While disc brakes offer many advantages for various applications, they also come with a few downsides. Here are some of the common downsides associated with disc brakes:

1. Cost: Disc brake systems are generally more expensive to manufacture, install, and maintain compared to traditional drum brakes. They require specialized components such as rotors, calipers, pads, and more intricate mechanisms.
2. Complexity: Disc brake systems are more complex than drum brakes due to their design and the various components involved. This complexity can lead to more intricate maintenance and repair procedures.
3. Heat Dissipation: Although disc brakes are generally better at dissipating heat compared to drum brakes, excessive heat buildup can still be a concern, especially in heavy-duty applications or during prolonged periods of braking. This can lead to brake fade, where braking performance decreases due to overheating.
4. Sensitivity to Contaminants: Disc brakes are more sensitive to contaminants like water, dirt, and debris compared to drum brakes. Contaminants can reduce braking efficiency and increase wear on the rotor and pads.
5. Noise: Disc brakes can be more prone to producing noise, such as squealing or squeaking, especially in wet conditions. While advancements in brake pad materials and designs have mitigated this issue to some extent, noise can still be a concern.
6. Rotor Warping: Hard braking or excessive heat can sometimes lead to rotor warping, causing uneven braking and vibrations felt in the brake pedal. This issue can require resurfacing or replacement of the rotor.
7. Pad Wear: Disc brake pads tend to wear out faster than drum brake shoes, especially in aggressive driving or heavy load situations. This means more frequent maintenance and replacement of brake pads.
8. Maintenance Challenges: While disc brakes generally require less maintenance than drum brakes, maintenance tasks can sometimes be more involved, requiring careful inspection and adjustment of various components to ensure optimal performance.
9. Weight: In some cases, disc brake systems can be heavier than drum brake systems, particularly when including larger rotors and calipers. This additional weight can affect fuel efficiency and handling.
10. Compatibility: Retrofitting disc brakes onto vehicles originally designed for drum brakes might require modifications and adaptations, which can be time-consuming and costly.

It’s important to note that while these downsides exist, many of them have been addressed and improved through advancements in brake technology, material science, and engineering. The choice between disc brakes and drum brakes often depends on the specific application, vehicle type, and desired performance characteristics.

One common problem with disc brakes is brake squeal or brake noise. Brake squeal occurs when the brake pads come into contact with the rotating brake rotor, producing a high-pitched sound that can be quite annoying. This noise can occur during braking or even when the brakes are not applied but the vehicle is in motion.

Brake squeal is caused by various factors, including:

1. Vibration: When the brake pads press against the rotor, they can sometimes vibrate at a specific frequency, causing the noise. These vibrations can be triggered by irregularities in the rotor surface, variations in the pad material, or even the design of the brake system.
2. Pad Material: The composition and properties of the brake pad material can influence its tendency to produce noise. Some pad materials are more prone to generating squeal than others.
3. Rotor Surface: The condition and smoothness of the rotor surface can also play a role. If the rotor has irregularities, hot spots, or surface imperfections, it can contribute to the generation of noise.
4. Damping and Insulation: Insufficient damping or insulation between the brake components can allow vibrations to propagate and amplify, leading to noise.
5. Environmental Factors: Weather conditions, humidity, and temperature changes can affect the likelihood of brake noise occurring.

Automakers and brake manufacturers have developed various strategies to mitigate brake squeal, such as using different pad materials, adding dampening layers to the brake pads, improving rotor designs, and implementing better insulation and noise-reduction technologies. However, brake squeal remains a challenge in some cases, and finding the right balance between braking performance and noise reduction can be a complex engineering task.

Deciding whether to upgrade to disc brakes depends on several factors, including the type of vehicle, intended use, driving habits, and personal preferences. Here are some considerations to help you decide if upgrading to disc brakes is worth it:

Advantages of Upgrading to Disc Brakes:

1. Improved Braking Performance: Disc brakes generally offer better braking performance compared to drum brakes. They provide more consistent and effective stopping power, especially in demanding conditions or during repeated hard braking.
2. Heat Dissipation: Disc brakes dissipate heat more effectively than drum brakes, reducing the likelihood of brake fade during prolonged or aggressive braking.
3. Reduced Maintenance: Disc brakes often require less frequent maintenance compared to drum brakes. They are less prone to issues like brake shoe sticking or adjustment.
4. Wet Weather Performance: Disc brakes perform better in wet conditions since they shed water more efficiently and are less prone to water buildup compared to drum brakes.
5. Compatibility with Modern Wheels: Many modern wheels and rims are designed to accommodate disc brakes, making it easier to upgrade without having to modify the wheel setup.

Considerations Before Upgrading:

1. Cost: Upgrading to disc brakes can be expensive. It involves purchasing new brake components, possibly modifying the existing braking system, and labor costs for installation.
2. Compatibility: Ensure that your vehicle is compatible with disc brakes. Some older vehicles or models might require modifications to accommodate disc brakes.
3. DIY vs. Professional Installation: Depending on your mechanical skills, you might need to factor in the cost of professional installation if you’re not comfortable doing the upgrade yourself.
4. Driving Habits: If you primarily drive in normal traffic conditions and don’t frequently encounter situations that demand high braking performance, the advantages of disc brakes might not be as pronounced.
5. Resale Value: Upgrading to disc brakes might enhance the resale value of your vehicle, but the return on investment can vary depending on the overall condition of the vehicle and market demand.
6. Existing Brake System: If your vehicle already has functional and well-maintained drum brakes, the benefits of upgrading might not be as significant.

Ultimately, the decision to upgrade to disc brakes should be based on your individual needs and priorities. If you frequently drive in challenging conditions, tow heavy loads, or engage in spirited driving, the improved braking performance of disc brakes could be valuable. However, if your driving is mostly city-based and doesn’t require aggressive braking, the benefits might be less pronounced. It’s a good idea to consult with automotive experts or professionals to get advice tailored to your specific vehicle and driving habits before making a decision.