How to replace front discs and brake pads

As automotive technology evolves, and with it customer expectations for a quieter more relaxing ride, noise, vibration and harshness (NVH) reducing technologies are becoming a must...

Since every car is different, and every driver is different, what is right for one, might not work quite as well for the other. And vice versa. That’s why our engineers consider many variables when developing a new brake disc, based on the application, its intended use, driver preference and a plethora of other technical requirements...

Given their makeup, cast iron brake discs are susceptible to corrosion from road salt, dirt and water. Many brands claim to offer protection from the elements, but just like the coats we wear – regular, showerproof, storm-proof - there are many different options, each offering different levels of defense.

You know that annoying sound you get when you pull up at the lights? Could be a high pitch squeal, screech, groan or rattle? Well that’s brake noise and it can be one of the first signs that something is wrong with your brakes. It’s also one of the biggest sources of customer comebacks for any garage.

We’re shouting loud about our recent noise tests. Why? Because it’s the only noise you’re going to hear from Delphi brake pads!

Premature fuel pump issues can be avoided with a quick visual check-up. Save future time and trouble using this guide.

Automotive technicians need to stay up to date with the latest technologies and techniques to provide the best service for customers. But sometimes the vehicle repairs you’re currently working on can’t afford to wait months for your next official course.

Performing any maintenance on a high-voltage system can be extremely hazardous, so it’s important to have the right training and follow the proper safety procedures.

Discover how to calibrate an EGR valve in this How-to video, as our Delphi expert goes through the process using a DS480 BlueTech Diagnostic Tester Car Kit.

Replacing a fuel pump can become a costly mistake if it is not the true cause of a fuel related problem.

Responsible for stopping vehicles quicker than ever before, brake pads are one of the most important components in the braking system. And is why there’s no compromise when it comes to choosing one.  As a leading Tier-1 OE manufacturer, our brake pads are designed, manufactured and tested to the meet the same standards of performance as the OE.  We call it Delphi “Five Layers of Quality”… and we build these into every one of our brake pads. But don’t just take our word for it – recent tests have proven that our pads stop quicker, brake quieter and last longer too. 

Simply put, the master cylinder generates hydraulic pressure that is transmitted via the brake fluid to either the wheel cylinder, in drum brakes, or the brake caliper, in disc brakes. These cylinders then exert mechanical pressure on the shoes or pads, and ultimately stop the vehicle. Checking these parts regularly and fitting only OE quality parts is therefore vital - anything less could compromise the vehicle’s braking performance and safety. With iron and aluminum castings, anodized coatings and OE spec seals and dust plugs, Delphi offers a full range of master, slave and wheel cylinders for reliable and long-lasting performance.

Whilst it’s unlikely you’ll ever need to replace the entire caliper, they can seize over time. When this happens, the caliper will not be able to fully retract the brake pad from the disc, creating friction even when the brakes are not applied. This can cause many problems including brake drag, brake overheat and hot spots on the brake discs, so it goes without saying that you’ll want to look after them. With a little bit of TLC you can help ensure the caliper lasts the life of the vehicle, as well as prevent potentially irreparable damage to both the pads and discs. Cue Delphi’s caliper slider kits. Available for both right and left calipers, each kit includes new sliders, seals, slider lubricating grease and mounting bolts… everything you need for a professional and efficient caliper service.

From January 2025, US legislation will dictate that brake pads must contain no more than 0.5% copper, whilst still meeting the same rigorous safety standards.  Just like vehicles fitted with Delphi brakes, we have stopped sooner.

The addition of electronic controls has made braking systems much safer and smarter. It’s no longer a matter of just stopping quickly. Nowadays how you stop, and even anticipating the need to stop, is just as important. That’s why our extensive braking line-up has been designed, engineered and manufactured to mirror the OE. So, not only do we stop just as quick as the OE, sometimes even quicker, we do it in complete control too. With the backing of expert diagnostics, training and technical support, you can count on Delphi to meet all your braking needs.

Technology such as anti-lock brakes (ABS) and electronic stability are now common place thanks to the ABS sensor or wheel speed sensor. A small device, it has a big role to play; monitoring the wheel’s speed and rotation to prevent the brakes from locking. So, it’s important to always fit an OE quality part - anything less could compromise the effectiveness of these safety critical systems. Featuring weather pack connectors and plated pins, and rigorously tested to OE standards, Delphi ABS sensors deliver optimum signal stability and reliability in all conditions, for an accurate, long-lasting sensor that you can fit with confidence.

The lesser known cousin to the brake disc, brake drums work on the same principles as their front wheel equivalent. And although they’re subject to less braking force – over two-thirds occurs at the front – brake drums contribution to the vehicle’s safety should never be underestimated. In fact, rear brakes are essential for the stability and control of the vehicle, the functionality of the handbrake, and of course, stopping power. That’s why every drum brake we make is engineered to exacting OE standards for exceptional braking performance time and time again.

Brake fluid is one of the most important parts of the braking system, yet it is often overlooked. Also known as hydraulic fluid, it transfers the force created when you press the brake pedal, through the system, and onto the wheel hub. Ultimately stopping the vehicle. Without it, you simply wouldn’t be able to do so. Since there’s never a good time for this to happen, choosing a high-performance fluid, formulated for the application, such as Delphi, is a must.

Spring showers, humid summers, and cold, wet and icy winters – they can all take their toll on your vehicle. Factors such as rain, snow, salt and other road sprays can result in corrosion. That means, exposed parts, such as brake discs can quickly become rusty - not a good look when you want to show off your shiny alloy wheels. One way to help prevent this is by fitting Delphi coated discs. 

Brake pads are one of the most important parts of any braking system, contributing to over 70 percent of the overall stopping power, so you’ll want to fit a quality brand that’s up to the job. As a leading Tier-1 OE manufacturer, every part of our brake pad is designed, manufactured and tested to the meet the same standards of performance, consistency and longevity as the OE. From the back plate to the friction surface and everything in between. We call it Delphi “Five Layers of Quality.”

Responsible for transmitting the hydraulic pressure to the brake calipers or wheel cylinders, the brake hose effectively turns pedal action into stopping power. Fitting anything less than an OE quality part, could result in reduced stopping power, or worse still, complete brake failure. That’s why we build 90 years of hydraulic braking expertise into every hose we make. Featuring a multi-layer construction and robust connections, Delphi brake hoses deliver outstanding strength, flexibility and durability, just like the OE.

The mechanical and thermal stresses acting on the brake disc are extremely high. So it’s important they’re up to the job, and perform just as intended. Like all of our braking products, our discs are made to mirror the OE. So whatever the technology, you can be assured that every Delphi disc has been designed, engineered and manufactured to provide the very best braking performance. Just like the OE. Be it coated, cross drilled or high-carbon…it’s a given.

With a 15%+ weight reduction and enhanced anti-corrosion Magni coating, our bimetallic discs enable improved performance, lower fuel consumption, and reduced CO2 emissions - offering your customers a lighter, quieter and more efficient braking solution that’s made to last. Whether it’s parts, tools, support or training… We’ve got your back.  

Quality. Everyone says they have it. But the reality is not everyone does. With the introduction of R90 legislation for brake discs and drums it will be clear for all to see who has. And conversely who hasn't. So let’s take a look at what R90 is and why it’s so important….