Equipment Performance Report: 2000 Evaluation of Replacement Brake Pads for Police Patrol Vehicles

• NCJ Number: 186112
• Date Published: February 2001
• Length: 202 pages
• Grant Number(s): 96-MU-MU-K011
• Agencies: NIJ-Sponsored
• Publication Type: Test/Measurement; Report (Technical)

Annotation

This report presents data from the 2000 evaluation of the performance of police patrol car replacement brake pads under various conditions.

Abstract

The major manufacturers of replacement brake pads for police patrol vehicles were invited to submit samples of brake pads for evaluation. A total of 12 brands of brake pads were submitted for testing on the Ford Police Interceptor, and 10 brands were tested on the Chevrolet Impala. In addition, the original factory-installed brake pads for each of the test cars were tested. One test determined stopping performance when the entire brake system was at, or slightly above, ambient (cold) rather than normal or optimal temperature. Such a condition is likely when brake applications are infrequent or when the vehicle has been parked for several hours prior to brake usage. Brake pads were also tested under normal or optimal operating temperature. This is the temperature condition for brakes used on normal patrol while driving at normal speeds. A third type of test measured stopping performance under the simulated condition of hot pursuit, which involved severe high-temperature operating conditions. Brake performance under the antilock braking mode was also measured in a panic stop, which involved severe high-temperature operating conditions. Test methods and performance scores are presented for each test condition. Score sheets compare the various brake pads' performance in the test categories but do not identify any overall "winner" or "loser." Individual agencies must identify the most suitable brake pads for their patrol vehicles based on their own driving conditions and needs. Extensive tables and figures and an appended analysis to determine statistical significance