The FTC brake guide

Pressing the pedal moves a piston in the master cylinder, which sends brake fluid under pressure to each wheel. At a disc brake, the caliper squeezes two pads against a spinning disc. At a drum brake, hydraulic pressure pushes two curved shoes outward against the inside of a drum. Either way, friction converts the vehicle's motion into heat and the wheel slows.

Because friction is doing all the work, the friction material is the part that wears. Pads, shoes and lining are consumables, while discs and drums wear more slowly but still need checking.

• Squealing or squeaking when you brake lightly.
• A grinding noise, which can mean the friction material is gone.
• A longer stopping distance or a pedal that feels softer than usual.
• Vibration through the pedal or steering wheel when braking.
• A brake warning light on the dashboard.
• Friction material that looks thin when you inspect it through the wheel.

If you notice any of these, have your brakes inspected by a qualified technician promptly.

Match the pad to the vehicle and how it is used. Ceramic pads such as FTC Premium give low dust and quiet, long-lasting braking for everyday cars and SUVs. Performance street pads such as FTC Pro give strong bite from cold. Semi-metallic pads such as FTC CV are made for the loads and temperatures of commercial vehicles.

Whatever you choose, fit the right size and type for your make, model and year, and replace pads on both wheels of an axle together.

Follow the vehicle manufacturer's and the part supplier's instructions for fitting. Clean, true surfaces and correct hardware help new pads and shoes bed in evenly. Replace discs and drums when they are worn beyond their limits, and fit new pads or shoes at the same time.

After fitting, avoid harsh braking for the first few kilometres or as instructed, so the friction surfaces can bed in.

Drive smoothly and anticipate traffic. Have brake fluid checked and changed at the intervals your vehicle maker recommends. Choose parts made for your load and use. FTC products typically last between 40,000 and 70,000 km in normal driving conditions.