Three brake pad brands have been asked to remove their products from sale after failing new compliance checks by the Driver and Vehicle Standards Agency (DVSA).
A total of eight brands were tested for both performance and labelling in accordance with UNECE 90 Regulation. Using the registration number of the host vehicle for correct component selection, the compatible components were selected. Each brake pad was then tested to R90 standards and associated performance requirements where there is a tolerance of +/- 15 percent of the OEM.
Of those tested, three brands were found to be non-compliant, after failing to meet performance requirements. Further findings showed that approval documents for the three failed components were false, and that the component and associated packaging were incorrect as they displayed an approval number that was not valid for that particular application.
“The findings from this work have proved that the current quality systems used by these producers and distributors have allowed the sale of incorrect brake pads,” Ian Bartlett, Senior Engineer, Vehicle Safety & Market Surveillance Unit at the DVSA told the Independent Automotive Aftermarket Federation (IAAF). “We will use this period to educate the market to ensure that corrective action can be taken to prevent further occurrence.”
The brands involved have not been revealed, but have been instructed to withdraw the brake pads from sale until the proper approvals have been granted and the relevant approval authority has also been notified of the incorrect use of their approval.
“It is clear that more work needs to be done on re-educating parts of the market on the requirements of regulation R90, both for pads and discs, something which IAAF will look to support the market with in the coming months,” added IAAF chief executive Mark Field. “It is also evident from DVSA that every business in the supply chain – garages, motor factors, suppliers – has a responsibility to ensure the parts they sell and fit meet the regulations for which they were intended.”
