Questions and Answers

Chevy Lumina Brakes Q. Seem to go through front pads quickly. Replace a set recently and then pulled my rear drums. I've had the car since 24,000 miles and have not changed the rear shoes. Upon removing the drums on both sides, the shoes have no wear. Almost ¼" on the front shoes. Kind of explains why the front pads wear out.

Any ideas on what to check? Proportioning valve? A factory problem that was never addressed? Is there a TSB on this issue?

1995 Chevy Lumina Sedan
3.1 liter V-6
Front Disc Brakes / Drum Rear Brakes
Mileage 115,000

Thanks

A. Those rear brakes last forever. You don't mention how many miles you get out of a set of front pads. Are you using GM pads? They usually last anywhere between 15,000 to 25,000 miles depending on your driving habits. Also you don't say you are having any problems with the braking. Does it pull when stopping? Are the worn out pads worn funny? One thick pad and one thin on the same side? A misadjusted brake light switch or problem in the master cylinder could cause the front brakes to drag slightly. Seized caliper slides could do this as well.