What is ECE regulation 90?

ECE regulation 90 is a European approval standard for brake components that requires manufacturers to guarantee that brake pads conform to OE (original equipment) standards of performance & quality. This performance is tested by the regulating authorities against the standards contained within the European legislation which is known as ECE Regulation 90-1.

All products found to comply with this standard are then allowed and must show this qualification which is denoted by an E mark on the product and packaging. Throughout Europe all brake pads must carry this mark or they cannot be sold or used. Australia is a signature to this standard and it will become part of our legislation in the near future.

How is the standard achieved?

To achieve the E standard brake pads must conform to three key areas of regulation:

1. Production
The production plant must conform to acceptable control standards such as ISO9002 and carry out conformity of production tests on friction, shear and compressibility.

2. Performance
Brake pads must be tested through a combination of independently witnessed vehicle and/or dynamometer procedures to assess compatibility to the OE pad, speed sensitivity and product integrity. The aftermarket pad must conform within 10% of the performance of the OE pads performance range ie 90% performance capability to OE-REG90.

3. Packaging
Boxes and pads must be marked with a defined set of information, such as the approval number and the applications for which the pads are approved. The box containing the product must be tamper proof and contain a fitting instruction in the language of the country in which it is to be sold.

REG 90 is obligatory throughout Europe and it is illegal to sell any product that does not meet or exceed the standard. The E standard ensures that the company’s production conforms to total quality requirements and that the technical performance of the brake pads is equivalent to that demanded for OE equipment.