Brakes are not just another replacement part; they are a vehicle safety system in which every decision matters. At SKF Vehicle Aftermarket, we approach brakes with one core objective: risk reduction. We know that for mechanics, the focus is not only on fitting new pads and discs but on ensuring the vehicle leaves the workshop safer than it arrived.
SKF Brake pads and discs
Understanding brake discs: performance, wear and common failure modes
Brake discs are engineered to withstand extreme thermal and mechanical loads, often reaching temperatures between 200 and 400°C in normal use, and up to 500°C in extreme conditions. This heat, if unmanaged, leads to fading, deformation, and accelerated wear.
Beyond natural wear, several factors significantly shorten disc service life:
• Significant overheating: often caused by long descents and continuous brake safeguarding.
• Disc deformation: due to overheating, insufficient thickness, uneven pad contact or contaminants such as sand.
• Improper installation: one of the most common yet avoidable causes of premature failure.
Two installation errors directly affecting bearing life and road safety
As highlighted in SKF technical assessments, the two most frequent installation mistakes are:
1. Incorrect disc seating on the hub: Caused by irregular surfaces, corrosion, old grease, or unnecessary pastes. The hub flange must always be clean, degreased and free of contaminants.
2. Inadequate hub cleaning: Even minimal rust or dirt can create misalignment, generating runout that may damage the wheel bearing and affect braking comfort.
Incorrect tightening of wheel bolts and failure to measure disc runout further increase risks.
Common damage such as cracking and scoring often results from improper fitting or neglected caliper maintenance.
Brake pads: advanced technology to reduce risk
SKF brake pads use scorching technology & benefit from coated treatment to ensure optimal surface contact from the very first brake application, reducing initial stopping distances by up to 20%. Ceramic additives help minimise dust, noise and wear, providing consistent performance even under high temperatures.
Brake care: what mechanics must consider
A safe brake service requires more than replacing pads and discs. SKF recommends:
• Checking pad wear sensors.
• Inspecting brake fluid condition and replacing it every 2 years or 30,000–50,000 km.
• Verifying caliper operation, including guides, pistons and seals.
• Ensuring glide points are clean and free from corrosion.
• Inspecting ABS function.
• For EVs, choosing pads designed for heavier vehicle weight and regenerative braking patterns.
Brake pads for EVs
Electric vehicles place very different demands on the braking system, and pads need to be engineered accordingly. EVs are heavier, and regenerative braking changes how friction brakes are used, often leaving pads exposed to higher shear forces and increased corrosion. To meet these conditions, SKF offers dedicated EV brake pads featuring a mechanical retention grip that strengthens resistance against shear loads generated by the extra vehicle weight. This ensures stable braking performance, dependable durability, and the safety margin needed for modern electric mobility.
Pads and discs: working together as a system
Brake performance relies on the synergy between pad and disc. Neglected calipers, poor lubrication, or contaminated glide points lead to uneven and excessive wear. During seasonal tyre changes, twice a year, mechanics should combine pad and disc inspection to prevent long-term safety issues.
SKF encourages mechanics to evaluate the entire braking system, using proper tools and installation procedures. When the hub, disc, pad and bearing interact correctly, vehicles operate smoother, safer and more comfortably.
Choosing SKF brake pads and discs means choosing a risk-reduction solution, backed by chassis expertise, advanced materials and clear technical guidance designed for real workshop conditions.