When should a Range Rover’s brake drums be replaced?

As a mechanic and a long-time Range Rover owner, I’ve experienced my fair share of the brand’s well-known inclination toward experiencing reliability issues.

One such issue that can arise is problems with the braking system, specifically the brake drums.

So, when should a Range Rover’s brake drums be replaced? Let’s dive in.

What models are affected?

• Land Rover Defender
• Range Rover Discovery
• Range Rover Evoque
• Range Rover Sport
• Range Rover Velar
• Range Rover Vogue

When to replace

The general rule of thumb is to replace your brake drums every 60,000 miles. However, this timeline can vary depending on a few factors.

One major factor is how heavily you use your brakes.

If you frequently drive in heavy traffic or have a habit of frequent hard braking, your brake drums may wear down faster than someone who drives primarily on rural highways.

Signs and symptoms it’s time for a replacement

Your brakes will provide you with some tell-tale signs when it’s time for a replacement. A few signs to look out for include:

• Squeaking, grinding, or scraping sounds when you press the brake pedal
• A vibrating brake pedal when you apply the brakes
• Longer stopping distances and weaker braking performance
• Visible cracks or grooves in your brake drums

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s time to bring your Range Rover in for a brake inspection.

List of related OBD codes

Here are a few OBD codes related to brake drums:

• P0500 – Vehicle Speed Sensor A Malfunction
• P0501 – Vehicle Speed Sensor Range/Performance
• P0502 – Vehicle Speed Sensor Circuit Low Input
• P0503 – Vehicle Speed Sensor Intermittent/Erratic/High

What can happen if not replaced

If you neglect to replace your brake drums when they need it, a few things can happen.

Firstly, corrosion and damage to your brake drums can spread to other parts of your braking system, leading to more costly repairs down the line.

Secondly, your braking performance will severely suffer, leading to potentially dangerous driving situations.

Can it be replaced without a mechanic?

Replacing brake drums is a relatively straightforward process that can be done at home, provided you have some experience and the right tools.

However, if you’re not confident in your mechanical abilities, it’s recommended to take your Range Rover to a certified mechanic.

Parts you’ll need to replace it

Here are the parts you’ll need to replace your brake drums:

• Replacement brake drums
• Brake shoes
• Brake hardware kit (springs, clips, etc.)
• Brake cleaner
• Lubricant

Tools you’ll need to replace it

Here are the tools you’ll need to replace your brake drums:

• Lug wrench
• Jack and Jack stands
• Brake drum puller
• Brake spoon
• Brake spring tool
•  Brake adjustment gauge
• Torque wrench

How to replace it

Here’s a step-by-step guide to replacing your Range Rover’s brake drums:

1. Park your vehicle on a level surface and chock the wheels.
2. Loosen the lug nuts on the wheel with the brake drums you need to replace.
3. Jack up the vehicle and secure it with jack stands.
4. Remove the wheel and inspect the brake drum and shoes.
5. Use the brake spoon to loosen the brake shoe tension and remove the brake drum.
6. Clean the area with brake cleaner and inspect the new drum for any defects.
7. Install the new brake drum and adjust the brake shoes.
8. Reinstall the wheel and torque the lug nuts to the manufacturer’s specifications.
9. Repeat the process on the other wheels.

FAQs

 

Last updated and verified on 4th September 2023