Why are my disc brakes not gripping?

As brake pads and rotors sit dormant they can glaze and harden and this is a leading cause of brake squeal. Likewise, glazed and hardened pads also lose their friction and grab.

Are rim brakes truly dead? "I think [rim brakes aren't dead] at the moment, there are still rim brake bikes around, but if you look at the latest technology it is all disc really", says Feather. "The weights are coming down and the margins are pretty small", says Feather. So, there you have it.

March 1, 2024

Do you have to bleed brakes after changing discs and pads?

Yes, bleeding the brakes is typically recommended after changing discs and pads, especially if the brake fluid was exposed to air during the process. Bleeding the brakes ensures that any air bubbles trapped in the brake lines are removed, which can improve brake performance and safety. It’s an essential step to maintain proper brake function and ensure there’s no sponginess or inconsistency in the brake pedal feel. Always refer to the specific vehicle’s manual or consult a qualified mechanic for the correct procedure for your car model.

Do you need to bleed brakes when changing discs and pads?

Technically, bleeding the brakes is not always necessary when changing discs and pads. However, it’s a good practice to bleed the brakes if:

The brake fluid was drained or disturbed during the process.
Air entered the brake lines while replacing the pads or discs.

If the brake fluid reservoir wasn’t opened and the brake system wasn’t disturbed, bleeding might not be required. However, it’s still a good idea to inspect the brake fluid level and condition after any brake maintenance. If in doubt or if you’re unsure about the condition of your brake system, it’s always best to err on the side of caution and bleed the brakes to ensure optimal performance and safety.

What happens if you don’t bed in disc brakes

“Bedding in” disc brakes refers to the process of properly mating the brake pads to the rotors through controlled heat cycling. If you don’t bed in disc brakes properly, several issues can arise:

Reduced braking performance: Proper bedding ensures that the brake pads and rotors form a smooth and even contact surface. Without this process, braking performance may be compromised, leading to longer stopping distances and less effective braking.
Uneven pad wear: Failure to bed in the brakes can result in uneven pad wear. This can lead to premature pad wear on certain areas of the rotor or pad, reducing the overall lifespan of the brake components and potentially causing noise or vibration.
Increased likelihood of brake noise: Unbedded brake pads may exhibit squealing or squeaking noises during braking. This noise is often caused by uneven pad deposits on the rotor surface, which can occur without proper bedding.
Potential for brake judder or vibration: Improperly bedded brakes may result in brake judder or vibration, especially during heavy braking. This can be caused by uneven pad deposits or poor mating between the pads and rotors.

In summary, failing to bed in disc brakes properly can lead to reduced braking performance, uneven pad wear, increased brake noise, and potential brake judder or vibration. It’s essential to follow the manufacturer’s recommendations for bedding in new brake pads and rotors to ensure optimal brake performance and longevity.