Depending on the composition and materials used, there are four major types of brake pads available in the market. These differ in performance, price, durability, lifespan, and construction. Each is suited for different driving conditions and has its own perks, so selecting the correct one is crucial. Before checking which one is right for your vehicle, let us first understand each one in detail.
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These are also referred to as Metallic brake pads as they contain a considerable amount of metal – 30 to 70%, along with a variety of different elements like steel wool, copper, graphite, iron, etc. Semi-metallic type of brake pads are most commonly found in commercial vehicles due to their effective braking capabilities. Metallic brake pads are quite wear-resistant and so are able to last a long time. These types of brake pads are ideal for heavy-duty vehicles that carry loads and require long-lasting performance.
While being cheaper than most other alternatives, metallic brake pads also last longer than organic pads and also have good heat dissipation. However, they are harder on the brake rotors, create a lot of dust, lack performance when the temperature drops and are heavier than most counterparts. Therefore they are not ideal for people who face cold temperatures regularly or require extremely high performance.
Pros – Exceptional Stopping Power, Durability, and Heat Dissipation
Cons – Noisy, Can Cause Early Rotor Damage, Less Effective in Cold Weather
Key Attributes:
Ceramic materials are able to dissipate heat very well and are more wear-resistant meaning they last longer and the dust produced is minimal which are all ideal characteristics for a brake pad. They are also lighter than most other types of brake pads of similar size. All these benefits come at a very premium price and are mostly suitable for high-performance and sports vehicles.
Pros – Stopping Power, Quiet Operation, Less Brake Dust, Long Life Span, Low Rotor Wear, Work Well in All Weather Conditions
Cons – Expensive
Key Attributes:
Non-Asbestos Organic or NAO brake pads are made using organic materials and were designed to diminish pollutants generated from the wear-off materials due to friction of the brake pads. Resin-bonded organic brake pads are designed with pollution considerations in mind and deliver on that concern. Modern organic brake pads are made of natural materials like glass and rubber and some are made of Kevlar. These materials do not pollute as they wear and are easy to dispose of. The main drawback is that since they are made of softer organic materials they wear faster and cannot be used in performance and heavy-duty applications. These brake pads are meant for use in smaller sedans and compact vehicles that face mild weather and on-road conditions.
Pros – Minimal Rotor Wear, Quiet Operation, Mild On Brake Discs
Cons – Fast Wearing, More Brake Dust, Shorter Lifespan
Key Attributes:
High Performance Pads by STOPTECH
Severe Duty Pads by HAWK PERFORMANCE
Premium Ceramic Pads by WAGNER
Premium Organic Pads by EBC BRAKE
Now that you know the different types of brake pads available in the market, we are in the right direction. Depending on the vehicle you drive, the right type of brake pads must be installed so as to provide maximum braking and safety to you and your ride.
The very first step to choosing the right set of brake pads is to determine what’s already installed on your ride. If you have OEM brake pads and you are replacing them for the first time, this inspection will save you a lot of time. Also, in case you have some aftermarket brake pads installed on your vehicle that has performed remarkably well for your vehicle, you can simply replace them with a set of new ones.
Depending on the type of vehicle, we recommend the following configuration of brake pads that should best suit your ride. However, there are many other factors to be considered that will be discussed in the next section.
A. Sedans Or Compact Cars
For hatchbacks, small sedans, and other compact cars, organic and semi-metallic brake pads are suitable for the performance they provide. Choosing between the two is more dependent on your requirements. If you want a longer lifespan then semi-metallic is better, whereas organic is more suited for people who want quieter operations and have light usage.
B. Mid-Size Car
The ideal choice for mid-sized vehicles is semi-metallic brake pads. These provide ample performance while being cost-effective. However, if you require more performance or face harsh weather conditions then ceramic brake pads are a better fit.
C. Sports Or Performance Vehicles
Many of the modern sport sedans and coupes vehicles come factory equipped with ceramic brake pads since these provide the best balance of performance and service life. The only drawback to ceramic brake pads is their high price and lackluster winter performance. For high-performance vehicles like track racers, sintered brake pads are a good choice as they work well in most weather conditions, able to withstand high temperatures, and have exceptional wear resistance making them ideal for thrashing around.
D. Heavy-Duty Vehicle, SUV, Or Pickup Truck
More weight and load capacity demand greater stopping power. Heavy-duty metallic pads are the best option as they provide maximum stopping power. These vehicles usually require pads that can easily handle high temperatures and rough use.
From the type of vehicle to the way you drive, there are numerous variables that affect the choice of the right brake pads for your vehicle. Thus, it is advisable to evaluate all the factors and choose the correct product for the car.
Vehicle
Depending on the type of vehicle you drive, the best brake pad for you will vary. Refer to this section for more information.
Climate
Most brake pads bode well in hot and dry conditions but wet and cold performance is not provided by all types. Metallic brake pads perform well in hot, wet, and mildly cold weather but are not suited for freezing temperatures. Ceramic brake pads have a larger operating temperature range but you may have trouble getting them to temp before they are effective.
Traffic
Do you drive mostly in city traffic or travel more on highways? City commute requires quick and frequent stops which can be achieved with low-metallic NAO brake pads. If you drive mostly on highways then stopping from greater speeds will require robust pads and superior brake performance which can be achieved with the likes of semi-metallic or ceramic brake pads.
Towing Or Hauling
Heavy-duty vehicles used for hauling goods or towing require immense stopping power that can be provided with severe duty metallic or sintered brake pads. Such pads are able to withstand the large braking forces while providing long service life.
Noise
If noise is a concern then organic and ceramic brake pads can be used as they create minimal noise. Organic brake pads can be availed at a much lower cost compared to ceramic but you need to consider the performance limitations as well with organic pads.
Brake Dust
Brake dust may be a source of pollution in some types of brake pads. Although, most modern brake pads use environmentally friendly materials that do not have adverse effects. However, brake dust is still produced due to friction and wear which can deposit on the brake discs, wheels, and other suspension components. Ceramic brake pads produce the least brake dust. Organic and metallic brake pads produce a lot more brake dust compared to ceramic types.
Technology
Every manufacturer has different design and manufacturing processes that ultimately determine their performance and reliability. with so many manufacturers around, it can be hard to decide the technology of choice. The trick is sticking to trusted brands and tested products for the best technological prowess.
Price
High-performance brake pads come with a higher price and offer the best of braking, durability, quietness, and longevity. The most expensive brake pads are ceramic pads. Sintered brake pads can also be expensive. Organic pads are the cheapest of the bunch and are affordable replacements for most vehicles. Semi-metallic brake pads lie somewhere between organic and ceramic pads.
Material
As discussed earlier, the composition of the brake pads directly affects its performance. While metallic and semi-metallic pads offer excellent braking, durability, and longevity, they can be noisy and also generate more brake dust. Organic pads are eco-friendly and soft on rotors, but have less braking power and life span. Lastly, ceramic pads are powerful, silent, and a reliable combination but come at a higher price tag.
Raybestos has engineered the best-in-class brake pads for all your needs. Whether you are looking for dependable braking in daily situations or want superior braking power, Raybestos has a product for you.
A. ELEMENT3™ Brake Pads
Part Numbers: PGDM, PGDM, EHT, EHT412H, and more
Features
Material
Brake Hardware
Depending on the application, you may find the following hardware in your EHT box:
Application
Ideal for professional driving and unrivaled stopping power.
B. R-LINE Brake Pads
Part Numbers: MGD603M, MGD255M, and more
Features
Material
Brake Hardware
Depending on the application, you may find the following hardware in your EHT box:
Application
Ideal for everyday usage of various vehicles like cars, vans, SUVs, and light trucks.
C. Specialty Brake Pads
Part Number: SP651TR, SPXPH, SPXPH, SPXP, and more
Features
Material
Brake Hardware
Application
For more information and detailed product lines, visit our Raybestos Brake Pad Section or have a look at the Raybestos Brake Pad Catalog.
Wagner offers top-of-the-line braking solutions covering all the aspects of different types of vehicles, driving habits and physical conditions, and much more.
A. Wagner OEX Brake Pads
PREMIUM PERFORMANCE THAT LASTS UP TO 2X LONGER
Part Number: OEX, OEX, OEX, OEX784, and more
Features
B. Wagner OEX Car Brake Pads
PREMIUM PERFORMANCE THAT LASTS UP TO 2X LONGER
Part Number: OEX, OEX, OEX, and more.
Features
If you are looking for more details, kindly visit Truck Brake Pads manufacturer.
C. Wagner TQ (ThermoQuiet) Brake Pads
THE QUIETER, ONE-PIECE BRAKE PAD FOR ALL VEHICLE TYPES
Part Number: MX8, MX856, QC465A, QC537, PD and more
Features
D. Wagner QS (Quick Stop) Brake Pads
ACHIEVE LIKE-NEW BRAKING PERFORMANCE
Part Number: ZD, ZD, ZXA, and more
Features
E. Wagner SD (SevereDuty) Brake Pads
FORMULATED FOR EXTREME HEAT
Part Number: SX, SX, SX989, and more
Features
For more information and detailed product lines, visit our Wagner Brake Pad Section or have a look at the Wagner Brake Pad Catalog.
Agna brake pads are formulated to provide the best levels of braking performance using their positive mold technology to always meet and exceed the OE industry standards and specifications.
Features
Features
Features
For more information and detailed product lines, visit our Agna Brake Pad Section.
Transit Warehouse is one of the leading auto parts brands in Canada that produces quality vehicle brake parts. The company offers premium brake pads that find their presence in varied sub-brands of the company.
Features
Features
Part Number: PPF-D, PPF-D537, PPF-D and more
Features
Part Number: SIM-537, SIM-905, SIM-, and more
Features
For more information and detailed product lines, visit our Transit Warehouse Brake Pad Section.
Akebono has been in existence for more than 85 years in the automobile industry and has since pioneered in designing and manufacturing advanced braking solutions and noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) solutions. The company has always concentrated on innovation, process advancement, quality control measures, and customer satisfaction as its prime goal and has positioned itself as a key resource for OEM braking solution providers in the aftermarket. The influential OEM customers for Akebono include Audi, Chrysler, Ford, General Motors, Honda, Isuzu, Mitsubishi, Nissan, Toyota, and Volkswagen.
Part Numbers: ACT, ACT, ACT905, ACT, ACT, ACT,
A. Akebono Pro-Act Ultra-Premium Ceramic Brake Pads
These brake pads are designed to help minimize unwanted dust accumulation and provide consistent and smooth stopping capabilities in different driving conditions and even during panic stops.
Pro-Act Ultra-Premium Ceramic brake pads are designed to eliminate unwanted noise, vibrations, and harshness (NVH) and provide the ultimate braking experience. In addition to amazing braking performance, it provides initial effectiveness (no break-in required), high resistance to fade, consistent brake pedal feel, and ultra-low dusting for cleaner wheels and tires. This technology also minimizes the wear on brake rotors.
With the Akebono Pro-ACT Ultra-Premium product line, all customers get OE-quality replacements because Akebono is the Original Equipment Manufacturer for most popular domestic and Japanese vehicles today.
Features
B. Akebono Euro Ultra-Premium Ceramic Brake Pads
Akebono Euro Ultra-premium Ceramic brake pads are designed to give maximum vehicle control and performance which is expected from manufacturers of European makes. These brake pads provide high braking power and extend the brake rotor’s life and also reduce dust and dirt accumulation which can hinder braking performance.
These brake pads also reduce noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH) and are a perfect replacement for semi-metallic and low-metallic brake pads.
By using highly advanced ceramic brake pad technology Akebono’s “EURO” pad line gives excellent stopping power and also extends rotor life and virtually eliminates brake dust.
Akebono is focused on the creation of value in all products. For more than two decades, Akebono Ceramic Technology (ACT) has been the original equipment (OE) standard on many of North America’s passenger cars, light trucks, and SUVs and has set a high benchmark for ceramic pads used in OE vehicle production. Interestingly, European OE manufacturers now request Akebono products for their North American vehicles.
Akebono’s Aftermarket disc pads contain the same materials, engineering, and maintain the same quality standards, and advanced technologies used to create their OE ceramic brake pads. This ensures the highest levels of customer satisfaction and eliminates unnecessary return visits to the shop.
Features
Now that you have understood the various types of brake pads and the factors influencing the type of brake pads for your vehicle, it’s time to start analyzing your vehicle and determine if you really need to replace your car brake pads or not.
We already know that the life of the brake pads can vary depending on the type of vehicle, terrain, traffic, climate and the driving capabilities of an individual. But still a superficial norm suggests that any typical set of brake pads can easily last over 35,000 to 40,000 miles, before needing a replacement. Thus, the first step is to see how many miles your vehicle has already covered and is there any difference in braking capabilities of the car. This way you will be able to determine whether to check your brake pads and related components for further inspection.
The brake pads handle constant force and friction and wear every time we engage our brakes. They are designed to take all the beating and make the vehicle stop by applying the required frictional force on the rotors to stop the rotation of the wheels. Thus, one will start noticing specific symptoms that will indicate the time for the replacement of your vehicle brake pads. Always take these symptoms seriously, as you would not want to be in a vehicle whose braking system may fail anytime soon.
A. Squealing Or Screeching Noises
This is the first indication of worn-out brake pads that emerge each time you apply the brakes. This will sound like two metal bodies rubbing against each other producing that sound. Some brake pads have special metallic shim indicators embedded in them, just for this purpose. This alerts the driver that it’s time to get those old pads replaced immediately.
Note – Sometimes the same sound can get produced due to dirt and debris stuck between the rotor and the pads and should not be mistaken otherwise. Such sounds will usually disappear once cleaned or naturally as the dust wears off.
B. Thickness Of Brake Pads
Since the brake pads wear off physically with time, the thickness gradually keeps reducing and when it becomes about a quarter of an inch (approximately 3mm) thick, it’s probably time to replace them.
C. Deep Metallic Grinding and Growling
If the brake pads have worn off and the disc brakes and brake calipers are making contact with each other, you will hear this deep grind or growl coming from the area. This is important to be addressed immediately as it can cause a complete braking system failure.
D. Brake Pedal Vibration
Sometimes the brake pedal or steering wheel vibrates when you slow down to a certain RPM or speed and these are a clear indication of a worn-out brake pad or brake rotor. Thus, immediate inspection is advised.
E. Indicator Lights
Some vehicles come with a low-pad warning system and have a special indicator light on the dashboard to tell when the time has come to replace the brake pads. This information is vital and helpful and saves a lot of time for the driver.
Once you have done all the inspections and determined that you need to replace your brake pads, it is the time to consider which brake pads to choose and at what price. Prices range variably and also vary from one brand to the other.
Note that if you go for professional help, a typical garage will charge you extra for the services apart from the cost of the brake pads themselves. However, if you are to replace them yourself, you can save on such service costs.
The choice between ceramic and metallic brake pads depends on your driving style and the type of vehicle you own. Ceramic brake pads are quieter, produce less dust, and are more durable than metallic brake pads. However, they are more expensive and may not perform well in extreme temperatures. Metallic brake pads, on the other hand, offer better performance in high-temperature situations and are more affordable than ceramic pads. However, they tend to produce more dust and noise, and may wear out faster than ceramic pads.
It’s important to note that these are just general guidelines, and the best brake pad material for your vehicle may vary depending on your driving style and the type of vehicle you own. It’s always a good idea to consult with a professional mechanic to determine the best brake pads for your specific needs.
The lifespan of brake pads can vary greatly depending on the type of brake pad, the weight of the vehicle, the general driving conditions, and your driving style. According to Durability Matters, some of the longest-lasting brake pads in the market are:
It’s important to note that these are just a few of the many options available in the market. The best brake pads for your vehicle may vary depending on your driving style and the type of vehicle you own. It’s always a good idea to consult with a professional mechanic to determine the best brake pads for your specific needs.
Ceramic brake pads typically last much longer than other types of brake pads, ranging from 30,000 to 70,000 miles of driving. However, certain factors play a part in their durability, and some brake pads can even last up to 100,000 miles. Depending on the composition of the brake pad and the maintenance, the lifespan may vary.
It’s important to note that these are just general guidelines, and the best brake pad material for your vehicle may vary depending on your driving style and the type of vehicle you own. It’s always a good idea to consult with a professional mechanic to determine the best brake pads for your specific needs.
While the federal government sets performance standards for brake systems in new vehicles, there are no government regulations covering replacement brake pads. Given that a large percentage of consumer complaints to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) involves brakes—and the brake system is one of the most critical elements of vehicle safety—it's important to understand the choices consumers face when taking their vehicles to a brake shop. The cheapest brake job may compromise safety, and the most expensive parts may not make your vehicle any safer than the standard part.
Servicing brakes 25 years ago required few decisions other than choosing a mechanic. Disc and drum brakes used only two types of friction materials—semimetallic and asbestos. The mechanic simply replaced the old pad or shoe with the same type. Aftermarket suppliers rarely offered different performance grades or price points for either type of pad.
Today, however, asbestos has been all but eliminated, because it can't meet contemporary cars' higher performance standards as well as concern over health hazards from asbestos dust. Automaker suppliers have developed additional friction compounds, and the aftermarket now offers a dizzying array of replacement brake products under dozens of brand names.
The different friction materials in use today often have design compromises. While one may offer superior heat transfer—and therefore better braking performance—it may also be noisier and more prone to depositing unsightly brake dust on the wheel rims. Another friction compound may have a soft feel, and work quietly, but wear out much more quickly.
There are four general types of brake pads for cars and trucks:
Semimetallic: This formula, containing about 30 to 65 percent metal, typically includes chopped steel wool or wire, iron powder, copper or graphite mixed with inorganic fillers, and friction modifiers that bond all the ingredients together. These pads are more durable and have excellent heat transfer, but also wear down rotors faster, can be noisy, and may not perform optimally at low temperatures.
Nonasbestos organic: Sometimes listed as organic or NAO, this type of pad is made from fibers, such as glass, rubber, carbon, and Kevlar, with filler materials and high-temperature resins. These pads are softer and create less noise, but they wear faster and create more dust.
Low-metallic NAO: These are made from an organic formula mixed with small amounts (10 to 30 percent) of copper or steel to help with heat transfer and provide better braking. With the added metal, there is more brake dust and they may be slightly noisier.
Ceramic: These are composed of ceramic fibers, nonferrous filler materials, bonding agents, and possibly small amounts of metal. Lighter in color and more expensive than other brake pads, ceramic pads are cleaner and quieter, and offer excellent braking characteristics without wearing down the rotors.
While a large selection brings down prices, consumers can be confused by slick packaging, clever brand names, and pushy mechanics. Some consumers are even unaware that asbestos replacement pads are still available. Unlike foods that have ingredient labels, brake pads have no content labeling. In fact, the formulas are highly guarded secrets and can vary even within a manufacturer's own line, depending on what type of vehicle the pads are intended for. Full-size pickups, for instance, may need more metal—for additional stopping power and reduced brake fade—than compact cars, which can use organic materials just as effectively.
Most manufacturers offer a range of pads for each application, but consumers shouldn't be fooled into believing it's always a good-better-best choice. Nor will a family be safer with the most expensive replacement pad. The standard pad, if certified (see below), should meet the demands of normal driving. Upgraded pads for normal driving will likely be noisier, produce more dust, and possibly respond with a harder pedal feel. But if you tow, carry heavy loads or numerous passengers often, live in hilly or mountainous areas, or have a daily commute down a steep grade, you should consider an upgraded or severe-duty pad.
What's the price difference? We looked at the line of pads from one major company for a late-model Chevrolet Tahoe. The standard pad retailed for $68 per set (enough to cover two wheels) followed by an upgraded version at $87 and a severe-duty set at $98. Ceramic pads are more expensive ($120 for the Tahoe), but the advantages may be worth the extra money to many, especially those with custom wheels. Ceramic pads will help solve noise and dust problems as well as offer excellent stopping performance and comfortable pedal feel.
New vehicles must meet federal performance standards—a minimum stopping distance in a variety of situations under a specified pedal effort. Many consumers assume all aftermarket replacement pads will perform just as well or better than factory parts, but that's not necessarily the case.
In an effort to improve the customer's comfort level—and also to avoid future government regulations—brake manufacturers can test and verify their products under two voluntary certification standards. Both are designed to ensure that replacement brakes are as effective as original equipment, and consumers should make sure that any pads being installed on their vehicle are certified.
The first is an independent proprietary program developed by Greening Testing Laboratories in Detroit called D3EA—which stands for Dual Dynamometer Differential Effectiveness Analysis. This procedure tests front and rear friction materials together on dual dynamometers, then simulates vehicle weight and speed through a computer program to measure braking effectiveness and balance for different applications. D3EA was introduced in , and among the first aftermarket companies to achieve D3EA certification were ACDelco, NAPA, Raybestos, and Satisfied.
The Brake Manufacturers Council (BMC) has a second certification standard called BEEP, or Brake Effectiveness Evaluation Procedure. BEEP testing is conducted on a single dynamometer, and the numbers are washed through a computer program to compare brake performance with federal standards for new vehicles. The BEEP approval seals appear on packaging as manufacturers submit products for certification.
The D3EA tests are proprietary and more expensive, but they're also completely independent and tougher to pass. Brake manufacturers have contended that most consumers change only the front or rear brakes at one time, so a concurrent dual test is unnecessary. But, according to officials from Greening, NHTSA tests in the s concluded there was a significant reduction in braking performance when there was a differential between front and rear replacement pads as compared with original factory parts. That report provided some of the motivation for the brake industry to begin seeking a certification standard before the federal government issued regulations for replacement pads. The obvious concern over BEEP testing is that the manufacturers themselves oversaw the development of the certification standards. While the program received input from the Society of Automotive Engineers and actual certification is currently conducted at an independent laboratory, BMC members can conduct similar tests on their own single dynamometers and compute the numbers.
Consumers must remember that not all of an aftermarket manufacturer's lineup gets certified, only pads designed for a specific vehicle that passed the designated test. Also, since the D3EA tests are expensive, manufacturers may test just the standard line for a particular vehicle. One can assume then that any upgraded line from that same manufacturer will meet the test standards. That's why heavy duty or the new ceramic pads may not carry the seal. The best advice is to look for manufacturers that aggressively test their standard line, then move up in grade if you need more performance or seek other advantages such as minimal wheel dust.
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