Abstract: A vehicle brake assembly is provided with a brake friction pad coated to produce a protective layer upon an associated rotor or like element (e.g., brake shoe). The inventive coating is applied as a surface treatment to the friction material of the brake pad, application of the coating in accordance with the inventive method may be performed immediately after manufacture of the brake pad or as an aftermarket performance enhancement for the brake assembly. Copper powder suspended in a resinous material such as a phenolic resin is the preferred material for the coating. The process for coating the brake pad is adaptable for use at a repair facility or auto parts supply store. The protective layer is formed upon the rotor transferring the coating by heat generated during application of the brake pad to the rotor to retard or arrest rotation thereof.