VIDEO: Brake Pad Research And Development
Andrew Markel explains how brake pads undergo quality control and research before they are distributed, and how that adds value to a brake pad job.
VIDEO: Brake Pad Chamfers And Slots
Andrew Markel shows why some brake pads have chamfers, slots, none or both, and how they can reduce noise.
Brake Pad Chamfers, Slots And Shapes: Controlling Brake Noise
When the brake pad’s friction surface is not in harmony with the caliper and rotor, the result is usually noise. But, brake pad manufacturers have some tricks to prevent this problem or at least shift it outside of the range of human hearing.
Brake Pad Contamination From Friction And Dust
Two forms of brake pad contamination can occur once a brake pad is pressed into a rotor and friction is generated.
VIDEO: Brake Pad Lubrication
Andrew Markel discusses the importance of proper lubrication on brake pads, including not using too much and correct placement.
VIDEO: Brake Pads And Hardware
Andrew Markel explains why it’s necessary to replace brake hardware with every brake pad job.
Are You Choosing The Right Brake Pad For The Right Customer?
Selecting the right friction material is a difficult task. I could say that you should select the most expensive pad that your supplier offers, but the right pads for the customer aren’t always at the top (or bottom) of the price column.
Brake Pad Copper Update
Like it or not, recent mandates limiting the concentration of copper allowed in brake pads could be our generation’s asbestos.
What’s The Best Way To Break In New Brake Pads?
Avoid heavy braking or panic stops for the first couple of hundred miles. Normal driving will usually seat in most brake pads just fine, provided the rotors are clean, relatively smooth (no excessive scoring or grooving) and flat (no warpage or pedal pulsations).
Brake Pad Wear Sensors
Brake pad wear sensors have been around for more than 40 years. But in the past decade, they have evolved so that brake wear can be estimated. This has allowed the driver to pick the right time to have their brake pads replaced.
