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Frequently Asked Questions
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Q: Where can I find an authorized distributor of Hawk Performance disc brake pads?
A: You can find an authorized distributor of Hawk Performance high performance disc brake pads by entering your zip code in the Where to Buy box on the left menu bar. If you are looking for a distributor by name and not by location, simply use the Advanced Search Options feature.
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Q: Does Hawk Performance have a part for my truck or SUV?
A: To search for a part for your vehicle application enter the Year and Make in the Find Part Now box on the left menu bar and hit enter. Select the Model of your vehicle from the drop down menu and hit enter. Hawk Performance part numbers for your specified application will be displayed if available.
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Q: Why should I follow a break-in procedure on new brake pads?
A: Correct brake pad break-in (bedding) is important to assure quality braking performance over the life of the pad. This procedure allows the rubbing surface of the brake pad to be brought to temperatures, creating a transfer-film layer of friction material to be applied to the rotor surface. This allows the brake pad material to rub against itself rather than the bare rotor. This increases the stopping performance of the brake pad and can reduce pad and rotor wear
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Q: What causes breaks to squeal?
A: There are a number of reasons why a person can experience brake noise. Sometimes brake squeal can be an indicator that there is a problem. Maintenance is required if you experience brake squeal for any of the following reasons:
- Lack of friction material (brakes need to be replaced)
- Loose fitting brake in the caliper
- Loose fitting or missing brake hardware (i.e. shims, anti-rattle clips)
- Loose lug nuts or caliper hardware
- Debris caught between the rotor and the surface of the brake pad
- Heat cracked or worn rotors
- Uneven finish on resurfaced rotors
Sometimes a user may experience brake noise when no maintenance is required. We call these NVH (Noise, Vibration and Harshness) issues. Brake squeal is typically caused by vibration between the brake pads, rotors, and brake calipers. Some brands of semi-metallic brakes are more likely to experience brake squeal due to the metallic ingredients in the brake pads. Hawk Performance has a great reputation for being a low noise, high performance pad.
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Q: What can I do during installation to ensure my brakes won't squeal?
A: First, choose Hawk Performance high performance disc brake pads as your upgrade over other aftermarket brake suppliers. The next best steps you can take to avoid having noisy brakes are:
- Turn / machine the rotors (machining off a small layer of the brake rotor to make it smooth again)
- Wash and dry the rotors to rid of debris
- Install the pads securely and according to instruction
- Properly bed-in the pads according to instruction
- Apply a thin layer of a silicone compound called anti-squeal brake lube on the back of the brake pads
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