Q: Drum brakes not working

asked by on February 02, 2016

I have a 1968 Buick Electra with drum brakes. The car doesn't want to stop when I press the brake pedal, but the brakes don't make any squeaking sound like they do when they are bad. I probably need them replaced, and maybe even the master cylinder, but I am unsure at this time.

Brake System Inspection $94.99 - $114.99 Get a Quote

Hi. On older vehicles such as yours brakes are crucial due to the mass of the car. Drum brakes are known to last longer than disc brakes but do not hold the same stopping power and cooling ability. Wheel cycling ears and master cylinders are a big cause of brake power loss. It is quite possible can be that you should look into getting the brakes changed. I would recommend having a certified mechanic, such as one from YourMechanic, to inspect your brake system to see what repairs needs to be completed.

The statements expressed above are only for informational purposes and should be independently verified. Please see our terms of service for more details

Get an instant quote for your car

Our certified mechanics come to you ・Backed by 12-month, 12,000-mile guarantee・Fair and transparent pricing


Experienced Mechanic?

Earn up to $70/hr

What others are asking

Code P1754
When you get this code on your vehicle it can be the first sign of an internal transmission failure. I would check the transmission fluid first. If it is really dark or dirty then there is an internal failure. If...
failed emission test at Division of motor Vehicle
Hey there. The three different Check Engine codes (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/check-engine-light-is-on-inspection) you mentioned (P0420 (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/p0420-obd-ii-trouble-code-catalyst-system-efficiency-below-threshold-bank-1-by-jamahl-walker), P0133 (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/p0133-obd-ii-trouble-code-o2-sensor-circuit-slow-response-bank-1-sensor-1-by-blake-griffin), and P0171 (https://www.yourmechanic.com/article/p0171-obd-ii-trouble-code-system-too-lean-bank-1-by-andrew-quinn)) would need to be diagnosed first to see why they are stored in computer memory. You will need the mechanic clear the...
AC problems - 2010 Honda CR-V
Unfortunately, since many hands have been on the car opening and closing a sealed system, it is hard to say what your starting point is "now". That is, if in the course of discharging and charging the system, moisture was...
Front seal leak in minivan's transmission - 1997 Ford Aerostar
Hello. It sounds like your transmission either did not get completely full of fluid after the service or it is leaking fluid again. To check the transmission fluid, start the car and leave it in park. Next pull out the...
I just bought a used 99 Honda Accord V-6 2-door and I noticed steam or smoke coming from under the hood, at a drive thru
Hello, thanks for writing in about your 1999 Honda Accord. From what you've described, I think your issue is fairly simple. You probably just need a new thermostat (https://www.yourmechanic.com/services/thermostat-replacement). However, to avoid any unnecessary repairs, I would recommend having one...
There is no heat blowing out of the inside vents.
No heat from the vents can be caused by a few different things. A few things I would check are the thermostat and heater control valve, as these are two components that control flow to the heater. If the thermostat...
Pressing the gas pedal and not getting the desired output
It may not have anything to do with your valve adjustment. Your car is almost 30 years old so it could have any number of problems. I would begin by checking for air leaks. Look at all of the hoses...
Car spotters when I engaged to drive and had a whisal sound
There is likely a problem in the fuel, ignition, or air induction systems. When you put the car in drive, you are "loading" the engine and obviously due to some fault the engine lacks sufficient power at that point to...
How to fix a locked brake
To fix something like this, the caliper (particularly the piston in the caliper bore) and sliding pins that connect to the brake torque plate should be carefully inspected. Those parts may be sticking. Also, the brake pads could be sticking...

Related articles

What Is Brake Dust?
It's It's time to wash the car, but when you get to the wheels they are covered by a hard to remove gray dust. Even after you clean it off, it comes back quickly. Welcome to the world of brake...
Is it Safe to Drive With Brake Warning Light On?
The The brakes on your vehicle allow you to stop safely, especially in emergency situations. If your Brake Warning Light comes on, you should take notice and contact your mechanic immediately. Brakes are the most important safety feature on your...
What Does the Brake System (Hand Brake, Parking Brake) Warning Light Mean?
When the brake system warning light is on, your brakes may not work properly. The parking brake may be engaged, or there is a low fluid level.