February 2020

40 AFTERMARKET FEBRUARY 2020 BRAKING www.aftermarketonline.net much heat in the discs. Sufficient bedding-in by the driver then needs to be carried out to gradually build up heat in the discs and pad compound to a point where a thin layer of pad material is laid down smoothly and evenly onto the disc surface, minimising the onset of judder.” He added: “As the bedding-in period lasts up to 400 miles, technicians should advise their customers to avoid heavy braking during this time, unless in an emergency, as rapid heat build-up can create thermal shocks, causing surface cracks. When bedding-in new pads and discs, it is also important to avoid sitting stationary with the brakes firmly applied, this can create hotspots, especially if the braking system hasn’t had sufficient time to cool down. The hotspots can create an uneven surface resulting in DTV.” Brake wear sensors There is more to brakes than discs and pads, but you already knew that. Tim Brotherton, ELTA Automotive Marketing Manager said: “The brake pad wear sensor is a simple component that plays a critical role in vehicle safety. There are numerous factors that affect how quickly brake pads wear. Variables such as driving style, road conditions, what kind of roads are generally used and at what speeds they are travelled, as well as pad and disc compounds all make it difficult to predict the lifespan of the brake pad. “Due to the importance of their reliability and accuracy, brake pad wear sensors should be inspected regularly and changed if there are any signs of damage to the clips or wiring. They should also be replaced as a matter of course, every time the brake pads are changed and, as they are a relatively inexpensive component, it makes perfect sense to replace them while work is carried out on the vehicle’s brakes. On completion of the pad/sensor replacement, technicians need to remember to reset the brake life service indicator before undertaking a test drive. Tim added: “Through our rapidly expanding VXPRO range, ELTA Automotive offers a comprehensive range of 157 brake wear sensors, covering more than 2,500 applications for in excess of 11.8 million vehicles. Each is naturally designed and engineered to meet the specific demands of aftermarket professionals for original equipment matching performance. The UK’s most popular sensor is for the Mercedes Sprinter and Vito (VXPRO part number EA5020), followed by the Mercedes A-Class, C-Class and S-Class (EA5025).” Left: ELTA brake wear sensors Textar: Brake pads for Volvo S60 Textar was first to market with brake pads for the new Volvo S60. Textar, which is manufactured by TMD Friction, covers 99.9% of the UK car parc and includes pads, discs, accessories and brake fluid. The range of brakes pads is further complemented by a wide range of brake discs, including high carbon as well as composite discs. www.tmdfriction.com National expands brake discs range National Auto Parts has introduced 11 new fully coated brake discs to its range. Vehicles now covered include: BMW 1/2/3/4 series M Sport (2011-), Mercedes C-Class (2013 -), VW Polo (2017-), Toyota Prius (2015-), Mazda CX5 (2015-), Vauxhall Insignia Mk2 (2017-), Audi S1 Quattro (2014-) and Ford Transit Custom MK8 (2015-). Discs come with a silver-grey finish. The coating also provides protection against corrosion. . www.national-auto.co.uk