Rear Drum Brake Service and Inspection Checklist

This rear drum brake service and inspection checklist ensures complete drum brake evaluation and service per FMVSS 105 brake system requirements. Drum brakes are commonly overlooked during routine maintenance because they are hidden from view. Seized self-adjusters, leaking wheel cylinders, and glazed linings progressively reduce braking effectiveness without obvious warning signs until brake fade or pulling occurs under hard braking.

Industry: Automotive Service
Frequency: Every 25,000-40,000 Miles / Per Brake Inspection
Estimated Time: 45-75 minutes
Role: ASE A5-Certified Brake Technician
Total Items: 28
Compliance: FMVSS 105 (Hydraulic and Electric Brake Systems), FMVSS 135 (Light Vehicle Brake Systems), ASE A5 Brake Systems Certification, OSHA 29 CFR 1910.178 Lift Safety, OEM Drum Brake Specifications

Drum Measurement and Condition

Measure drum diameter to determine if resurfacing or replacement is required.

Drum inside diameter measured at multiple points with drum micrometer?
Drum diameter within safe resurfacing limit (will not exceed discard diameter after machining)?
No hard spots or heat cracks visible on drum friction surface?
Drum out-of-round within OEM specification (typically under 0.006 inch)?
Drum surface machined to smooth finish before installing new shoes?

Brake Shoes, Linings, and Hardware

Inspect shoes and all hardware before reassembly.

Brake lining thickness measured and above minimum (typically 1/16 inch / 1.5mm)?
Linings free of grease, brake fluid, or oil contamination?
Brake shoe return springs replaced (springs fatigue and weaken with heat cycles)?
Hold-down pins and clips replaced and securing shoes to backing plate correctly?
Self-adjusting mechanism clean, lubricated, and ratcheting correctly?

Wheel Cylinder and Hydraulic System

Wheel cylinder inspection for leaks that contaminate linings and reduce hydraulic pressure.

Wheel cylinder boots dry with no brake fluid weeping from behind boot?
Wheel cylinder pistons moving freely - not seized or corroded?
Bleeder screw not broken, accessible, and threads intact?
Rear brake hose inspected for cracking, swelling, or deterioration?
Brake fluid flushed if moisture content high or color dark (fluid service every 2 years recommended)?

Parking Brake Adjustment and Function

Parking brake adjustment is a critical safety requirement after drum brake service.

Parking brake adjusted to engage within OEM click count (typically 4-8 clicks)?
Parking brake holds vehicle on grade without secondary braking?
Parking brake cables not frayed, kinked, or seized in conduit?
Parking brake fully releases with no residual drag after release?
Electronic parking brake recalibrated with scan tool if equipped (required after rear brake service)?

Final Inspection and Documentation

Verify complete brake system function and document service.

Brake pedal firm after brake bedding procedure - no spongy feeling?
Road test confirms no brake pull to either side under normal and hard braking?
No grinding or scraping noise from rear brakes during road test?
Brake warning light not illuminated after service completion?
Wheel lug nuts torqued to specification with torque wrench after wheel installation?
Drum brake service documented with measurements, parts used, and next inspection interval?
Front brake condition checked and documented while vehicle was on lift?
Master cylinder brake fluid level verified correct after complete brake service?

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Why Use This Rear Drum Brake Service and Inspection Checklist?

This rear drum brake service and inspection checklist helps automotive service teams maintain compliance and operational excellence. Designed for ase a5-certified brake technician professionals, this checklist covers 28 critical inspection points across 5 sections. Recommended frequency: every 25,000-40,000 miles / per brake inspection.

Ensures compliance with FMVSS 105 (Hydraulic and Electric Brake Systems), FMVSS 135 (Light Vehicle Brake Systems), ASE A5 Brake Systems Certification, OSHA 29 CFR 1910.178 Lift Safety, OEM Drum Brake Specifications, UK MOT Brake Inspection Standards, India CMVR Schedule V Braking System Requirements. Regulatory-aligned for audit readiness and inspection documentation.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the Rear Drum Brake Service and Inspection Checklist cover?

This checklist covers 28 inspection items across 5 sections: Drum Measurement and Condition, Brake Shoes, Linings, and Hardware, Wheel Cylinder and Hydraulic System, Parking Brake Adjustment and Function, Final Inspection and Documentation. It is designed for automotive service operations and compliance.

How often should this checklist be completed?

This checklist should be completed every 25,000-40,000 miles / per brake inspection. Each completion takes approximately 45-75 minutes.

Who should use this Rear Drum Brake Service and Inspection Checklist?

This checklist is designed for ASE A5-Certified Brake Technician professionals in the automotive service industry. It can be used for self-assessments, team audits, and regulatory compliance documentation.

Can I download this checklist as a PDF?

Yes, this checklist is available as a free PDF download. You can also use it digitally in the POPProbe mobile app for real-time data capture, photo documentation, and automatic reporting.