Burnishing Brakes

Brake pads.

Many manufacturers recommend breaking in their brake pads and shoes for better performance and longer life after installation. This process is often called burnishing or bedding in the brakes and varies slightly between manufacturers. It generally involves a procedure of 30 slow stops from 30 mph with a 30-second or so cool down.

Burnishing brake pads

This process ensures the vehicle will have a long-lasting, noise-free brake job. Not all manufacturers recommend burnishing replacement pads. Brake pads come in many varieties. Still, it's best to avoid breaking in replacement pads with sudden or high-speed stops.