When you install new BRAKE PAD on
your vehicle, it is important to properly 'run them in' before driving
at high speeds or under heavy braking conditions. Running in the pads is
the process of breaking in the pads to the rotors and ensuring that
they work effectively and safely.
- Initial Gentle Braking:
Start with some light and gentle braking at low speeds for 3-5 times.
This is important to start the bedding-in process, which involves
transferring a thin layer of AUTO BRAKE PADS material onto the disc rotor surface.
- Gradual Increase in Brake Pressure:
After the initial gentle braking, gradually increase the brake pressure
and the speed at which you are braking over another 3-5 stops. Avoid
coming to a complete stop if possible, as this can cause uneven pad
deposits.
- Perform a Series of Controlled Hard Braking:
Next, perform a series of around 2-3 hard stops from a moderate speed
(like 35-45 mph) down to about 5-10 mph. Again, try not to come to a
complete stop.
- Gentle Braking:
Do light and gentle braking at low speeds for 1-2 more times. This is
important to round up the bedding-in process, which helps ensure the
final contact surface of the AUTOMOTIVE BRAKE PADS and the rotor is as smooth as possible.
- Cool Down:
After the series of hard stops, drive for a few miles at normal speed
without using the brakes much. This helps to cool down the brakes and
prevent overheating, which can damage the new pads.
- Avoid Heavy Braking Afterwards:
For the first 100-200 miles, try to avoid heavy braking where possible.
This allows the pads to fully bed in and ensures a smooth surface.
Breaking in new BRAKE PADS is important for several reasons:
- Improving
braking performance: When new brake pads are installed, the surface of
the pads and the rotors may not be perfectly smooth. During the
running-in period, the pads will gradually wear down to match the
contours of the rotors, resulting in better contact and improved braking
performance.
- Reducing
brake noise: New brake pads may produce a squealing or squeaking noise
when they are first used. This noise is caused by a high-pitched
vibration between the pads and rotors. As the pads wear in, the noise
will decrease and eventually disappear.
- Avoiding
uneven wear: Uneven wear can occur if the pads are not run in properly.
This can lead to uneven braking performance, which can be dangerous.
Running the pads in evenly distributes the wear across the entire pad,
ensuring consistent and safe braking.
- Improving
the longevity of the brake pads and rotors: Running-in the brake pads
correctly, it will help to reduce wear and tear on the brake pads and
rotors, which will help to extend their lifespan.
- Enhancing
safety: Properly running in brake pads ensures that they will work
effectively and safely when you need them most. It's important to follow
the manufacturer's instructions and avoid excessive use of the brakes
during the running-in period to ensure that your brakes will perform at
their best when you need them.