2012 Chevrolet Traverse - Brake Backing Plate

What is a Brake Backing Plate?

The brake backing plate in a drum brake system serves as an anchor for the drum brake hardware and shoes. In disc brake applications, it may also be called a dust shield, and serves to protect disc brake rotors and calipers from debris and dust from the road. Brake backing plates are usually made of sheet metal and bolt onto your knuckle or axle behind the brake drum or rotor. In drum brake systems, the brake backing plate will also have mounting points for the wheel cylinder, the brake shoes and springs, the emergency brake hardware, and more. These connection points should always be installed when you service your drum brakes to ensure they are not corroded or otherwise damaged. Over time, a brake backing plate or dust shield may corrode or be damaged by debris and should be replaced before it hinders the function of your brakes. If the dust shield is bent toward the rotor or drum, it can also damage other parts if not addressed. A brake backing plate that is severely rusted or damaged may also change the alignment of your brake shoes or prevent the brakes from activating, depending on how it has failed. If you need to repair your brakes, O'Reilly Auto Parts carries replacement brake backing plates and dust shields, brake pads and shoes, and other brake system parts to help you complete any brake project.