2007 Kia Rio Drum Brake Design Flaw? Rear brakes now ineffective after changing?

Potential Causes of Rear Brake Inefficiency After Changing:

Improper Installation: Incorrectly installed brake components or improper adjustment can lead to reduced braking effectiveness.

Damaged or Worn Brake Components: Brake pads, rotors, and drums need regular maintenance and may need replacement if excessively worn or damaged.

Air in Brake Lines: Air in the brake lines can cause the pedal to feel spongy and the brakes to be ineffective.

Master Cylinder Failure: A faulty master cylinder may not be properly applying pressure to the brake lines, resulting in weak or ineffective braking.

Proportioning Valve Issue: The proportioning valve is responsible for distributing brake fluid evenly between the front and rear brakes. A malfunctioning valve can cause the rear brakes to be ineffective.

Emergency Brake Misadjustment: If the emergency brake is improperly adjusted, it can interfere with the normal functioning of the rear brakes.

Parking Brake Cable Issue: A stretched, damaged, or improperly adjusted parking brake cable can lead to rear brake inefficiency.

Damaged or Leaking Brake Lines: Leaks can cause loss of brake fluid and reduced braking performance.

Faulty Brake Booster: If the brake booster is not working properly, it can affect the effectiveness of the rear brakes.

Brake Caliper Issues: Caliper problems, such as a stuck piston or damaged seals, can hinder the brakes' ability to properly engage.

Wheel Cylinder Problems: Wheel cylinders in drum brake systems can leak, causing fluid loss and poor brake performance.

ABS System Malfunction: In vehicles equipped with an anti-lock braking system (ABS), a malfunction can affect the rear brakes.

Faulty Brake Proportioning Valve: If the brake proportioning valve is not functioning correctly, it can distribute brake fluid unevenly, resulting in ineffective rear brakes.

Other Factors: In rare cases, issues with the brake master cylinder, brake boosters, or other brake system components can also affect the effectiveness of the rear brakes.

Recommendation:

If you suspect a problem with your vehicle's rear brakes, it's crucial to have the vehicle inspected and diagnosed by a qualified automotive technician to determine the exact cause of the issue and receive appropriate repairs or adjustments.