I have a 99 Civic HX with 74k miles. I have replaced the front brakes a couple times (watch out for Raybestos QuietStop!) but the rear drums have never been touched.
Recently I started noticing brake squeal in the rear when backing down my steep driveway in the morning. I didn't notice under normal driving and braking, so I ignored it. After a few more weeks or so, I started to hear more of an intermittent scraping sound when braking in reverse. At this point I became concerned that the pads had worn down & were damaging the drum.
After a few days or so I bought some new brake shoes and popped open the drums. Not only did everything look fine, but the old shoes looked like they were only 50% worn; there was really no apparent use in replacing them. The inner drum surfaces were smooth, as were the shoes.
The brakes seem to be operating just fine; I use the e-brake every day. In forward motion the ebrake works effectively; the front discs squeal a little when cold (standard Raybestos organic pads), otherwise I don't notice anything. Does anyone have an idea what might cause these strange sounds? Again I only notice it in reverse, and if I pulse the brakes a few times it will start to go away.
thanks, Cooper