🚗 Classic Fault — Mercedes-Benz W115 (1968–1976)
Brake fade when hot — drum brake rear
💰 Estimated Repair Cost
$30 – $100 USD
Parts and labour estimate
🔧 Tools Required
Drum brake tools, micrometer, brake cleaner
📋 Overview
Rear drum brakes lose effectiveness after repeated hard stops or mountain descents. The W115 uses drum brakes at the rear which are susceptible to fade when overheated.
🩺 Symptoms
- Brake pedal becomes longer after repeated stops
- reduced braking power when hot
- smell of burning from brakes
- no issues when cold
🔍 Possible Causes
- Overheated drum brakes
- worn brake linings below minimum thickness
- glazed linings or drums
- oil contamination from leaking wheel cylinder
🛠️ Diagnosis Steps
- Allow brakes to cool completely.
- Remove drums.
- Measure drum diameter — maximum oversize 1mm over standard.
- Inspect linings minimum 2mm.
- Check for oil contamination.
✅ Most Confirmed Fix
Replace rear brake linings. Machine or replace drums. Use high-temperature brake lining material.
65% of users confirm this fix worked (8 reports)
🏷️ Parts Needed
Rear brake lining set; brake drum; wheel cylinder kit
🔗 Other Mercedes-Benz W115 Faults
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