Best Car Brake Drums of 2026

Robert Reyes Avatar
Robert Reyes
Last Updated: Jan 9, 2026

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Car brake drums are an essential component of a vehicle's braking system. They are typically made of cast iron and are designed to work with the brake shoes to slow down or stop the car. Brake drums are typically found on the rear wheels of a car and are responsible for converting the kinetic energy of the car into thermal energy through friction. This process helps to slow down the car and prevent accidents. Brake drums should be inspected regularly and replaced when necessary to ensure the safety of the driver and passengers.

At a Glance: Our Top Picks

ACDelco Professional 18B80 Rear Brake Drum Cover #TOP 1
ACDelco Professional 18B80 Rear Brake Drum
ftb score rating icon 9.9
Detroit Axle - Rear Brake Drums for 2002-2008 Toyota Corolla Cover #TOP 2
Detroit Axle - Rear Brake Drums for 2002-2008 Toyota Corolla
ftb score rating icon 9.8
Detroit Axle Rear Brake Kit for 2006-2015 Honda Civic L4 1.8L Cover #TOP 3
Detroit Axle Rear Brake Kit for 2006-2015 Honda Civic L4 1.8L
ftb score rating icon 9.6

Top 10 Car Brake Drums

#TOP 1

ACDelco Professional 18B80 Rear Brake Drum

18B80
ACDelco Professional 18B80 Rear Brake Drum Cover
ACDelco Gold 18B80 (19171800) Rear Brake Drum

The ACDelco Professional 18B80 Rear Brake Drum is a reliable and high-quality product that follows the original manufacturers' designs to reduce noise and vibration while dispersing heat. The brake drum is inspected for balance, resulting in smooth brake operation, and is independently tested for Noise/Vibration/Harshness (NVH) and durability/wear. The rust-preventative coating provides superior durability and corrosion protection.

What We Like
Follows original manufacturers' designs to prolong pad and rotor life
Inspected for balance resulting in smooth brake operation and noise reduction
Independently tested for NVH and durability/wear resulting in high-quality and reliable products
Provides corrosion protection for superior durability with rust-preventative coating
#TOP 2

Detroit Axle - Rear Brake Drums for 2002-2008 Toyota Corolla

6PR1200911
Detroit Axle - Rear Brake Drums for 2002-2008 Toyota Corolla Cover
Detroit Axle - Rear Brake Kit for 02-08 Toyota Corolla Replacement Brake Drums 2002 2003 2004 2005 2006 2007 2008 Semi-metallic Brakes Shoes

This set is a replacement for 2002-2008 Toyota Corolla models built in North America after 4/2002. It includes two rear brake drums, two ceramic brake shoes, and two brake cleaner and fluid kits. The brake drums are built to exceed OEM specifications and have the proper fit and finish required for superior stopping power. They also undergo impact, wear, and fatigue testing to help ensure quality and durability.

What We Like
Comes with ceramic brake shoes
Brake drums exceed OEM specification
Proper fit and finish for superior stopping power
#TOP 3

Detroit Axle Rear Brake Kit for 2006-2015 Honda Civic L4 1.8L

6PR1201370
Detroit Axle Rear Brake Kit for 2006-2015 Honda Civic L4 1.8L Cover
Detroit Axle - Rear Brake Kit for L4 1.8L 2006-2015 Honda Civic Brake Drums Brakes Shoes 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 Replacement: 9.84" inch Drums

The Detroit Axle Brake Kit is designed to fit various 2006-2015 Honda Civic models with 1.8L L4 engines and rear drum brakes. This kit includes everything you need for a reliable brake replacement: two rear brake drums, semi-metallic brake shoes, and brake cleaner plus fluid, making the installation straightforward and convenient. The brake components are built to meet or exceed original equipment manufacturer (OEM) standards, ensuring you get strong and consistent stopping power for safer driving. Whether you’re replacing worn parts or upgrading, this kit helps maintain your vehicle’s braking performance with confidence.

What We Like
Complete brake kit
OEM-quality fit and finish
Includes brake cleaner and fluid
Compatible with multiple model years
#TOP 4

ACDelco Professional Rear Brake Drum

18B555
ACDelco Professional Rear Brake Drum Cover
ACDelco Gold 18B555 (19183586) Rear Brake Drum

The ACDelco Professional Rear Brake Drum is a high-quality and reliable product inspected for balance to ensure smooth brake operation and noise reduction. Tested for durability/wear and Noise/Vibration/Harshness (NVH), it follows original manufacturers' designs for dispersing heat, which prolongs pad and rotor life while reducing noise and vibration. The rust-preventative coating provides corrosion protection for superior durability.

What We Like
Inspected for balance to ensure smooth brake operation and noise reduction
Follows original manufacturers' designs for dispersing heat which prolongs pad and rotor life while reducing noise and vibration
Rust-preventative coating provides corrosion protection for superior durability
#TOP 5

ACDelco Professional Brake Drum

18B599
ACDelco Professional Brake Drum Cover
ACDelco Gold 18B599 (19292981) Rear Brake Drum

The ACDelco Professional 18B599 Rear Brake Drum is a high-quality and reliable product that has been inspected for balance, independently tested for noise/vibration/harshness (NVH) and durability/wear, and follows original manufacturers' designs for heat dispersal to prolong pad and rotor life while reducing noise and vibration. Its rust-preventative coating provides superior corrosion protection, ensuring its durability.

What We Like
Smooth brake operation and noise reduction due to balance inspection
High quality and reliable due to independent testing and adherence to original manufacturers' designs
Prolongs pad and rotor life while reducing noise and vibration due to heat dispersal design
Superior durability due to rust-preventative coating
#TOP 6

ACDelco Professional 18B232 Rear Brake Drum

18B232
ACDelco Professional 18B232 Rear Brake Drum Cover
ACDelco Gold 18B232 (19171628) Rear Brake Drum

The ACDelco Professional 18B232 Rear Brake Drum is a high-quality and reliable car brake drum that is inspected for balance to reduce noise and ensure smooth operation. It follows the original manufacturers' designs for dispersing heat, which helps to prolong the life of pads and rotors while reducing noise and vibration. Additionally, it has a rust-preventative coating that provides corrosion protection for superior durability. It has undergone independent testing, including D3EA, NVH, and durability/wear testing, resulting in a product that is of top-notch quality.

What We Like
Inspected for balance to reduce noise and ensure smooth operation
Follows original manufacturers' designs to help prolong life of pads and rotors while reducing noise and vibration
Rust-preventative coating provides superior durability and corrosion protection
#TOP 7

Raybestos R-Line Rear Disc Brake Rotor

980155R
Multi
One Size
Raybestos R-Line Rear Disc Brake Rotor Cover
Raybestos R-Line Automotive Replacement Rear Disc Brake Rotor for Select Nissan Murano/Pathfinder/Quest, Infiniti Q50/FX35/Q60 (980155R)

The Raybestos R-Line Rotor is designed to fit a range of Nissan and Infiniti models, ensuring you get the right part for your vehicle. It meets strict SAE standards for strength, so you can count on its durability and long service life. The rotor is made to reduce vibration and brake noise by minimizing lateral runout and thickness differences, which means smoother braking and less wear on your brake pads. Plus, it’s balanced precisely to help you avoid pedal pulsation and enjoy a more comfortable driving experience. This rotor offers reliable, smooth stopping power for your car.

What We Like
Wide vehicle compatibility
High tensile strength
Reduced brake noise
Minimized vibration
Smoother braking
#TOP 8

10L0L 19186G1P EZGO TXT Electric Brake Drum/Hub

19186G1
Black 1-pack
10L0L 19186G1P EZGO TXT Electric Brake Drum/Hub Cover
10L0L 19186G1P Brake Drum/Hub Assembly (Electric) for EZGO TXT

The 10L0L EZGO Brake Drum is designed for use with 1982 and newer E-Z-GO electric vehicles, as well as older 2-cycle gas models from 1982 to 1993. It features a star spline hub and rear axle shaft that must fit snugly together to avoid early wear, so if one part is damaged, it's best to replace both. This model updates earlier versions by using a star spline instead of a straight key, which improves the connection's durability. The hub has a 3/4-inch center hole with 24 teeth on the star spline, giving you a secure and reliable fit. Note that this brake drum does not work with keyed axle or hub setups.

What We Like
Wide vehicle compatibility
Star spline design
Tight hub and axle fit
Secure 24-tooth spline
#TOP 9

Detroit Axle Rear Brake Kit for Dodge & Jeep

6PR1200728
Detroit Axle Rear Brake Kit for Dodge & Jeep Cover
Detroit Axle - Rear Brake Kit for Dodge Avenger Caliber Chrysler Sebring Jeep Compass Patriot, Disc Brakes Drums Semi-metallic Brake Shoes Replacement

The Detroit Axle Brake Kit is designed to fit various Dodge and Jeep models with rear drum brakes, including the Chrysler Sebring, Dodge Avenger, Caliber, Jeep Compass, and Patriot. This kit includes two disc brake drums, semi-metallic brake shoes, and brake cleaner with fluid, providing everything you need for a complete rear brake replacement. The brake rotors are crafted to surpass original equipment standards, ensuring a precise fit and excellent stopping power for your vehicle. Plus, the components undergo rigorous impact, wear, and fatigue testing to guarantee long-lasting durability and reliable performance, giving you peace of mind on the road.

What We Like
Complete brake kit
Exceeds OEM specifications
Durability tested
Wide vehicle compatibility
Includes brake cleaner and fluid
#TOP 10

E-Z-GO Rear Brake Drum Assembly Long Bolt

21807G2
Black
E-Z-GO Rear Brake Drum Assembly Long Bolt Cover
E-Z-GO Rear Brake Drum Assembly (Long Bolt)

The E-Z-GO Brake Drum is designed for 1996 and newer gas-powered E-Z-GO 4-cycle vehicles, including the ST 350 series, making it a reliable replacement part for these models. Its 1 5/16-inch center hole and internal 30-tooth spline ensure a secure fit on the axle, held firmly by a strong nut and washer, giving you confidence in its durability. This brake drum is specifically made for gas vehicles and will not work on electric models except for 2009 ones, so you can avoid compatibility issues. Additionally, it's not interchangeable with earlier 2-cycle gas models or electric versions, helping you choose the right part for your vehicle easily.

What We Like
Wide compatibility with gas 4-cycle models
Secure fit with 30-tooth spline design
Durable mounting hardware included
Clear compatibility guidelines
Buying Guide Image

A Guide to Selecting the Best Car Brake Drums for Your Car

Introduction

When it comes to choosing the right brake drums for your car, there are a few key factors to consider. In this article, we'll explore the different types of brake drums available, as well as the factors you should consider when making your decision.

Types of Brake Drums

There are two main types of brake drums: cast iron and composite. Cast iron brake drums are the more traditional option and are known for their durability and longevity. Composite brake drums, on the other hand, are made from a blend of materials such as fiberglass, carbon fiber, and other composites. These brake drums are lighter and more heat-resistant than cast iron drums, but are not as durable.

Choosing the Right Size

One of the most important factors to consider when choosing brake drums is the size. It's important to choose brake drums that are the same size as the ones that came with your car. This will ensure that they fit properly and provide the necessary stopping power.

Compatibility with Other Brake Components

Another important factor to consider is compatibility with other brake components. Your brake drums should be compatible with your brake pads, shoes, and other components. This will ensure that they work together effectively to provide optimal stopping power.

Brand and Price

When it comes to choosing brake drums, brand and price are also important considerations. It's important to choose a reputable brand with a good track record of quality and reliability. In terms of price, it's important to find a balance between cost and quality. Cheaper brake drums may not be as reliable or long-lasting, while more expensive ones may not offer much in terms of additional performance or longevity.

Conclusion

In conclusion, there are several key factors to consider when choosing the right brake drums for your car. These include the type of brake drum, the size, compatibility with other brake components, brand, and price. By taking these factors into account, you can choose the best brake drums for your car and ensure that they provide the stopping power and reliability you need.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. How much does it cost to replace a drum on a brake?

The average cost of replacing a brake drum ranges from $275 to $399 per axle, depending on the vehicle type and the repair shop you choose.

2. What are the signs of a bad brake drum?

Some signs of a bad brake drum include scraping or grinding noise, poor braking performance, low brake pedal, loose parking brake, brake pedal vibrations, and a soft or spongy brake pedal.

3. Can you drive with bad drums?

It is not safe to drive with worn or damaged brake drums. If your car is having trouble braking, it is recommended to stop driving it and have it towed to a repair shop for immediate attention.

4. What causes brake drums to go bad?

Brake drums can go bad due to excessive wear caused by factors such as aggressive braking, heavy loads, or worn-out brake shoes. Signs of excessive wear on brake drums include deep grooves, rough surfaces, or a significant decrease in braking performance.

5. What happens if drum brakes fail?

One of the first symptoms of failing drum brakes is an unusual brake pedal feel, such as vibrations or shuddering. Worn brake drums can cause these symptoms, affecting the braking performance of the vehicle.

6. When should drum brakes be replaced?

Drum brakes should be replaced if you notice noises from the vehicle, loose parking brakes, trouble stopping the vehicle, or brake pedal vibrations. These signs indicate the need for a drum brake replacement.

7. Are brake drums hard to replace?

Replacing drum brakes is not difficult, although it requires a few specialized tools. However, the process is generally straightforward, and the necessary tools are inexpensive.

8. What do failing drum brakes sound like?

Failing drum brakes may produce a scraping or scratching sound when the brakes are applied. This could indicate severe wear on the brake shoes as well, requiring a closer inspection to determine the exact cause of the noise.

Editor's Notes

During our car brake drum research, we found 24 car brake drum products and shortlisted 10 quality products. We collected and analyzed 12,267 customer reviews through our big data system to write the car brake drums list. We found that most customers choose car brake drums with an average price of $56.39.

The car brake drums are available for purchase. We have researched hundreds of brands and picked the top brands of car brake drums, including ACDelco, Detroit Axle, Raybestos, 10L0L, E-Z-GO. The seller of top 1 product has received honest feedback from 384 consumers with an average rating of 4.7.

Written by
Robert Reyes Avatar

Robert Reyes is a dedicated writer from San Francisco with a bachelor of degree in mechanics and a bachelor of degree in marketing. He focuses on making some complicated topics simple and enjoys explaining complex and technical things in an easy-to-understand way.