EXPERT IN AUTO PARTS
2 December 2025 (updated) Table of Contents
First of all, let’s look at the similarities between the two. They both operate on the same basic principle: the brakes slow the car wheels down by turning kinetic energy into heat through friction. The key difference lies in how the components create friction and their braking efficiency.
The first drum brakes were patented in 1902 by French automotive pioneer Louis Renault. They laid the foundations for today’s modern braking systems and were the main type of brake for cars until disc brakes were popularised in the mid 1950s. In a modern car front and rear drum brake components are as follows (though drum brakes are generally only used on the rear axle): hydraulic wheel cylinders, brake shoes, springs, and the brake drum. When you press the brake pedal, two brake shoes are pushed against the inner surface of the rotating drum by the wheel cylinders, slowing the vehicle’s momentum. Once the brakes are released, the retracting springs draw the shoes away from the drum.
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BREMBO Brake disc
295x28mm, 5, perforated/vented
Article number: 09.B436.51
£52.99
Price per item
£105.98 / Price per 2 items
price incl. 20% VAT, excl. delivery costs
BREMBO Brake disc
355x32mm, 5, perforated/vented, two-part brake disc, Aluminium Brake Disc Hub
Article number: 09.A804.33
£297.00
Price per item
£594.00 / Price per 2 items
price incl. 20% VAT, free delivery
BREMBO Brake disc
390x36mm, 5, internally vented, slotted/perforated, two-part brake disc, Aluminium Brake Disc Hub
Article number: 09.9313.33
£409.50
Price per item
£819.00 / Price per 2 items
price incl. 20% VAT, free delivery
BREMBO Brake disc
249x10mm, 5, solid
Article number: 08.C659.11
£29.49
Price per item
£58.98 / Price per 2 items
price incl. 20% VAT, excl. delivery costs
BREMBO Brake disc
360x36mm, 5, perforated/vented
Article number: 09.A819.11
£93.49
Price per item
£186.98 / Price per 2 items
price incl. 20% VAT, free delivery
Instead of housing the parts of car brakes inside a metal drum, disc brakes work using a slim metal disc and calipers containing brake pads and pistons. When you engage the brakes, the main hydraulic cylinder pushes hydraulic fluid through the brake lines, actuating the pistons. The pistons press the friction pads against the rotating metal discs, creating friction and forcing the discs and wheels to slow down. Discs have become the standard in the car industry due to their efficiency and heat dissipation advantages. However, most manufacturers still use a combination of the two types – discs on the front axle and brake drums at the rear.
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Disc brakes use calipers to squeeze pads against a rotating disc attached to the wheel, while drum brakes have brake shoes that press outward against the inside of a drum. Disc brakes provide better heat dissipation and stopping power, whereas drum brakes are more cost-effective and potentially longer lasting in certain conditions.
This combination balances performance and cost. Since 70–80% of braking occurs at the front wheels during deceleration, disc brakes are used there for superior stopping power. Drum brakes are sufficient for rear wheels where less braking force is needed, and they're more cost-effective while also functioning well as parking brakes.
Brake pads typically need replacement every 30,000 to 70,000 miles, while brake shoes can last 40,000 to 150,000 miles depending on driving conditions. Have your brakes inspected annually or if you notice symptoms like squealing or reduced stopping power. AUTODOC mechanics recommend replacing disc brake pads when they're worn to about 3–4mm thickness and drum brake shoes when the friction material is less than 2mm.
Electric vehicles use a hybrid system combining traditional friction brakes with regenerative braking. When braking, the electric motor works in reverse, converting kinetic energy into electrical energy to recharge the battery. This regenerative system handles much of the everyday braking, reducing wear on conventional components and extending their lifespan, though they still require periodic maintenance.
Disc brake replacement typically costs £150 to £400 per axle, including new pads, rotors, and labour. Drum brake replacement usually runs £120 to £350 per axle for new shoes, hardware, and labour. While drum brakes often have a lower initial cost, disc brakes may offer better long-term value.
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BREMBO Brake drum
203,2mm
Article number: 14.A854.10
£20.99
Price per item
£41.98 / Price per 2 items
price incl. 20% VAT, excl. delivery costs
BREMBO Brake disc
230x9mm, 5, solid
Article number: 08.7165.11
£22.99
Price per item
£45.98 / Price per 2 items
price incl. 20% VAT, excl. delivery costs
Article number: 08.3947.24
£26.99
Price per item
£53.98 / Price per 2 items
price incl. 20% VAT, excl. delivery costs
BREMBO Brake disc
320x20mm, 5, internally vented
Article number: 09.C938.11
£51.99
Price per item
£103.98 / Price per 2 items
price incl. 20% VAT, excl. delivery costs
BREMBO Brake disc
360x36mm, 5, internally vented, slotted/perforated, two-part brake disc, Aluminium Brake Disc Hub
Article number: 09.9764.23
£400.00
Price per item
£800.00 / Price per 2 items
price incl. 20% VAT, free delivery
Both drum and disc brakes have their place in modern vehicles, with each offering distinct advantages. While disc brakes provide superior stopping power, heat dissipation, and performance in varied conditions, drum brakes remain cost-effective and durable for less demanding applications. Many modern vehicles strike an optimal balance with disc brakes at the front and drum brakes at the rear. When maintaining your vehicle, understanding these differences can help you make informed decisions about service intervals and potential upgrades. Regardless of which braking system your vehicle uses, regular inspection and maintenance are essential for your safety on the road. Ultimately, the better system for you depends on your specific vehicle requirements and driving habits.
If you notice squealing or grinding sounds when braking or find it difficult to maintain control of the vehicle, it could be time to replace the braking components. Whether you’re looking for BMW brake discs or brake drum parts for your Renault, you can find braking system parts at very low prices online.
A useful video on this topic:
BOSCH Brake disc
318x30mm, 5x112, Vented
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BREMBO Brake disc
330x34mm, 5, perforated/vented
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BREMBO Brake disc
260x10mm, 4, solid
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BREMBO Brake disc
330x26mm, 5, perforated/vented
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BREMBO Brake disc
330x28mm, 5, perforated/vented
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SHW Performance Brake disc
Front Axle, 365x34mm, internally vented, two-part brake disc, perforated/nubby
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BOSCH Brake disc
260x8mm, 5x114,3, solid
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ATE Brake disc
330,0x20,0mm, 5x120,0, two-part brake disc, Vented
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BREMBO Brake disc
365x34mm, 5, perforated/vented, two-part brake disc, Aluminium Brake Disc Hub
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BREMBO Brake disc
330x26mm, 5, internally vented, slotted/perforated
Sold by AUTODOC
