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What does it mean for a brake pad to comply with ECE R90?
In SDT Brakes we are clear: when it comes to brakes, homologation is not a secondary detail, it is the foundation of safety. One of the key regulations in Europe is the ECE R90, which regulates the minimum performance standards for brake pads intended for public roads.
Today we want to explain what this certification entails, what tests it requires, and why not all brands meet this standard.
What is ECE R90 and which products does it apply to?
The ECE R90 is a European regulation that establishes the minimum requirements for replacement brake pads to legally operate on the road.
- Requires equivalence tests against original equipment (OEM).
- Regulates parameters such as the coefficient of friction, temperature, pressure, and wear.
- The aim is that, when changing the pads, the vehicle’s behavior remains safe, stable, and equivalent to factory standards.
Necessary tests to obtain homologation
For ECE R90 pads to be certified, they must pass an exhaustive process that includes:
- Bench tests: verification of the coefficient of friction in cold and hot conditions, wear resistance, and stability under pressure.
- In-vehicle tests: braking under real driving conditions, simulating different road scenarios.
- External certification: validation by authorized independent laboratories, which grant the official homologation seal.
Why are some pads not compliant?
Not all pads on the market are homologated under ECE R90. Common reasons include:
- Lack of investment in R&D: manufacturers that do not develop compounds capable of passing the tests.
- Generic production: without quality control, compromising safety.
- Competition-specific products: designed for racing and not legal for road use.