Brakes - Squeaks May Be Normal Performance

Group
4

Number
8906

Model
All

Part Identifier
4636

October 6, 1989

Subject:
Brake Squeak

The brake components on Porsche automobiles are subject to many demands. Optimum deceleration from high speed, high wear resistance, and limited noise under all operating conditions are design challenges which must now be met with yet another condition - asbestos-free brake pads. Safety always has priority over other considerations such as noise.

Brake squeak is frequently believed to be a symptom of defective or worn brake pads. Actually, brake noise can develop in perfectly good and relatively new brakes. Driving styles and atmospheric conditions such as humidity can contribute to brake squeak.

For example, when decelerating from lower speeds, as in city driving, the brake pads become glazed which may then cause squeaking. This condition does not impair the operation nor performance of the brake system.

The brake system design must be a compromise between deceleration behavior, reliability, wear, and comfort. Presently no brake pads are available for Porsche vehicles which fulfill 100% of all requirements; however, research with brake manufacturers is continuing.

Porsche brake systems use friction materials developed to meet a high level of performance under a wide range of operating conditions. Porsche does not recommend substitution of other than original equipment brake pads in attempts to correct brake squeak. Brake squeak under certain conditions must be considered normal at this time.