What is a brake backing plate?
Drum braking systems are used as the rear brakes in many modern cars as well as the front brakes in larger trucks and older cars. The backing plate forms a base or foundation for a drum brake, allowing it to slow your car down effectively.
Brake backing plates are usually made of durable steel. Mounted to the backing plate is the wheel cylinder, which has the brake shoe attached to it. Without a backing plate, the rest of the braking system would have nothing to grip onto.
Brake backing plates usually last for a very long time. However, rust and damage can cause them to become damaged and not function correctly. During a Warrant of Fitness, the inspector will examine your car’s backing plates. If there are signs of rust, cracks or deformation, the plate may need to be replaced in order to pass its Warrant of Fitness.
Learn more about brake WOF requirements in New Zealand
When should the brake backing plates be replaced?
In many cases, the backing plates on your drum brakes will last the life of the vehicle. However, rust or damage to other components can increase wear on the plates.
The best time to have brake backing plates replaced is when you start to notice symptoms, or when a mechanic point the problem out to you. The longer the damage to the plates is ignored, the worse it can become. Eventually, the backing plate may be unable to support the rest of the braking system and this can greatly affect your car’s safety.
Symptoms of worn brake backing plates:
- Grinding noises – The backing plates can produce loud grinding noises when they are damaged. This is often caused by the abnormalities or warping which cause other parts to grind against the plate. This results in increased friction, which can cause wear to multiple parts.
- Uneven braking – Uneven braking occurs when one side of your car generates more brake pressure than the other. As a result, the car will often pull to one side when brakes are applied.
- Brakes loose or rattling – A damaged backing plate can cause the brake shoe or wheel cylinder to become loose. This can result in audible shaking from the corresponding wheel.
- Increased stopping distance – As well as causing rattling, a loose brake shoe will result in reduced stopping distance, which can affect the safety of your car.
Brake Backing Plate Replacement in Hamilton
Have you failed your Warrant of Fitness due to a damaged brake backing plate? Or have you noticed problems with the condition and stability of the plate while driving? Either way, we’re here to help you out! At Grimmer Motors, we can remove and replace your car’s brake backing plate. This will allow for smoother, more controlled braking as well as improved safety.
For brake backing plate replacement services in Hamilton, contact Grimmer Motors today!