Information: BRAKE NOISE
Models: ALL
Date: 8/21/91
The individual components of the braking system used on Alfa Romeo vehicles are subjected to many different demands. Optimum deceleration, resistance to wear, and minimum noise under all driving conditions are some of the vital concerns of Alfa Romeo in the selection of brake pad materials. The recent introduction of asbestos-free friction materials represents an added challenge.
Brake noise or squeak is frequently believed to be a symptom of defective or worn brake pads. Actually this type of brake noise can develop in perfectly good and relatively new brakes. Driving styles and environmental conditions (air temperature, humidity, rain, snow, salt, etc.) can contribute to brake squeak. As an example, during slow city driving brake dust is not readily vented away from the brake pads. This can eventually contribute to glazing of the pads, which may then cause squeaking.
Although intermittent brake squeak can be very annoying, it does not necessarily threaten the safety or performance of the braking system. Alfa Romeo uses brake pad friction materials developed to provide the best compromise of deceleration potential, fade resistance, useful life, rotor wear, and noise factors. The original equipment pads used by virtually all vehicle manufacturers, including Alfa Romeo, may cause some intermittent braking noise under certain operating conditions. Such noise does not directly indicate any malfunction of the braking system, and should be considered normal.
This brake noise is not unique to Alfa Romeo vehicles. It is an automotive industry concern, and as a result there are many aftermarket brake silencing compounds available. Alfa Romeo does not recommend the use of these compounds, or substitution of other kinds of brake pads to correct a brake noise complaint, since braking performance may be compromised. Although it cannot be permanently eliminated, please contact your District Service/Parts Manager for assistance in minimizing persistent brake noise.
Sincerely,
ALFA ROMEO DISTRIBUTORS OF NORTH AMERICA
Technical Communications Department
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