Why is it essential to have your brakes approved under ECE R90?

In the automotive world, brakes are one of the most critical components for safety. Therefore, it's not enough that they “work well”; they must comply with strict regulations that ensure their performance, quality, and reliability. This is where the ECE R90 homologation comes into play, a key certification if you want to install approved brake pads that meet current legal standards and European safety regulations.

What is the ECE R90 regulation and why does it exist?

The ECE R90 is a European regulation that establishes the technical and quality criteria that brake components (pads and discs) intended for the replacement market must meet. This regulation was introduced to prevent low-quality or falsified parts from risking road safety.

Since its implementation, any brake pad sold as a replacement for new vehicles must be homologated under ECE R90. This guarantees that its performance is comparable to the original equipment (OEM) in terms of braking, wear, thermal resistance, and noise.

How is a brake pad tested and certified?

To obtain ECE R90 approval, brake pads must pass a series of laboratory tests and road trials conducted by independent certifying entities.

• Comparative performance tests (against OEM pads).
• Wear tests at different temperatures.
• Compression testing and behavior under overheating conditions.
• Noise, vibration, and braking comfort measurement.

Some, like those from SDT Brakes, include the additional seal “N Leafmark,” a recognized quality mark in the sector.

Difference between certified and non-certified brakes

The difference can be crucial: uncertified pads may present:

• Greater wear and the need for more frequent replacements.
• Irregular or inefficient braking.
• Higher risk of accidents in extreme conditions (rain, heat, load).
• Fines or legal issues during ITV or technical inspections.

Additionally, lack of homologation may imply that the pads have a questionable origin or are even counterfeits.

SDT Brakes models with ECE R90 and “N Leafmark”

At SDT Brakes, we offer a wide range of brake pads approved under ECE R90, designed to meet the highest standards of the European market.

Among the compounds that meet this regulation, you'll find:

• S50 and S50+: aimed at sports and high-performance street vehicles.
• S50C: specially formulated for commercial vehicles and campers, where weight and durability are key.

All these models are tested under the ECE R90 protocol and feature the “N Leafmark” badge, ensuring their legal and technical validity both in Europe and in international markets that adopt this regulation.

Legal and safety risks of not homologating

Using non-homologated pads can be costly, and not just financially. Some consequences include:

• Failing the ITV due to the use of uncertified components.
• Loss of vehicle warranty or insurance coverage in case of an accident.
• Direct legal liability in case of brake failure.
• Fines for installing non-compliant parts during technical inspections.

Moreover, lack of homologation might mean the pads have questionable origins or are even counterfeits.

Conclusion

Ensuring your brakes are homologated is not a minor detail; it’s a decision that affects your safety, your wallet, and your legal compliance. Choosing homologated ECE R90 brake pads like those we offer at SDT Brakes is a guarantee of quality, reliability, and peace of mind.

Check out our full catalog of homologated pads and take the next step toward safer and legal braking.