Chinese GP: Daniel Ricciardo says Red Bull's brakes now consistent

While Renault's F1 power unit provided the team's biggest headache in Australia, Daniil Kvyat and Ricciardo could only manage ninth and 10th in Malaysia a fortnight ago as they struggled with overheating front brakes.

Red Bull elected to revert from Hitco to the Brembo brake materials it used in 2014 for this weekend's race, and the Australian said the pedal consistency they sought had returned.

"In feeling and performance, it's pretty similar," he said of the switch.

"Consistency is what we were after. I think we've got that back now.

"We tried a few different materials for the first few races, but there was too much variation as the race went on. Malaysia was pretty extreme, but even in Melbourne [as well].

"On one lap they were feeling pretty good, but they weren't holding up as well, and I think with what we've got now it's at least pretty consistent."

Ricciardo was third on Friday, between the Ferraris and ahead of Nico Rosberg's Mercedes, but could only manage seventh in qualifying.

With Kvyat and both Toro Rossos eliminated in Q2, he was the only Renault-powered driver in the top 10, and suggested rival manufacturers were able to extend their power advantage in qualifying trim.

"Maybe Mercedes and Ferrari are putting in a bit more juice on Saturday," he said.

"I guess they've got a bit more juice available as well.

"We obviously would have hoped for a top five, but Williams always seem to come on strong on a Saturday.

"So there's not too much more we could have done and that's what it is on one-lap pace.

"I think race pace should look better, at least compared to Williams. I think we can challenge them tomorrow."