12/09/2011
When it comes to automotive performance, few components are as critical as your vehicle's braking system. It's the unsung hero that keeps you safe, allows you to push limits, and ultimately dictates your control. For enthusiasts and performance-minded drivers, upgrading brake pads is often one of the first and most impactful modifications. Among the myriad of options available, the Ferodo DS Performance range stands out, promising a unique blend of track-ready feel and road-friendly refinement. But is DS Performance a good brake pad for your specific needs? Let's delve deep into what makes these pads tick.
Understanding the Ferodo DS Performance Philosophy
Ferodo has a long-standing and illustrious history in motorsport, providing braking solutions for championship-winning race cars across various disciplines. The DS Performance range is a direct beneficiary of this extensive racing pedigree, designed to bridge the gap between dedicated track compounds and standard Original Equipment (OE) pads.
The core concept behind DS Performance is to offer the driver a tangible improvement in braking feel and performance without sacrificing the daily drivability expected from a road car. This means you get a pad that bites harder, offers more consistent performance under demanding conditions, and provides superior fade resistance compared to a typical street pad, all while maintaining acceptable noise levels and dust production for everyday use.
Key Characteristics and Benefits
- High Performance for Road Cars: The primary focus of DS Performance is on enhancing the braking capabilities of performance-oriented road vehicles. This isn't a full-race pad that requires extreme heat to work, nor is it a basic OE replacement. It's engineered for spirited driving on public roads, offering confidence and control when you need it most.
- Racing Feel, OE Refinement: This is the unique selling proposition. Drivers often seek the immediate, firm bite and linear response characteristic of a racing brake pad. DS Performance aims to deliver this sensation, allowing for precise modulation and confident braking, while still maintaining the low noise and dust levels associated with OE materials.
- ECE R90 Compliant: A crucial aspect for any road-legal brake pad in Europe is compliance with ECE R90 regulations. This standard ensures that replacement brake pads perform at least as well as the original equipment parts in terms of braking efficiency, integrity, and friction characteristics. The fact that DS Performance pads are ECE R90 compliant means you can install them with confidence, knowing they meet strict European safety and performance standards for road use. This isn't just a marketing claim; it's a legal and safety assurance.
- Improved Fade Resistance: Under repeated heavy braking, standard brake pads can suffer from 'fade,' where their effectiveness diminishes due to excessive heat. DS Performance pads are formulated to resist this, providing more consistent performance during spirited driving or on twisty roads where brakes are worked hard.
Who Are Ferodo DS Performance Pads For?
The ideal candidate for Ferodo DS Performance brake pads is a driver who:
- Owns a high performance road car and seeks an upgrade over the standard OE pads.
- Engages in spirited driving, enjoying twisty roads or occasional track days, but primarily uses their vehicle on public roads.
- Wants a more responsive, firm brake pedal feel without the downsides (excessive noise, dust, poor cold bite) often associated with dedicated track pads.
- Values safety and consistent braking performance under varying conditions.
- Seeks a balance between outright performance and everyday usability.
They are not designed for full-time, competitive racing, where more aggressive compounds like Ferodo's DS2500 or DS3000 might be more appropriate. However, for the discerning enthusiast, they offer a compelling package.
Comparing DS Performance: A Practical Look
To better understand where Ferodo DS Performance pads sit in the market, let's compare them against typical Original Equipment (OE) pads and more aggressive, dedicated track pads. This table provides a general overview, as specific performance will vary by vehicle and driving style.
| Feature | Standard OE Pads | Ferodo DS Performance | Dedicated Track Pads (e.g., Ferodo DS3000) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Initial Bite (Cold) | Good, immediate | Very Good, firm | Moderate (can be poor until hot) |
| Stopping Power | Adequate for daily driving | Excellent, significantly improved | Outstanding (when hot) |
| Fade Resistance | Limited, prone to fade under heavy use | High, very good for spirited road use | Extremely High, designed for sustained abuse |
| Noise Levels | Very Low | Low to Moderate (can have occasional squeal) | High (squeal is common) |
| Brake Dust | Low | Moderate (more than OE, less than track) | High (very corrosive) |
| Rotor Wear | Low | Moderate | High |
| Longevity (Road Use) | High | Good (depends on driving style) | Low (not designed for road) |
| Recommended Use | General daily driving | Spirited road driving, occasional track days | Dedicated track and race use only |
Installation and Bedding-In Procedures
Proper installation and a meticulous bedding-in procedure are crucial for optimising the performance and longevity of any brake pad, including Ferodo DS Performance. Incorrect bedding-in can lead to reduced performance, noise, and premature wear.
Installation Tips:
- Always replace brake pads in complete axle sets (both front or both rear).
- Inspect brake discs for wear, cracks, or excessive run-out. It's often recommended to replace discs when installing new performance pads, especially if the old discs are worn.
- Clean all caliper components thoroughly, including the caliper pins and pad abutments. Lubricate moving parts with high-temperature brake grease specifically designed for brake systems.
- Ensure the brake fluid reservoir cap is removed before pushing back caliper pistons, and monitor fluid levels to prevent overflow.
- After installation, pump the brake pedal several times until it feels firm before driving the vehicle.
Bedding-In Procedure:
The bedding-in process transfers a thin, even layer of pad material onto the brake disc, which is essential for optimal friction and preventing judder. While specific instructions may vary slightly, a general procedure for performance pads like DS Performance involves:
- Gentle Driving: For the first 100-200 miles, drive gently, avoiding hard braking. This allows the pads to seat properly against the discs.
- Series of Stops: Find a safe, open road where you can perform a series of moderate to firm stops from approximately 60 mph down to 10 mph. Do about 8-10 such stops, allowing for a short cool-down period between each stop (e.g., driving for a minute or two without braking). The aim is to build heat gradually, not to cause fade.
- Cool Down: After the series of stops, drive at a moderate speed for several minutes without braking excessively to allow the pads and discs to cool down gradually. Avoid coming to a complete stop with the brakes held on immediately after the heating cycles, as this can imprint pad material unevenly onto the disc, leading to judder.
Following this procedure carefully will ensure you get the best possible stopping power and feel from your new Ferodo DS Performance pads.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Are Ferodo DS Performance pads noisy?
A: Compared to standard OE pads, DS Performance pads can be slightly more prone to noise, particularly a light squeal at low speeds or when cold. However, they are significantly quieter and more street-friendly than dedicated track pads. Proper bedding-in and clean installation can minimise noise.
Q2: Do they produce a lot of brake dust?
A: Yes, they typically produce more brake dust than standard OE pads. This is a common characteristic of performance friction materials, as the dust is a byproduct of their higher friction co-efficient. The dust is generally darker and more noticeable than OE dust, but it is usually less corrosive than the dust from full-race pads.
Q3: Are they suitable for daily driving?
A: Absolutely. While they offer enhanced performance, they are specifically designed for high-performance road cars and are ECE R90 compliant. They provide excellent cold bite and don't require high temperatures to operate effectively, making them perfectly suitable for daily commuting and general road use.
Q4: Do I need to upgrade my brake discs when installing DS Performance pads?
A: While not strictly mandatory if your existing discs are in excellent condition, it is highly recommended to pair performance pads with new, good-quality discs. This ensures an optimal mating surface for the new pads and prevents issues like judder caused by worn or warped old discs. Drilled or grooved performance discs can further enhance the overall braking system's capabilities.
Q5: How long do Ferodo DS Performance pads last?
A: Pad life is highly dependent on driving style and vehicle weight. In general, performance pads like DS Performance may wear slightly faster than standard OE pads due to their higher friction properties. However, for a spirited road driver, you can still expect reasonable longevity. Heavy track use will significantly reduce their lifespan.
Q6: What does ECE R90 compliant mean for me?
A: ECE R90 compliance is a European regulation that certifies replacement brake pads meet specific performance and safety standards, ensuring they are equivalent to or better than the original equipment pads for that vehicle. For you, it means peace of mind that the pads are legally approved for road use across Europe and will perform reliably and safely.
Conclusion
The Ferodo DS Performance brake pad range genuinely delivers on its promise: a high-performance road pad with the feel of a racing compound but the refinement of an Original Equipment material. For drivers who demand more from their braking system but aren't ready for the compromises of a full-blown race pad, DS Performance offers an exceptional balance. Its ECE R90 compliance ensures legality and safety, while its enhanced stopping power and fade resistance provide a significant upgrade for spirited driving. If you're looking to elevate your vehicle's braking performance without sacrificing everyday usability, Ferodo DS Performance is undoubtedly a very good choice.
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