Ferodo brake pads Explained
Introduction – Who is Ferodo?
Ferodo is one of the most respected names in braking technology, with a heritage that goes back over a century. Part of the DRiV Automotive group, Ferodo has been at the forefront of brake development for road cars, motorcycles, and top-level motorsport.
Ferodo Racing brake pads are designed using real-world racing data, advanced friction materials, and extensive track testing. Their range covers everything from light track-day use to endurance racing, GT, touring cars, rally, and single-seaters.
In this article, we’ll explain the main Ferodo Racing brake pads, what they are designed for, and how to choose the right compound based on friction coefficient and operating temperature.
DS2500 (H)
Main applications
Track day, light race use, rear GT
Main features
• Road-style refinement with race material capability
• Withstands heat while maintaining pad life and friction
• Suitable for track days and light racing on many vehicle types
• Average friction coefficient of 0.41
• Working temperature range: 0°–500°C
Simple explanation
DS2500 is the most “user-friendly” performance pad in the Ferodo Racing lineup. It offers smooth engagement, good control, and consistent braking without being overly aggressive. It’s ideal for track-day cars that still need good modulation and comfort.
Important note
DS2500 does NOT have R90 certification and is not recommended for road use in countries where R90 is required.
DSUNO (Z / ZB)
Main applications
Rally, rear GT, Formula, track cars with OE brakes
Main features
• Heavy-duty semi-endurance material
• Very controllable torque output
• Extremely kind to brake discs
• Long pad life
• Average friction coefficient of 0.48
• Working temperature range: 200°–750°C
Simple explanation
DSUNO is a serious motorsport compound. It delivers strong and stable braking over long stints while being gentle on discs. It’s a favorite in rally and circuit racing where consistency and durability matter more than aggressive initial bite.
Important note
Not suitable for road use.
TL66
Main applications
GT, Rally, Touring Cars, Formula, heavy-duty track use
Main features
• High friction and strong initial bite
• Similar peak grip to DS3.12 but with smoother torque build-up
• ABS compatible
• Very long pad life under heavy track use
• Stable performance up to 800°C
• Proven in endurance races like Nürburgring and Spa 24h
Simple explanation
TL66 is designed for big, fast cars with ABS. It gives you confidence and control, especially during long braking zones. Compared to DS3.12, it’s easier to modulate and less aggressive at the end of the stop.
Important note
Not suitable for road use.
FER4003 (C)
Main applications
Formula cars, rear Touring Cars
Main features
• Light to medium-duty race compound
• Very short bedding-in time
• Excellent bite
• Low drag and excellent release
• Helps prevent wheel lock when downforce drops
• Average friction coefficient of 0.46
• Working temperature range: 100°–550°C
Simple explanation
FER4003 is made for lightweight race cars. It reacts quickly, releases cleanly, and gives precise control, making it ideal for single-seaters and rear axle use where stability is critical.
Important note
Not suitable for road use.
TL180
Main applications
GT, heavy-duty track use
Main features
• Highest friction coefficient in Ferodo’s heavy-duty range
• ABS compatible
• Reduces disc peak temperatures
• Ideal for high-powered GT cars
• Stable performance up to 850°C
Simple explanation
TL180 is Ferodo’s most aggressive heavy-duty compound. It’s built for extreme braking loads, powerful cars, and endurance or sprint racing where maximum stopping power is essential.
Important note
Not suitable for road use.
DS3.12 (G / GB)
Main applications
GT, V8, Stock Car, heavy-duty track use
Main features
• High friction coefficient and strong initial bite
• ABS compatible
• Designed for large vehicles
• Stable and repeatable performance up to 850°C
Simple explanation
DS3.12 is all about bite and consistency. It’s commonly used on GT3 and GT4 cars where strong initial response and predictable braking are key, especially during sprint and medium-length races.
Important note
Not suitable for road use.
DS1.11 (W / WB)
Main applications
Formula, rear Touring Car and GT, track cars with OE brakes
Main features
• Heavy-duty endurance compound
• Long pad life
• Very disc-friendly
• Average friction coefficient of 0.46
• Working temperature range: 200°–750°C
Simple explanation
DS1.11 is built for endurance racing. It doesn’t feel aggressive, but it’s extremely consistent, long-lasting, and easy on brake discs. Perfect for long races and rear axle applications.
Important note
Not suitable for road use.
DS3000 (R)
Main applications
Touring Cars, Rally, Formula, track cars with OE brakes
Main features
• Heavy-duty all-round race compound
• Short bedding time
• Wide motorsport compatibility
• Average friction coefficient of 0.48
• Working temperature range: 200°–650°C
Simple explanation
DS3000 is a legendary Ferodo compound. It works well across many disciplines and delivers strong braking with good durability. A true “do-it-all” race pad.
Important note
Not suitable for road use.
TL163
Main applications
Rear GT and Touring Cars
Main features
• Low friction coefficient
• Very flat torque curve
• ABS compatible
• Designed for rear axle use
• Stable performance up to 750°C
Simple explanation
TL163 is specifically made for rear brakes. Its lower friction helps balance the car, reduce rear lock-up, and improve stability during heavy braking.
Important note
Not suitable for road use.
Understanding the Friction Coefficient (μ)
The friction coefficient, often shown as μ (mu), tells us how much braking force a pad can generate.
• Higher μ = stronger braking force
• Lower μ = smoother, more progressive braking
In racing, it’s not just about having the highest μ, but about how stable it remains as temperature increases. A pad with consistent μ gives the driver confidence and predictable pedal feel.
Friction Coefficient vs Temperature
In the friction coefficient comparison graph, you can clearly see how each Ferodo compound behaves as temperatures rise.
• TL180 and DS3.12 show the highest and most stable μ at high temperatures
• DSUNO and DS3000 provide a balanced curve, ideal for endurance and rally
• DS2500 and DS Performance are smoother and less aggressive
• TL163 has a deliberately low μ for rear axle control
This chart helps explain why pad choice depends on car weight, power, ABS, and race duration.
Optimal Operating Temperature
The operating temperature chart shows where each compound performs best.
• DS2500 works from cold but is limited to lower temperatures
• DSUNO, DS1.11, and DS3000 are ideal for medium-to-high temperature racing
• TL66, TL180, and DS3.12 handle extreme heat up to 800–850°C
Choosing a pad that matches your real brake temperatures is essential for performance and safety.
Suggested Applications
The application table highlights where each compound works best: front or rear axle, GT cars, touring cars, formula cars, or rally.
This confirms that Ferodo designs each pad with a specific role, rather than a one-size-fits-all solution.
Final Thoughts
Ferodo Racing brake pads are engineered with precision, consistency, and real motorsport experience. Whether you’re doing track days, sprint races, endurance events, or rallying, there’s a Ferodo compound designed specifically for your needs.
Understanding friction coefficient, temperature range, and vehicle application is the key to choosing the right brake pad—and unlocking the full potential of your car.