How to Break in Brakes?
3 Answers
Methods for breaking in brakes: Perform on-road driving to grind them. Drive the car to 90 kilometers per hour, then gently apply the brakes just enough to feel the brake pads and rotors making contact. Allow the vehicle to continue moving forward while grinding the brakes until the speed drops to about 10-20 kilometers per hour. Repeat this process 2-4 times for optimal results. A new brake pad typically has a thickness of approximately 1.5 cm, which gradually wears down with use. When measuring brake pad thickness, note that each pad has raised indicators on both sides, about 2-3 mm thick. This indicator represents the replacement limit. If the brake pad thickness becomes level with this indicator, immediate replacement is necessary.
I've been running an auto repair shop for nearly twenty years, helping countless customers break in their brakes. New brake pads or rotors require gentle bedding-in. Start by driving on city roads or low-speed areas for about 150 to 300 kilometers, avoiding hard or sudden braking. Instead, use light taps on the brake pedal to allow the pads and rotors to gradually match. Avoid full loads or steep climbs in the first few days, as high temperatures can cause uneven friction material deposits, leading to noise or reduced braking power. I've seen many people drive aggressively during the break-in period, resulting in warped rotors and costly repairs later. Regularly check for wear; proper break-in enhances performance, improving braking power and longevity. Regular maintenance is also crucial—keep wheel rims clean to prevent dust buildup from affecting the bedding-in process.
I usually drive to work and have changed brake pads a few times. The break-in process is quite simple. After replacement, avoid high-speed driving initially. During city commutes, pay extra attention: for the first 200 kilometers, apply brakes gently - like slowing down early before red lights, no sudden stomping. On weekends, you can take a leisure drive on suburban roads with less traffic and perform several gentle braking tests. I typically drive like this for about a week until the brakes feel smoother without squeaking. Remember to dry the wheels after car washes to prevent water accumulation from affecting the friction surface. Improper break-in may shorten brake lifespan - I've experienced unbroken-in brakes that wore out severely within months, costing more for replacements. Develop good habits: avoid overloading when driving and regularly check brake fluid levels for peace of mind.