum brakes?

When it comes to issues with drum brakes, the most common resolution is to replace them.

It should be noted that any replacement of brake shoes and / or drums must be fitted in pairs – e.g. both sides of the vehicle.

However, in some cases where the linkages are sticking or seized, they often only need to be lubricated in order to work correctly.

In other cases, the fix might need to be a to a different part of the braking mechanism. In this case, it is best to speak to a mobile mechanic.

How much does it cost to replace drum brakes?

Drum brake components range up to £60, while the replacement of them by a mechanic (including parts and labour), can be up to £350.

The final price will vary due to make, model, age, and the type of brakes – as well as where the work will be carried out.

^{Source: whocanfixmycar, February 2026.}