How Do I Bed-In New Brake Pads And Rotors?

To maximize braking performance, all brake pads and rotors must be "bedded-in." Bedding in, breaking in, or burnishing - are all terms for conditioning new disc brake pads and rotors. Although the procedure varies by manufacturer, bedding-in typically involves a series of manual brake applications over a set distance, which gradually builds up heat in the rotors and pad compound. This process transfers a thin, uniform layer of film from the pads onto the rotors, mating the contact surfaces which can then grip each other evenly.

Failure to bed-in your brakes can lead to uneven buildup of film on the rotors resulting in "brake judder" - a vibration, sometimes severe, that will be felt through the steering wheel and suspension caused by the pads losing and regaining contact with the discs as they rotate, due to the uneven buildup.

Note: Bedding-in new pads and rotors should be done carefully and slowly. Rapid heat buildup in the brake system can lead to uneven transfer film deposits. Most brake pad compounds will take up to 300-400 miles to fully develop an even film transfer onto the rotors.

Also, before installing new rotors, the hub mounting surface must be cleaned of any rust, scale, or debris and the rotors should be checked for excessive run-out before the caliper and pads are installed. If a rotor has excessive run-out of over .004" (.10mm) it should be replaced. Do not install and drive using the rotor. Rotor manufacturers will not warranty a used rotor for excessive run-out.

The following are recommended bed-in procedures per manufacturer:

AKEBONO

400 to 500 miles of moderate driving is recommended. Heavy braking should be avoided during this period.

ATE

400 to 500 miles of moderate driving is recommended. Heavy braking should be avoided during this period.

BREMBO GRAN TURISMO

In a safe area, apply brakes moderately from 60mph to 30mph and then drive approximately 1/2 mile to allow the brakes to cool. Repeat this procedure approximately 30 times.

HAWK

After installing new pads make 6 to 10 stops from approximately 35 mph with moderate pressure. Make an additional two to three hard stops from approximately 40 to 45 mph. Do not allow the vehicle to come to a complete stop. When completed with this process, park the vehicle and allow the brakes to cool completely before driving on them again. Do not engage the parking brake until after this cooling process is compete.

Note: Hawk racing pads (Blue, Black, HT, DTC, and ER) may require a different bed-in procedure. Contact your sales specialists at the Tire Rack for racing application information.

POWER SLOT

400 to 500 miles of moderate driving is recommended. Heavy braking should be avoided during this period.