General Brake/Tip Information

Brake systems must provide optimum braking performance under various driving conditions. One of the most important components in the brake system is the brake pad material. The following are affected by brake pad material characteristics:

- Stopping distance

- Operating temperatures

- Brake pedal effort

- Brake pad and rotor wear

- Moisture resistance

- Friction coefficient stability

- Operating noise

Higher brake operating noise levels may occur as a result of optimizing factors that ensure brake operational performance.

Brake noises such as squealing, squeaking and grinding may result in questions by customers, but some of these noises are normal. Almost all disc brake noises are caused by vibration of pads and calipers as the pads slide against the rotors to stop the vehicle. The following "Tips" may be helpful in resolving brake noise conditions:

- Always listen to the customer's comments thoroughly.

- Do not attempt to repair a brake noise condition without verifying it first.

- Rear brake noise may sometimes be mistaken for front brake noise,

- If possible, verify the brake noise condition both with and without the driver side window down.

- Always check for the latest available information on the condition (Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs), Tech Net Times, etc.).