1. Product Overview
This manual provides essential information for the proper installation, operation, and maintenance of your Valeo 601332 Brake Pads. These brake pads are designed for specific vehicle applications to ensure optimal braking performance and safety.
Image: The green and white packaging box for Valeo Brake Pads, highlighting the 'Brake Pads' branding and a visual of the brake pad itself. The box indicates 'x4' pads are included. For more product information, scan the QR code on the packaging or visit Valeo Drive.
2. Safety Information
WARNING: Brake system components are critical for vehicle safety. Improper installation or maintenance can lead to serious injury or death. Always consult a qualified mechanic if you are unsure about any installation steps. Wear appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves and eye protection during installation.
Brake dust may contain hazardous materials. Avoid inhaling brake dust and dispose of old brake pads according to local regulations.
3. Specifications
The Valeo 601332 Brake Pads are manufactured to precise standards for reliable performance.
| Feature | Value |
|---|---|
| Manufacturer | Valeo |
| Brand | Valeo |
| Model | Valeo 601332 Brake Pads |
| Item Weight | 1.03 Kilograms |
| Product Dimensions (L x W x H) | 9.9 x 6.75 x 6.75 cm |
| Item Model Number | 601332 |
| Manufacturer Part Number | 601332 |
| OEM Part Number | 8979474660 |
| Position | Front |
| Vehicle Service Type | Vehicle Specific |
| International Article Code | 03276426013321 |
| Number of Items | 1 (set) |
| Thickness | 16.00 mm |
| Height 1 | 60.70 mm |
| Diameter 2 | 215 mm |
Image: A detailed line drawing illustrating the dimensions and shape of the Valeo 601332 brake pads, including two main pads and two sets of four smaller components, likely shims or clips.
4. Vehicle Compatibility
Before installation, it is crucial to verify that these brake pads are compatible with your specific vehicle model. Using incompatible parts can compromise vehicle safety and performance.
Image: An illustration demonstrating how to check vehicle compatibility using the Amazon 'Confirmed Fit' feature. It shows examples of 'Corresponds' (Matches) and 'Does not correspond' (Does not match) indicators after entering a vehicle's registration number.
You can often verify compatibility by entering your vehicle's registration number on the product page where you purchased the item, looking for a "Confirmed Fit" indicator. Always cross-reference with your vehicle's service manual or a professional mechanic if unsure.
5. Installation Guide
Note: Installation of brake pads requires mechanical knowledge and specialized tools. If you are not confident in your abilities, seek professional assistance. Refer to your vehicle's specific service manual for detailed instructions and torque specifications.
- Preparation:
- Park the vehicle on a level, firm surface and engage the parking brake.
- Loosen the lug nuts on the wheel(s) where brake pads will be replaced.
- Lift the vehicle safely using a jack and secure it with appropriate jack stands.
- Remove the wheel(s).
- Accessing the Caliper:
- Locate the brake caliper assembly.
- Depending on your vehicle, you may need to remove caliper guide pin bolts to swing the caliper open or remove it entirely.
- Removing Old Pads:
- Carefully remove the old brake pads from the caliper bracket. Note their orientation for reference.
- Inspect the brake rotor for wear, scoring, or warping. Replace if necessary.
- Clean the caliper and caliper bracket thoroughly, removing any rust or debris with a wire brush.
- Installing New Pads:
- Use a brake caliper piston compression tool to push the caliper piston(s) back into the caliper body. This creates space for the new, thicker pads.
- Apply a thin layer of high-temperature brake lubricant to the contact points between the brake pads and the caliper bracket (where the metal backing plate touches the caliper hardware). Do not apply lubricant to the friction material.
- Install the new Valeo 601332 brake pads into the caliper bracket, ensuring they are correctly seated and oriented.
- Reassemble the caliper, tightening all bolts to the vehicle manufacturer's specified torque.
- Final Steps:
- Reinstall the wheel(s) and tighten lug nuts hand-tight.
- Lower the vehicle and torque the lug nuts to the vehicle manufacturer's specifications.
- Before driving, pump the brake pedal several times until it feels firm. This will seat the caliper pistons against the new pads.
- Check the brake fluid reservoir level and top up if necessary with the correct type of brake fluid.
6. Operating and Bedding-In
After installing new brake pads, a proper "bedding-in" procedure is essential for optimal performance, reduced noise, and increased longevity. This process transfers a thin, even layer of friction material to the brake rotor surface.
- Drive the vehicle at a moderate speed (e.g., 30-40 mph or 50-60 km/h).
- Apply the brakes moderately (not hard) to slow down to about 10 mph (15 km/h). Do not come to a complete stop.
- Release the brakes and accelerate back to the initial speed. Allow a few minutes between stops for the brakes to cool slightly.
- Repeat this process 8-10 times.
- After the initial bedding, drive normally for a few days, avoiding sudden hard braking or prolonged heavy braking.
During the bedding-in process, you may notice a slight burning smell or temporary reduction in braking effectiveness. This is normal and will subside as the pads bed in.
7. Maintenance
Regular inspection and maintenance of your brake system are crucial for safety and optimal performance of your Valeo brake pads.
- Visual Inspection: Periodically inspect the brake pads for wear. Most pads have wear indicators that will produce a squealing sound when they are nearing the end of their lifespan, signaling the need for replacement.
- Rotor Condition: Check brake rotors for excessive wear, deep grooves, or cracks. Rotors should be replaced or resurfaced if they are below minimum thickness or show significant damage.
- Brake Fluid: Ensure brake fluid is at the correct level and is clean. Brake fluid absorbs moisture over time, which can reduce braking performance. Consult your vehicle's manual for recommended brake fluid type and change intervals.
- Professional Check: Have your entire brake system professionally inspected at least once a year or during routine vehicle servicing to ensure all components are functioning correctly.
8. Troubleshooting Common Issues
This section addresses common issues you might encounter with your brake pads. If these solutions do not resolve the problem, consult a qualified mechanic.
| Symptom | Possible Cause | Solution |
|---|---|---|
| Squealing Noise | Worn pads (wear indicator), improper bedding-in, foreign object, lack of lubricant on contact points. | Replace pads if worn, re-perform bedding-in procedure, inspect and remove debris, apply brake lubricant to appropriate areas. |
| Grinding Noise | Severely worn pads (metal-on-metal contact), large foreign object lodged in caliper. | Immediately replace pads and inspect rotors for damage. Remove any foreign objects. |
| Vibration or Pulsation during Braking | Warped brake rotors, uneven pad wear, loose caliper components. | Inspect and replace or resurface rotors. Ensure proper pad installation and caliper assembly. |
| Soft or Spongy Brake Pedal | Air in brake lines, low brake fluid level, faulty master cylinder or brake lines. | Bleed brake lines to remove air, check and top up brake fluid level. Consult a mechanic for master cylinder or line issues. |
| Vehicle Pulls to One Side when Braking | Uneven brake pad wear, seized caliper piston, contaminated brake pad, collapsed brake hose. | Inspect and replace pads, service or replace caliper, replace contaminated pad, inspect brake hoses. |
9. Warranty and Support
For warranty information regarding your Valeo 601332 Brake Pads, please refer to the documentation provided with your purchase or contact Valeo customer support directly. Keep your proof of purchase for any warranty claims.
For technical assistance, product inquiries, or to find authorized service centers, please visit the official Valeo website or contact their customer service department through the contact information provided on their website.
Image: An image showcasing a range of Valeo brake system components, including brake discs, brake pads in their packaging, brake shoes, and bottles of brake fluid, illustrating the breadth of Valeo's product line.
