The Complete Guide to Brake Pad Break-In (Bedding Procedure)

New brake pads need break-in (bedding) before full performance.

What Is Bedding?

Transfers pad material onto the rotor and cures binding resins through controlled heating.

Street Procedure

60 km/h moderate braking to 15 km/h, 8-10x. Then 100 km/h firm braking to 15 km/h, 5-6x. Cool down 5-10 min.

Never stop completely during bedding.

Racing Procedure

2-3 warm-up laps at 60%. 3-5 laps at 80%. 3-5 laps at 90%. 2-3 cool-down laps.

Common Mistakes

• Stopping completely (permanent vibration)
• Too hard too soon (green fade)
• Not enough temperature
• Dirty rotors
• Water after bedding (thermal shock)

Bedding Complete When:

• Firm consistent pedal
• No vibration
• Strong predictable bite
• Even pad color
• Uniform rotor appearance