The Ultimate Brake Pads Buying Guide
The Ultimate Brake Pads Buying Guide
One of the most crucial components of the braking system is the brake pads. They are your best companions that make a difference between a collision and a close call when such a situation arises. Brake pads are never meant to last forever as they face constant wear when you apply the brakes. Thus, it becomes important to realize when to replace them, what to replace them with, and how to analyze their current condition.
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We will take you through the complete guide for buying new brake pads for your vehicle and help you make the right decision in an effort to keep you and your loved ones always safe on the road.
1. Which Type Of Brake Pads Should I Choose?
2. What Type Of Brake Pads Is Right For My Vehicle?
3. What Factors Should Affect My Brake Pads Purchase?
4. Which Popular Brand Brake Pads Should I Choose?
5. How Long Do Brake Pads Last?
6. What Are The Symptoms Of Worn Out Brake Pads?
7. How Much Does It Cost For New Brake Pads?
8. What Brakes are Better, Ceramic or Metallic?
9. FAQs
1.
Which Type Of Brake Pads Should I Choose?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.
Semi-Metallic Brake Pads
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:
- Perfect for heavy-duty vehicles, pickup trucks, and other workhorses
- Cost-effective replacements
- Long-lasting performance
Ceramic Brake Pads
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:
- Perfect for sports and high-performance vehicles
- Best upgrade brake pads
- Good overall performance
Non-Asbestos Organic Brake Pads
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:
- Ideal for compact vehicles
- The noiseless operation provides a comfortable drive
- Affordable replacements
Top Picks For Brake Pads
High Performance Pads by STOPTECH
Severe Duty Pads by HAWK PERFORMANCE
Premium Ceramic Pads by WAGNER
Premium Organic Pads by EBC BRAKE
2.
What Type Of Brake Pads Is Right For My Vehicle?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.
3.
What Factors Should Affect My Brake Pads Purchase?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.
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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.
5.
How Long Do Brake Pads Last?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.
Shop Brake Pads Now6.
What Are The Symptoms Of Worn Out Brake Pads?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.
7.
How Much Does It Cost For New Brake Pads?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.
- Brake pads under $30 &#; There are many options in this price range and they offer the maximum value for money. Pads in this price range are of good quality, durability, and stopping power as there is a lot of competition in this price range among various brands offering entry-level brake pads.
- Brake pads between $30-$60 &#; Some of the best brake pads are offered in this middle price range that can suit 80% of the vehicles on the road. You can find semi-metallic, metallic, organic, and ceramic brake pads in this range, providing excellent performance, value, and wear resistance.
- Brake pads over $60 &#; These include brake pads made for heavy-duty trucks and aggressive vehicles. Most premium ceramic and advanced material brake pads can be found in this price range. They offer maximum wear resistance, durability, and performance.
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.
Shop Brake Pads Now8.
What Brakes are Better, Ceramic or Metallic?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.
What Brake Pads Last the Longest?
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:
- Brembo Nao Ceramic Brake Pads
- NRS Galvanized Brake Pads
- Bosch QuietCast&#; Premium Disc Brake Pads
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.
How Long Does Ceramic Brake Pads Last?
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.
9.
FAQs&#;Q) How Do Brake Pads Work?
Brake discs contain brake pads, brake caliper, and the brake rotor. When you press the brake pedal, the brake fluid gets passed through the brake caliper, which presses the pads to the rotors, thus resulting in friction and slowing or stopping of the vehicle.
Q) Can I Replace My Brake Pads Myself?
If you are well aware of using the basic automotive tools, changing the brake pads can be an easy job for you. But if you are not confident about the same, better leave it to an expert as these are vital parts for vehicle safety.
Q) How Can I Increase The Lifespan Of My Brake Pads?
- Anticipate the braking distance early to avoid harsh stopping
- Slow down before intersections and remain within speed limits
- Anticipate traffic and slow down early to avoid unnecessary braking
- Remove heavy and unneeded items from the vehicle
- When replacing pads, always check for material and thickness
- Always check for worn-out brake pads when you get the rotors
Q) What Are The Benefits Of Installing New Brake Pads?
- Increase in stopping power
- Consistent braking performance
- The longer life span of other brake components
- Decreased brake dust and brake noise
What Percent of brake life is 3mm? - Maintenance/Repairs
I wouldn&#;t panic at 3mm, but I&#;d start making plans. There are a lot of factors here. How many miles on the current pads, what was the original thickness. That can give you an idea of how many miles are left.
I&#;ll use my car as an example. The dealer told me that my rear pads were at 3mm, he lied but thats not the point. I don&#;t know why the mechanic would pull my rear wheels when the car was in for a takata air bag recall. But anyways, the car had about 100k on it. The OEM thickness is 16mm.
If the pads had really been at 3mm, that would mean I had worn 13mm off in 100k miles. That would be about miles per mm of wear. You can go to 1mm but you risk damaging your rotors. Any way, I figured I needed to replace them sometime in the next 10k miles.
It was spring and the weather was nice so I decided to go ahead and replace them. I ordered new pads from RockAuto and one fine day when it was particularly nice and I had nothing else to do, I replaced them. The most worn down rear pad still had 6mm left.
BTW, he also told me that I needed a new cabin filter. BS, I had just put a new one in. Everyone else in the waiting room was also told their rear brakes were at 3mm and they needed a new cabin filter.
Edit: I was doing an inspection on my daughters car and I noticed one of her rear pads was down to 3mm. For her I ordered pads and did them the next weekend. She is notoriously hard on brakes and I calculated that she had about six more weeks of life in them before they got too close for comfort.
Every case is different but I hope you have enough information to make good decision for yourself.
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