A Guide to Replacing Rear Drum Brake Shoes on a 2012-2018 Ford Focus
Keep your Focus stopping safely by understanding when and how to replace your rear drum brake shoes.
- Only base S and SE trims of the 2012-2018 Focus typically have rear drum brakes.
- Always replace brake shoes and hardware in pairs for both rear wheels to ensure safe, even braking.
- A weak parking brake is a key symptom of worn rear brake shoes.
- High-quality aftermarket brands like Wagner, Bendix, and Centric are reliable alternatives to more expensive OEM Motorcraft parts.
Is It Time for New Rear Brake Shoes?
The rear drum brakes on your Ford Focus do less of the work than the front disc brakes, so the shoes tend to last a long time, sometimes over 100,000 miles. However, they do wear out and require inspection and replacement. 🎬 See how to inspect your rear drum brakes and shoes. Ignoring the symptoms can lead to reduced braking performance and potential damage to other components like the brake drums.
Symptoms of Worn Drum Brake Shoes
- Scraping or Grinding Noises: A metallic scraping sound from the rear wheels when you brake is a classic sign that the friction material is gone and the metal shoe is grinding against the drum.
- Weak or Loose Parking Brake: If you have to pull the handbrake lever higher than usual, or the car still rolls slightly when parked, the shoes may be too worn to hold effectively.
- Longer Stopping Distance: If your car takes longer to stop than it used to, worn rear shoes could be a contributing factor, reducing overall braking efficiency. 🎬 Watch: 5 bad brake drum symptoms and replacement tips.
- Spongy or Soft Brake Pedal: As shoes wear, the distance they have to travel to contact the drum increases. This can sometimes result in a brake pedal that feels soft or spongy when you press it.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Brake Shoes
When shopping for new drum brake shoes for your Focus, you'll find several brands. Not all aftermarket parts are created equal, but for a common part like this, many offer quality and value comparable to the original factory parts.
OEM Parts: The original parts for your Focus are made by Motorcraft. Choosing Motorcraft ensures you get the exact same part that your car was built with. They are a reliable, high-quality choice, though often at a higher price.
Premium Aftermarket Brands: Brands like Wagner Brakes and Bendix have a long-standing reputation for producing high-quality brake components that meet or exceed OEM standards. They are an excellent choice for a reliable, long-lasting repair and are often recommended by professional mechanics.
Standard Aftermarket Brands: Centric and Powerstop offer a good balance of quality and price. Centric is known for providing solid, dependable parts, while Powerstop is often associated with performance-oriented kits but also provides standard replacement options. These are great all-around choices for daily driving.
Pro Tip: Don't Forget the Hardware!
The springs, clips, and adjusters inside your brake drums work hard and can weaken or seize over time. It is highly recommended to replace the brake hardware when you replace the shoes. Many shoe sets come with a new hardware kit included, or you can purchase one separately. This ensures the self-adjusting mechanism works correctly and prevents noises.
🎬 Follow this step-by-step DIY guide to replace your rear brakes.Known Issues, Recalls, and Service Bulletins
A search of the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) database and other public records did not reveal any specific recalls or widespread technical service bulletins (TSBs) for the drum brake shoes on the 2012-2018 Ford Focus. While other recalls exist for the Focus, such as for fuel tank issues and door latches, the rear drum brake assembly has proven to be reliable.
Cost of Replacing Ford Focus Drum Brake Shoes
| Part Type | Estimated Part Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Brake Shoes | $45 - $92 |
| New OEM (Motorcraft) Brake Shoes | $60 - $110 |
| Shop Labor | $150 - $250 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to replace the brake drums at the same time?
Not always, but it's essential to inspect them. If the inside surface of the drum is smooth and within the maximum diameter specification (stamped on the drum itself), you can reuse it. However, if it has deep grooves, scoring, or a large lip on the edge, it should be replaced to ensure proper performance and prevent noise.
Should I replace shoes on both sides?
Yes, absolutely. Brake shoes must always be replaced in pairs (both rear wheels) to ensure even braking performance. Uneven brakes can cause the car to pull to one side when stopping.
What is the break-in procedure for new brake shoes?
After installation, it's important to help the new shoes conform to the shape of the drums. A common method is to find a safe, empty area and perform several slow to moderate stops. Also, driving in reverse and gently applying the brakes can help the self-adjusters set correctly. Before driving, pump the brake pedal several times until it feels firm.
Can I upgrade my rear drum brakes to disc brakes?
Yes, it is possible as higher-trim Focus models came with rear disc brakes. However, this is a complex and expensive conversion that involves replacing the entire rear brake assembly, including calipers, rotors, brake lines, and potentially the parking brake cables and other components. For most drivers, maintaining the original drum brake system is the most practical and cost-effective option.
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Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: CN1Z-2200-A BV6Z-2200-B
Fits models with rear drum brakes only. Typically 200mm or 228mm depending on specific model configuration. Always verify fitment.
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The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Ford Focus:
- 🎬 Helpful Videos
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Is It Time for New Rear Brake Shoes?
- Symptoms of Worn Drum Brake Shoes
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Brake Shoes
- Pro Tip: Don't Forget the Hardware!
- Known Issues, Recalls, and Service Bulletins
- Cost of Replacing Ford Focus Drum Brake Shoes
- Frequently Asked Questions
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