Brakes 36 November 2026 ǁǁǁ͘ ĂŌĞƌŵĂƌŬĞƚŽŶůŝŶĞ͘ ŶĞƚ If we look at Tesla’s formalised routine to compare the brand’s two saloon cars, we will see a difference in speed and the number of times a braking event needs to take place. The vehicles differ in size, weight, and performance, with the Model S being bigger and heavier, and often having more power depending on the specifications compared. Model S: At 46mph, apply 20-40 Bar pressure ten times (2100kg average vehicle weight) Model 3: At 50mph, apply 20-40 Bar pressure 18 times (1750kg average vehicle weight) Looking at Mercedes Benz brake burnishing advice for AMG models, there are interesting differences between the vehicles fitted with semi-metallic and the carbon-ceramic brake pads. AMG models with semi-metallic brakes have a two-step process. Step 1: Low-speed bedding: Accelerate to approximately 35–40mph. Apply firm, medium pedal pressure to smoothly slow the vehicle down to about 5mph. Repeat this process five to ten times consecutively to build initial heat. Step 2: High-speed bedding: Increase your speed to 45– 50mph. Firmly apply the brakes to slow the car down to 10mph. Do not engage the ABS or bring the car to a complete stop. Repeat this cycle five to seven times. Mercedes Benz AMG models with carbon-ceramic brakes require a completely different process. Brake temperatures need to be below 40°C. Then apply firm, smooth pedal force from 50mph to 30mph at approximately 0.3G using the vehicle’s G-force meter in the menu. Repeat ten to 12 times in rapid succession. After the brake events are finished, the brakes need to be fully cooled by driving for 15 miles uninterrupted to allow the brake system to cool correctly. It is important that during the brake burnishing, the vehicle does not come to a complete stop. The difference is due to carbon-ceramic brakes requiring precise heat cycling to achieve correct transfer of pad material; if this is not done correctly, uneven deposits of pad material can cause brake judder or poor performance later. This is because during bedding there is a greater chance of uneven friction material transfer onto the disc. 2. Avoid very heavy braking where the ABS may operate. 0.3G of deceleration and 30bar pressure at the master cylinder is considered moderate braking. 3. Avoid very high speeds. In England this is legally easy – whereas in Europe or if bedding brakes on a circuit, higher speeds may be more easily achieved. Typically, going from 60-70mph down to 30-50mph is the norm for most manufacturers. Conclusion Technology in the automotive industry is developing quickly. As with all developing technology, maintenance and repair also change. A good garage 20 years ago looks very different from a good garage today; a big part of that change is how work is carried out. Regardless of the fuel type, cost or brand of the vehicle, a good garage today ensures that all work is carried out correctly, following manufacturers’ guidelines and ensuring safety, firstly for the occupants but also for the vehicle itself. So what does carrying out work correctly look like in a modern garage? There are many answers to that question, but a key one is understanding how modern technology differs and appreciating the need to work differently. A garage that can avoid the pitfalls of rapidly evolving vehicle technology by working intelligently is well on its way to being a good garage. And for customers with EV’s, particularly those with strong regenerative braking systems, it should no longer be acceptable to hear advice such as, “just take it easy for the next couple of hundred miles.” www.delphiautoparts.com One brake burnishing process does not fit all
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