05/05/2009
The Importance of Bedding in New Brake Pads
Following on from our guide on replacing brake pads, we wanted to delve deeper into the critical post-replacement process. As a leading brake pad manufacturer, we understand the importance of ensuring your new brake pads and rotors work in perfect harmony from the outset. This is achieved through a process known as 'bedding in', 'burnishing', or 'running in' your new brake components. Skipping this vital step can lead to suboptimal braking performance, premature wear, and increased noise. This article will guide you through the 'why' and 'how' of effective brake pad bedding.
What is Brake Pad Bedding In?
Bedding in, also referred to as burnishing or running in, is a controlled process that uses heat to optimise the performance of newly fitted brake pads and their corresponding rotors (or brake discs). The primary goal is to create a consistent and even transfer of friction material from the pad onto the rotor surface. This ensures a uniform contact area, leading to more effective and predictable braking. It also helps to remove any residual manufacturing dust or contaminants that might be present on either the pads or the rotors.
Why is Bedding In So Important?
Failing to properly bed in your new brake pads can have several negative consequences:
- Uneven Wear: Without bedding, the brake pad material may not transfer evenly to the rotor. This can lead to 'hot spots' on the rotor and uneven wear patterns on the pads, reducing their lifespan.
- Reduced Braking Performance: The initial stopping power might be compromised as the pads and rotors haven't achieved their optimal friction coefficient.
- Increased Noise: Improperly bedded pads are more prone to squealing and other braking noises.
- Brake Fade: Inconsistent contact can contribute to brake fade, especially during demanding driving conditions, where the braking system's effectiveness diminishes due to overheating.
- Glazing: Overheating during the initial stages without proper bedding can 'glaze' the pad surface, creating a hard, smooth layer that drastically reduces friction.
The Recommended Bedding In Procedure
We recommend the following procedure for bedding in your new brake pads. Always ensure you are in a safe location, away from traffic, and obeying all speed limits. If you hear any squealing, it's advisable to ease off and allow the brakes to cool slightly.
Step 1: Initial Warming
Objective: To gently warm the brake pads and rotors to their optimal operating temperature.
Procedure:
- Accelerate your vehicle to approximately 30 mph (around 50 km/h).
- Apply the brakes firmly but smoothly to slow down to around 5-10 mph (8-15 km/h). Avoid coming to a complete stop.
- Release the brake pedal and allow the vehicle to accelerate back to 30 mph.
- Repeat this process 2-3 times.
- After these repetitions, drive normally for a few minutes to allow the brakes to cool slightly.
Step 2: High-Speed Braking
Objective: To further increase the temperature and encourage even material transfer.
Procedure:
- Find a safe stretch of road where you can safely increase your speed. Accelerate to approximately 55-60 mph (90-100 km/h).
- Apply the brakes firmly and progressively to reduce your speed to around 10-15 mph (15-25 km/h). Again, avoid a complete stop.
- Release the brake pedal and accelerate back up to your target speed.
- Repeat this process 4-5 times. This can be effectively done on winding country roads or similar quiet environments where you can maintain speed between braking applications.
Step 3: Cooling Drive
Objective: To allow the brakes to cool down gradually and stabilise the transferred material.
Procedure:
- Drive normally for another 20-30 minutes.
- During this period, try to avoid any harsh or sudden braking. Gentle deceleration is preferred.
Step 4: Extended Cooling and Settling
Objective: To allow the entire braking system to cool completely and the pad material to fully settle onto the rotor.
Procedure:
- Park your vehicle in a safe location, such as a parking lot.
- Leave the vehicle to cool undisturbed for at least an hour. Avoid applying the handbrake immediately if possible; use a gear or wheel chocks if necessary to prevent rolling.
For most of our high-quality brake pads, this initial bedding-in process is sufficient to ensure they mould correctly to the brake discs. The subsequent 200-400 miles (300-650 km) of normal driving will then naturally complete the settling and optimisation of the braking system. With our Frontech brake pads, you should notice a significant improvement in braking feel and a reduction in noise during this period.
What Happens If You Don't Bed In Brake Pads?
Skipping the bedding-in process is a false economy. The consequences can manifest in several ways:
| Potential Issue | Explanation |
|---|---|
| Uneven Pad Wear | The friction material doesn't transfer evenly onto the rotor surface, leading to premature and irregular wear of the pads. |
| Increased Noise (Squealing) | Poor contact between the pad and rotor can cause vibrations, resulting in noticeable squealing or grinding noises. |
| Reduced Braking Efficiency | The pads and rotors haven't achieved their optimal friction coefficient, leading to longer stopping distances and less responsive braking. |
| Brake Fade Under Load | During heavy braking or prolonged descents, the heat generated can't dissipate effectively due to poor contact, leading to a loss of braking power. |
| Rotor Damage | Uneven heat distribution and material transfer can cause warping or 'hot spots' on the rotors, potentially requiring their replacement. |
| Increased Dust | Irregular wear patterns can sometimes lead to an increase in brake dust appearing on your wheels. |
Do All Brake Pads Need Bedding In?
Yes, we strongly recommend that all new brake pads and rotors (brake discs) undergo a bedding-in procedure before being subjected to normal driving conditions. This applies universally, regardless of the brake pad material type:
- Semi-Metallic Brake Pads: These benefit greatly from bedding to ensure the metallic particles bond effectively with the rotor.
- Low-Metallic Brake Pads: Similar to semi-metallic, bedding helps optimise the transfer of the small metallic content for consistent friction.
- Ceramic Brake Pads: While known for low dust and quiet operation, ceramic pads also require bedding to ensure the ceramic composite transfers smoothly onto the rotor surface for maximum effectiveness and longevity.
- Organic/Non-Asbestos Organic (NAO) Brake Pads: These pads also require bedding to achieve their optimal friction and prevent premature wear.
Essentially, any new friction material needs to acclimatise to the rotor surface to perform at its best.
How Long Does Bedding In Take?
The initial, active bedding-in procedure we've outlined typically takes around 1-2 hours to complete, depending on your availability and location. However, the 'settling in' period, where the brakes fully optimise during normal driving, takes longer. As mentioned, the subsequent 200-400 miles (300-650 km) of driving are crucial for this. In the UK, the average motorist drives around 600 miles per month, meaning this secondary phase can take anywhere from a couple of weeks to a couple of months, depending on your usage patterns.
Brakes and Your MOT
It's worth noting the critical role of brakes in your vehicle's safety and legality. Your car's MOT test rigorously checks the braking system. Common reasons for MOT failure include:
- Visible damage to brake discs (rotors) or pads.
- Brake pads worn below the legal minimum thickness of 1.5mm.
- Ineffective braking performance, indicating issues with the system's efficiency.
- Leaks in the brake fluid lines.
- Malfunctioning parking brake.
Proper maintenance, including correct bedding-in of new components, ensures your brakes are always in optimal condition and will pass your MOT with flying colours.
Choosing a Reliable Brake Parts Supplier
As a dedicated brake pads manufacturer, we pride ourselves on supplying high-quality components to distributors, repair shops, and individuals worldwide. With a 5-star rating on Google and Alibaba, and a 100% on-time delivery rate, you can trust us for your braking needs. If you're looking for a new brake parts supplier or have any questions about our products, please don't hesitate to contact our team.
Contact Information:
- Contact Form: Available on our website.
- Email: [email protected]
- WhatsApp: +86 1805 461 6875
Our team is available Monday to Friday, 8 am to 5:30 pm (UK time), and we strive to respond to all enquiries within 24 business hours.
Investing a little time in the bedding-in process for your new brake pads will pay dividends in terms of safety, performance, and the longevity of your braking system. Drive safe!
If you want to read more articles similar to Bedding in Brake Pads: A Crucial Step, you can visit the Maintenance category.