Ask Honest John

Honest John Ask Honest John » Are drum brakes too old?
What is life like with your car? Let us know and win £500 in John Lewis vouchers | No thanks

Are drum brakes too old?

I am thinking of buying the new Ford Focus but I do not agree with Fords policy of selling the new model with rear drum brakes.

The entire C segment is now equipped with rear disk brakes, but Ford insists in selling Focus without them, on the allegation that the tests carried out prove that rear drum brakes are more efficient with this chassis.

Is this a simple way of cutting costs at the expense of safety? What is your opinion about rear drum brakes?

Asked on 27 April 2011 by FordFocusMk3

Answered by Honest John
Rear brakes are only responsible for about 5% of braking. Their effect is more to balance the braking of the car than to actually stop it. And drums allow much more effective parking brakes than discs.

From which small car to buy at which price point to the best UK-built cars, our Top 10s have the lot. Click now for your shortlist.

Unsure of what to buy? Our Top 10s are here to help you....
Similar questions
I have just bought an automatic Lexus RX 300 (2003, facelift, 5-speed auto). In many ways a silly concept, I am delighted with it, because the large number of speedbumps on our road (I live opposite a...
My Subaru Outback is in need of a braking overhaul. On their websites I can see pads and discs from Brembo, Pagid, and Delphi, but I can't find a supplier. One of the local garages will offer Delphi...
When starting my 2017 MG GS from cold the rear pads do not seem to disengage fully resulting in a rubbing/grinding noise until they warm up. I have told I now have excessive pitting on my disks. Can I...
Related models
Refined and upmarket feel to the cabin. Comfortable and quiet on the move. More efficient petrol and diesel engines. Better ride quality. Excellent £750 Driver Assist Pack.