My Vibe/Matrix has 4 wheel disc brakes, as well as mechanical parking brake with cables that operate the rear calipers using the standard pull level, so the rear calipers are both hydraulic as well as mechanically operated just the same as my Corolla’s do/did with rear drums but with out the heat fade and much better stopping…
Rear drums stop great the 1st few times you need them back to back to back, but only when adjusted properly, but under heavy braking they will heat fade and all but stop working, that is why they have run-a-way sand traps in the mountains of TN/NC on the long steep hills (I am sure many other parts of the country also), even the small Monteagle Mountain in south middle TN has signs to pull over to cool brakes, as well as use lower gears for the big rigs…
Company’s still use all wheel drum brakes because of lower up front cost and less weight NOT because they are safer and more efficient…
Disc Brakes vs. Drum Brakes
While drum brakes are popular, some trucks use disc brakes. Here’s how they differ:
- Heat handling:
- Drum brakes can overheat on long downhills*
- Disc brakes cool better, reducing brake fade*
- Maintenance:
- Drum brakes need more adjustments*
- Disc brakes are easier to service*
- Performance:
- Disc brakes stop faster in wet conditions*
- Drum brakes can be more powerful when properly adjusted*
- Cost:
- Drum brakes are cheaper to make*
- Disc brakes often cost more upfront*