Drum brakes work a little differently. Disc brakes are relatively easy, but drums are best left to an auto repair professional. The mechanism is enclosed in a cylindrical drum found behind the tire, hence the name. Instead of clamping onto the exterior of a disc, drum brake shoes slow the wheel by pressing against the interior surface of the drum. This is usually where the car's emergency brake is connected. To keep your rear brakes in tip-top shape, always be sure to release the lever before driving off.