Does the Honda City have rear brake pads?
Yes—but only on versions equipped with rear disc brakes. Most Honda City variants sold in many markets, including India, traditionally use front disc brakes and rear drum brakes, which means they have rear brake shoes, not pads. However, higher-spec or hybrid trims in some regions (for example, the 5th‑generation City e:HEV in India) are fitted with rear disc brakes, and those do use rear brake pads. Always check your specific model year, trim, and market specification.
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How braking hardware varies across Honda City models
The Honda City nameplate spans multiple generations and markets, and the rear-brake design differs by year and trim. Understanding the typical configurations can help you determine whether your car has rear pads or shoes.
By generation and trim (India overview)
The following points outline how recent India-market Honda City models have generally been equipped from the factory.
- 3rd gen (approx. 2008–2013): Front discs, rear drums—no rear brake pads.
- 4th gen (2014–2019/20): Front discs, rear drums—no rear brake pads.
- 5th gen petrol (2020–present): Front discs, rear drums—no rear brake pads.
- 5th gen City e:HEV hybrid (launched 2022, India): Disc brakes on all four wheels—yes, rear brake pads.
In India, unless you own the e:HEV hybrid variant, your Honda City most likely has rear drum brakes with shoes rather than pads.
By region (ASEAN and other markets)
Outside India, specifications can vary with market regulations and trim strategy. Here is a general pattern seen across several ASEAN markets and select global regions.
- Entry to mid trims: Commonly front discs with rear drums—no rear pads.
- Higher-spec or sport/hybrid trims: May add rear disc brakes—these use rear pads; availability varies by country and model year.
- Hatchback or RS-branded variants: Equipment differs by market; some get rear discs, others retain drums. Always verify the local spec sheet.
Because regional specs change over time, the definitive way to know is to check your specific market’s brochure or your vehicle’s build information.
How to confirm whether your Honda City has rear brake pads
If you’re unsure about your car’s setup, there are straightforward ways to verify whether you have rear discs (pads) or drums (shoes).
- Check the owner’s manual: Look under the brakes or specifications section.
- Inspect the rear wheels: Through the wheel spokes, a smooth metal disc indicates disc brakes (pads); a closed backing plate suggests drums (shoes).
- Review the official brochure for your exact model year and trim: Manufacturers list brake types in the technical specs.
- Use your VIN with a dealer: They can pull the build sheet showing brake configuration.
- Look for related features: Electronic parking brake and rear disc mention often go together on higher-spec trims.
Combining a visual check with official documentation is the quickest way to be certain about your rear brake hardware.
Why the difference matters: pads vs. shoes
Rear disc brakes (pads) and rear drum brakes (shoes) have different maintenance and performance characteristics.
- Performance: Rear discs generally offer more consistent braking and better heat dissipation under repeated stops.
- Maintenance: Pads are typically quicker to inspect/replace; shoes can last long but are more involved to service.
- Cost and availability: Pads and discs can be pricier but widely available; shoes may be less expensive, depending on market.
- Features: Trims with rear discs may also bundle features like electronic parking brake and advanced driver aids.
Knowing which system you have helps you plan maintenance, parts sourcing, and understand your vehicle’s braking performance.
Summary
The Honda City can have rear brake pads if it’s a variant with rear disc brakes; otherwise, it uses rear drum brakes with shoes. In India, most City petrol trims use rear drums, while the 5th‑gen City e:HEV hybrid includes rear discs (and thus pads). In other markets, availability of rear discs depends on trim and model year—always confirm via your manual, spec sheet, or VIN.
Does the Honda City have rear brakes?
The VTEC variant of the City is offered with 15-inch alloy wheels compared to the 14-inch offered in the i-DSI and the rear brakes are solid discs on the VTEC variant instead of drums in the i-DSI.
Does the Honda City have disc brakes?
Suspension, steering and brakes
It comes equipped with MacPherson strut suspension at the front and a multi-link setup at the rear. The vehicle’s steering is light and responsive, making it easy to manoeuvre in city traffic. For safety, the City is equipped with disc brakes at the front and drum brakes at the rear.
Do Hondas have front and rear brakes?
The CBS (combined braking system, or front and rear wheel linked brakes) are designed to activate the brakes on both wheels by operating only one side. There are two types on the Honda CBS.
Do you have brake pads in the rear?
In most cars, each caliper has one inner pad and one outer pad. That’s a total of four pads on a car with front disc brakes, and 8 on a car with front and rear brakes. New cars with electronic parking brakes often have separate parking brake calipers on the rear wheels. That’s another four pads.