DRUM BRAKES

Found on: Chevrolet Cobalt, Dodge Dakota, Ford Escape, Honda Civic, Hyundai Accent

No major manufacturer offers four-wheel drum brakes in the United States anymore. But many entry-level models from American and Asian manufacturers have disc brakes in the front -- and less expensive drums in back.

"With the advent of electronic stability control, where you're going to use quite a bit of rear brake," said Champion, "disc brakes are a necessity." Drum brakes overheat faster than disc brakes, making them fade. Disc brakes cool quicker and offer greater, more consistent stopping power.