Replacing the Rear Brake Drums on Your 2016-2023 Mazda 2
Everything North American owners need to know about keeping the rear brakes on their Mazda 2 working like new.
- The 2016-2023 Mazda 2 is the same as the 2016 Scion iA and 2017-2020 Toyota Yaris in the US; parts are interchangeable.
- Always replace brake drums and shoes in pairs to ensure safe, even braking.
- Symptoms of failure include grinding noises, a vibrating pedal, or a weak parking brake.
- Quality aftermarket brands like Centric and Dynamic Friction offer performance similar to OEM for a fraction of the price.
Is This Guide For My Car?
This guide is for the 2016-2023 Mazda 2. In North America, this car was sold as the Mazda 2 in Canada and Mexico. In the United States, it was not sold as a Mazda. Instead, it was sold as the Scion iA (2016), Toyota Yaris iA (2017-2018), and Toyota Yaris (2019-2020). If you own one of these Toyota models, these brake drums will also fit your car.
Symptoms of a Worn Brake Drum
Brake drums and the shoes inside them wear out over time. Here are the common signs that you need to inspect your rear brakes:
- Scraping or Grinding Noises: A loud scraping sound when you brake usually means the brake shoes have worn down completely, and metal is grinding against the drum.
- Vibrating Brake Pedal: If you feel a pulsing or vibration in the brake pedal, the drum may be warped or 'out-of-round'. This prevents the brake shoes from applying pressure evenly.
- Loose Parking Brake: If your parking brake handle pulls up higher than usual or doesn't hold the car securely on a hill, 🎬 See how to properly adjust your rear drum brakes it's a sign of worn drums or shoes.
- Reduced Stopping Power: If your car takes longer to stop than it used to, your rear brakes may not be doing their share of the work.
Known Issues for This Vehicle
While no major recalls for brake drums exist in North America, some related issues have been noted. A Technical Service Bulletin (TSB T-SB-0007-20) was issued for the Toyota Yaris iA for a squealing noise from the rear brakes, fixed by applying more grease at contact points. Additionally, Australian recalls were issued for potential parking brake failure (2016-2018 models) and rusting brake hose clips (2016-2017 models), highlighting the importance of inspecting the entire rear brake system.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Brake Drum
You don't need to buy an expensive OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) part from the dealer. Aftermarket brands offer good quality at a better price. Here’s a look at the brands available for your Mazda 2.
Brand Tiers
Tier 1: Quality Aftermarket (Centric, Dynamic Friction)
- Centric: A well-respected brand known for making parts that fit and perform like the original. They offer good quality materials and are a reliable choice for a daily driver. While rare quality control issues can occur with any brand, Centric is generally a solid option.
- Dynamic Friction (DFC): Often considered an upgrade over stock parts, DFC offers strong, consistent performance. User reviews are positive, citing good value and even acceptable performance for spirited driving.
Tier 2: Service Grade (Raybestos, Pronto)
- Raybestos: A long-established brand that offers dependable, budget-friendly parts. Their coated 'Element3' line is often recommended to prevent rust. However, some users have reported inconsistent quality on their base-level parts.
- Pronto: This is typically a store-brand or entry-level option. While information is limited, they are designed to be a functional, low-cost replacement.
Pro Tip: Replace in Pairs
Always replace brake drums and shoes on both sides of the axle at the same time. This ensures even braking performance and prevents the car from pulling to one side. It's also a good idea to buy a 'brake kit' that includes new springs and hardware, as the old parts can get rusty and weak.
Aftermarket vs. OEM Brake Drums
For a part like a brake drum on a Mazda 2, a quality aftermarket option from a brand like Centric or Dynamic Friction will perform just as well as the OEM part for everyday driving. The main difference is cost. OEM drums can cost two to three times more than aftermarket versions. Aftermarket brands often use the same G3000-grade iron and are built to the same factory specifications.
| Part Type | Price Range (Per Drum) |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket | $42.28 - $62.68 |
| New OEM | $120 - $150 |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to replace my brake shoes with the drums?
Yes. You should always install new brake shoes when you replace the drums. The old shoes have worn into a pattern matching the old drums and won't make proper contact with the new, smooth surface. This will reduce braking performance.
Can I install brake drums myself?
If you have experience with brake work and the right tools, this is a manageable DIY job. However, drum brakes have many small springs and clips that can be tricky. If you are not confident, it's best to have a professional mechanic do the work.
🎬 Watch this step-by-step guide to replacing your drum brakesWhat does 'machining' a brake drum mean?
Machining (or 'turning') is when a thin layer of metal is shaved off the inside of the drum to make it smooth again. This can fix vibrations from warped drums. However, drums have a minimum thickness and can't always be machined. With the low cost of new aftermarket drums, replacement is often the better and safer option.
Why do my new brakes squeal?
New brakes can sometimes squeal during the 'bed-in' period as the shoes and drums create a matched surface. As noted in a TSB for the Yaris iA, squealing can also be caused by a lack of grease on the brake shoe contact points 🎬 Watch: How to fix squeaky brakes on a Scion iA or Yaris on the backing plate. If the noise continues after a few hundred miles, have them inspected.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: D351-26-251A
Drum Diameter: 200mm, Bolt Pattern: 4x100mm.
We Have This Part in Stock
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.
- Mazda 2: