Handbrake shoes

What Are Handbrake Shoes?

Handbrake shoes are friction components used inside the rear brake drum or brake disc hub assembly to operate the parking brake. At A-Z Motor Factors Halifax, we supply OE-quality handbrake shoes that deliver strong holding power, reliable engagement and long-lasting performance for all makes and models.

How Handbrake Shoes Work

Unlike the main hydraulic brake system, handbrake shoes operate mechanically. When the handbrake lever or electronic parking brake (EPB) activates:

• A mechanical lever or actuator forces the shoes outward

• The friction lining presses against the inner drum surface

• The vehicle is held in place securely, even on steep slopes

Good-quality handbrake shoes are critical for MOT handbrake efficiency.

Signs You Need New Handbrake Shoes

Replace your handbrake shoes if you notice:

• Weak or poor handbrake holding power

• Excessive lever travel (handbrake pulls too high)

• Grinding noises inside the hub/drum

• MOT failure for parking brake efficiency

• Vehicle rolling when the handbrake is applied

• Shoes contaminated with oil or brake fluid

• Cracked, glazed or worn friction surfaces

Damaged shoes can reduce braking stability and compromise safety.

Types of Handbrake Shoes We Supply

We stock a complete range of handbrake shoes, including:

• Standard replacement parking brake shoes

• Shoes for drum-in-disc rear brake systems

• Shoes with pre-fitted hold-down hardware

• Premium coated shoes for extended lifespan

• Matched shoe & fitting kits

All shoes meet OE manufacturing standards for fit and durability.

Left / Right (L/R) Fitment

Some vehicles require specific L/R handbrake shoe sets due to:

• Internal hub layout

• Lever orientation

• Actuator position

• Adjuster type

Using your registration number ensures the correct part every time.

Related Handbrake Components We Supply

For a complete handbrake system overhaul, we also offer:

• Handbrake Cables

• Shoe Fitting Kits

• Shoe Adjusters

• Backing Plates

• Parking Brake Springs & Clips

• Brake Drums

• EPB Motors & Actuators

• Wheel Cylinders

Everything you need to restore full parking brake function.

When Should Handbrake Shoes and Hardware Be Replaced Together?

It’s highly recommended to replace:

• Shoes

• Fitting springs

• Adjusters

• Cables (if worn)

at the same time, because worn hardware can prevent new shoes from engaging properly. This ensures:

• Better holding power

• Smooth release

• Longer shoe lifespan

• MOT pass for handbrake efficiency