Brake pads are an essential component of your vehicle’s braking system. If you suspect they are about to wear out, we’re here to help. We’re going to tell you everything you need to know about these crucial parts.
You’ll learn how they work and the different materials available. We’ve included a buying guide, so you know what criteria to keep in mind to buy the right ones for your car. And finally, you can pick one of your own from our review of what we consider to be the best brake pads available today.
Quick Links to Our Top Recommendations for Best Car Brake Pads
- Akebono ProACT Ultra-Premium Ceramic Brake Pads
- These high-quality pads offer solid performance in all conditions and are virtually noiseless.
- Wagner ThermoQuiet QC465A Ceramic Disc Pad Set With Installation Hardware, Front
- A cinch to install and as durable as they come.
- Centric Posi-Quiet Ceramic Brake Pad with Shims
- Clean, quiet, and great value for money.
- Wagner ThermoQuiet QC1324 Ceramic Disc Pad Set Installation Hardware Included
- An ideal substitute for over 200 models of Lexus and Toyota built between 2008 and 2018.
- ACDelco Professional Ceramic Front Disc Brake Pad Set
- Impressive stopping power and come with a reassuring 24-month warranty.
- Bosch BC905 QuietCast Premium Ceramic Disc Brake Pads (Rear)
- High-quality brake pads for rear wheels with a very short break-in period.
- ACDelco Professional Ceramic Disc Brake Pad Set (Rear)
- Ideal for buyers looking to increase stopping power and pedal sensitivity.
- Akebono EURO Ultra-Premium Ceramic Brake Pad Set
- Suitable for 11 popular European car brands, including Mercedes-Benz, BMW, and Jaguar.
- Akebono ProACT Ultra-Premium Ceramic Brake Pad Set
- Long-lasting, smooth, and ideal if you’re keen to cut out vibrations when braking.
Note: Clicking the above links will take you to further information, current prices and customer reviews on Amazon.
Contents (Jump to Topic)
- 1 Best Brake Pads — A Detailed Look at Our Top Recommendations
- 1.1 Akebono Act787 Proact Ultra-Premium Ceramic Brake Pads
- 1.2 Wagner Thermoquiet Qc465a Ceramic Disc Pad Set, Front
- 1.3 Centric 105.0436 Posi-Quiet Ceramic Brake Pad With Shims
- 1.4 Wagner Thermoquiet Qc1324 Ceramic Brake Pads (Front)
- 1.5 Acdelco 17D1367CH Professional Ceramic Front Disc Brake Pad Set
- 1.6 Bosch Bc905 Quietcast Premium Ceramic Disc Pad, Rear
- 1.7 Acdelco 17D785CH Professional Ceramic Disc Brake Pad Set
- 1.8 Akebono Eur918 Euro Ultra-Premium Ceramic Brake Pad Set
- 1.9 Akebono Act1089 Proact Ultra-Premium Ceramic Brake Pad Set
- 2 Signs Your Brake Pads Need Replacing
- 3 Materials Used — Comparing Different Types of Brake Pads
- 4 Buying Guide — What You Should Think About When Buying Brake Pads
- 5 Conclusion
Best Brake Pads — A Detailed Look at Our Top Recommendations
Below, we provide you with a list of our top choices of brake pads for all kinds of vehicles.
Akebono Act787 Proact Ultra-Premium Ceramic Brake Pads
This set of four ceramic brake pads from Akebono has a wide compatibility range with popular makes and models of cars. It’s appropriate for Asian or American-manufactured vehicles built after 1990.
These brake pads are ideal for daily drivers who are looking for optimal performance from their brakes. The ceramic material is highly responsive to even subtle stimulation from the pedal. If you find you need to decelerate suddenly, you won’t have to stamp down hard.
You can expect immediate results right after installation. This set won’t require you to set aside a cautious break-in period.
These brake pads are gentle on braking rotors. If your rotor is warped or mildly damaged, the ACT787 set shouldn’t make things worse.
The ceramic is long-lasting for consistent quality. This means you won’t hear noises or suffer from reduced ability as the material ages.
Akebono adheres to copper content restrictions in Washington and California. Their products are considered environmentally friendly.
Features and Specifications
- Ceramic, suitable for disc systems.
- Four pads included for two front wheels.
- Compatible with 25 post-1990 American and Asian vehicles.
What We Like
- Friendly to the environment.
- Breaks in rapidly.
- Clean.
- Less dust than most brake pads.
- Rotor-friendly.
- Silent.
- Firmly responsive.
What We Don’t Like
- Can produce heavy dust initially.
- Doesn’t fit with all makes and models of vehicle specified (e.g. 2011 Ford Explorer).
- No hardware included.
Summary
If you’re looking for a smooth, soundless braking experience you might want to try Akebono ACT787. These brake pads are long-lasting and break in fast.
If you want to learn more about this product, click on this link:
Wagner Thermoquiet Qc465a Ceramic Disc Pad Set, Front
If you’re dreading an effort-intensive replacement, you’ll be interested in the Wagner ThermoQuiet Brake Discs.
All of the hardware necessary to complete your installation is included in the box. Setting everything up is straightforward—you don’t need to be an expert to get it done.
These brake pads are built to last for thousands of miles without wearing down or compromising capability. An added bonus is they won’t wear down your rotors.
This product lives up to its name. Regardless of braking speed, they operate quietly.
Your new kit will break in shortly after you take your first drive. You’ll witness a noticeable improvement in your stopping power. The heat-resistant ceramic responds equally well under routine and stressful braking circumstances.
The dust produced by the brake pads is also minimal. Any residue that may occur is light-colored and can be wiped off without hassle.
Features and Specifications
- Ceramic disc.
- Check vehicle compatibility before purchasing.
- Four pads included for two front wheels.
- Includes installation hardware.
What We Like
- No need to buy additional hardware.
- Long lifespan.
- Gentle on rotors.
- Quiet.
- Strong braking power.
- Simple to install.
- Don’t generate much dust.
What We Don’t Like
- Less effective in cold weather.
Summary
With hardware included, these Wagner brake pads make for quick and easy installation. You’ll also benefit from powerful, superior braking at the touch of your pedal.
If you’re curious to see Wagner ThermoQuiet brake pads for yourself, follow this link:
Centric 105.0436 Posi-Quiet Ceramic Brake Pad With Shims
If you’re looking to rejuvenate your brakes with all-new parts, this is a great product to consider.
You won’t have to buy new clips, springs, or pins. Since the manufacturer supplies all the essentials, there’s no concern about incompatibility. You’ll also get additional hardware as shims come attached to the brake pads. Since they come pre-attached, there’s no need to deal with adhesives.
These brake pads will operate without noise. As for effectiveness, you’ll find your brakes operate smoothly and responsively. The ceramic is treated to sustain friction across a variety of temperatures.
These brake pads are designed to wear down evenly, promoting stable, consistent performance as they age. Dust is also practically nonexistent.
Features and Specifications
- Ceramic, suitable for disc systems.
- Check vehicle compatibility prior to purchase.
- Four pads included for two front wheels.
- Hardware included.
What We Like
- Built for even wear.
- All required hardware included.
- Temperature resistant.
- Superior noise dampening.
- Dust-free.
- Easier to install than other brake pads.
- Shims indicate when it’s time for a replacement.
What We Don’t Like
- Takes time to break in.
- Can be loud until fully broken in.
Summary
The Centric Posi-Quiet kit is excellent value with all the additional hardware included in the purchase. Users who cherish silence when breaking and cleanliness may also want to try these brake pads
If you’re eager to know more, check out this link:
Wagner Thermoquiet Qc1324 Ceramic Brake Pads (Front)
This set should fit over 200 models of Lexus and Toyota built between 2008 and 2018. They’re an ideal substitute for the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts.
You’ll receive all the required equipment in the box. There’s no need to mess with chemicals or adhesives. You won’t have to recycle old pins, clips, etc.
Explicit instructions from the manufacturer outline the steps for installation. As long as you follow directions, you shouldn’t have any trouble.
Many users report that the Wagner brake pads perform just as well as the OEM varieties. As with other products in the ThermoQuiet range, your brakes will work quietly.
You may notice an improvement in your car’s stopping power too. At the very least, you’ll have the same braking experience as with the manufacturer’s original equipment.
These durable brake pads will stay on your wheels for a long time without wearing thin. Dust is minimal, so your wheels, rims, and the car will stay spotless.
Features and Specifications
- Ceramic, suitable for disc systems.
- Four pads included for two front wheels.
- Includes hardware.
What We Like
- Rapid, easy installation.
- Clear guidelines.
- Durable.
- Good stopping power.
- Quiet.
- Clean, don’t produce dust.
What We Don’t Like
- Preferable to replace old rotors beforehand.
- Slightly smaller than OEM parts for some vehicles.
Summary
Toyota and Lexus owners will appreciate this cost-effective alternative to OEM products. Additionally, the installation process is simple, and all hardware is inside the box.
Almost any user can install their own brake pads at home with the included instructions. If you’re considering the Wagner ThermoQuiet ceramic discs, follow this link:
Acdelco 17D1367CH Professional Ceramic Front Disc Brake Pad Set
Those of you who value manufacturer reputation may want this set. ACDelco produces parts for General Motors vehicles, meaning you’ll get OEM quality.
You get a 24-month warranty with these brake pads. This is ideal for drivers who collect miles rapidly. In the event of a problem, you should still be covered, even with extensive travel.
These performance brake pads have intense stopping power. You should notice significant improvement in how quickly your vehicle comes to a stop. This is great for those of you who tow heavy trailers. If you have to come to an abrupt stop, you can count on this set to do the job.
The break-in period is short and they’re also quiet and won’t fade in performance as they age. Although this is a semi-metallic brake pad, the metals are non-ferrous. This lessens the risk of corrosion. You won’t have to deal with dust either.
Features and Specifications
- Ceramic, suitable for disc systems.
- Check vehicle compatibility prior to purchase.
- Four pads included for two front wheels.
- Includes hardware and lubricant.
- 24-month warranty.
What We Like
- Reputable manufacturer of GM parts.
- Synthetic lubricant and hardware in the box.
- Corrosion-resistant.
- Good braking performance, ideal for tow vehicles.
- Won’t damage rotors.
- Generous warranty.
- Less brake dust
What We Don’t Like
- Requires some expertise for installment; otherwise they may squeak.
- Lubricant package is small.
Summary
If you’re looking for OEM-quality without the high cost, consider this set by ACDelco. Tow vehicles of all types can benefit from the strong stopping power these brake pads provide.
Take a look at them for yourself by following the link:
Bosch Bc905 Quietcast Premium Ceramic Disc Pad, Rear
The Bosch QuietCast set is designed for optimal braking performance. This product has abundant features to enhance your braking experience and prevent rotor wear.
These brake pads are made for your rear wheels. You can use them in combination with any of the other models we’ve reviewed here on your front brakes.
Each pad includes a multilayer shim made of several materials. This includes steel, rubber, and a protective coating. All of these work together for noise-free braking. Since each shim has a rubber core, there’s less chance of corrosion.
The surface of the product has been chemically treated to protect from wear. The chemical will also rub off on your rotors, offering the same protection. The friction materials in the pad are a combination of ceramic and alloy. This allows for a steady, controlled deceleration.
If you drive a vehicle that’s back-heavy, these may be great for you. Although they do contain metal, you’ll find that the Bosch QuietCast set won’t get your wheels dusty.
Features and Specifications
- Ceramic and semi-metallic, suitable for disc systems.
- Four pads for two rear wheels.
- Compatible with select models of Nissan, Infiniti and Suzuki from 2002 to 2016.
- Includes installation hardware and lubricant package.
What We Like
- Break in quickly.
- Built of high-quality materials.
- Protects rotors from wear.
- Quiet operation.
- Comes with lubricant and all necessary hardware.
- Reputable manufacturer.
What We Don’t Like
- Installation can be tricky for inexperienced users.
Summary
If innovative design features and a quality manufacturer appeal to you, consider these brake pads from Bosch QuietCast. This kit comes with all the hardware you’ll need to do the job.
If you want to buy these brake pads for your car, click here:
Acdelco 17D785CH Professional Ceramic Disc Brake Pad Set
Another set from ACDelco, this time for your rear wheels. As with the other ACDelco product on this list, you’ll get a 24-month unlimited mile warranty. As we’ve mentioned above, ACDelco has the advantage of brand integrity. The company manufactures OEM parts for General Motors vehicles.
This set combines the best facets of two materials. Each item has ceramic friction material for a strong braking grip. The metallic portion is made of non-ferrous materials, meaning it’s less likely to corrode.
You should feel an almost immediate difference in stopping power after installation. You’ll also receive a lubricant package with the kit and all necessary installation hardware.
You may also benefit from increased pedal sensitivity. You can slow or stop your car without hitting the brakes as hard as usual.
Features and Specifications
- Ceramic and semi-metallic, compatible with disc systems.
- Four pads for two rear wheels.
- 24-month warranty.
- Includes installation hardware and lubricant.
What We Like
- Unlimited mileage warranty.
- Corrosion resistant.
- OEM-quality.
- Enhanced pedal sensitivity.
- Short break-in period.
- Strong stopping power.
What We Don’t Like
- Lubricant package is small.
- May take time to adapt to the stronger braking power.
Summary
These powerful braking components can increase your stopping power and pedal sensitivity. If you have a GM vehicle, you may want to substitute OEM brake pads with these.
Take a look at the ACDelco rear pads for yourself at this link:
Akebono Eur918 Euro Ultra-Premium Ceramic Brake Pad Set
These brake pads will appeal to drivers who take pride in their vehicle’s appearance. These are suitable for 11 popular European car brands. Mercedes-Benz, BMW, Jaguar, and other luxury-brand owners will appreciate the cleanliness of these pads.
There’s very little dust produced during break-in and regular usage. Any dust that is generated is fine and light-colored, and is easy to wipe off.
As for braking power, this set performs well, and you can expect this to continue over time.
Features and Specifications
- Ceramic, suitable for disc systems.
- Compatible with 11 popular makes of European vehicles. Check compatibility.
- Four pads for two front wheels.
- Includes shims.
What We Like
- Little dust residue.
- Long lifespan.
- No vibrations or noise.
- Engineered for European automobiles.
- Perform well for routine driving.
- Don’t fade with time.
What We Don’t Like
- Require more force on the pedal.
- Can take time to break in.
Summary
If you own a European car, this set of brake pads is constructed to meet your vehicle’s needs. Make sure to check your exact model is compatible before ordering, though.
If you want to get these Akebono products, check this link:
Akebono Act1089 Proact Ultra-Premium Ceramic Brake Pad Set
These premium ceramic brake pads work for a range of late-model American and Asian vehicles. If you want pads that will last for a long time between replacements, these will appeal.
This ceramic-built set isn’t prone to fading or decreased performance as they age. Your stopping power and pedal sensitivity should increase. If you were dealing with under-responsive brakes, this set may be a breath of fresh air.
Another advantage is their smooth operating capacity. Your car shouldn’t be slowing down with unnecessary vibration noise. These models do have power but won’t cause your automobile to shudder and shake.
They are built to be gentle on rotors, a plus for any car owner. You’ll receive an anti-seizure lubricant to promote noiseless operation.
Features and Specifications
- Ceramic, suitable for disc systems.
- Four pads for two front wheels.
- Installation hardware included.
What We Like
- Don’t fade as they age.
- Durable.
- Minimal, light-colored dust.
- Strong deceleration with less pedal pressure.
- Gentle on rotors.
- No vibrations.
What We Don’t Like
- Might be noisy when cold.
- Can wear down faster in heavier vehicles (e.g., vans).
Summary
If you hate to wear through your auto parts fast, this long-lasting set of brake pads by Akebono may appeal to you. It’s also ideal if you can’t stand vibration of any sort while braking.
If you want further info on this product, follow the link:
Signs Your Brake Pads Need Replacing
Checking the condition of your brake pads in a disc system is straightforward. The only tools you’ll need for the job are your eyes and ears.
For a visual assessment, you should be able to see the padded material from between the spokes of the wheel. If you see that it’s down to less than a quarter-inch thickness, a replacement is needed.
You shouldn’t hear squealing or shrieking when you hit the brakes. If you hear these noises on a regular basis, the material may be worn away. This applies to disc as well as drum types.
If you want to examine the drum variety, it’s a little more complicated as the shoes are not visible. You’ll have to remove your wheel to access the drum. If you’re uncomfortable with the task, you may have to go to your local mechanic.
Check out our guide to how long brake pads last for more info.
If you feel up to the challenge of doing it yourself, you can watch the following video:
Materials Used — Comparing Different Types of Brake Pads
There are four broad categories of brake pads for cars. They can be separated according to the materials used to build them, which are:
- Organic
- Semi-metallic
- Metallic
- Ceramic
Let’s take a look at the benefits and disadvantages of each.
Organic
Organic brake pads are made with a mix of organic compounds such as rubber, resins, carbon, and glass.
The upside of using an organic brake pad is they’re more environmentally friendly. Disposal is less of a challenge, and these substances don’t pollute when they wear.
In disc systems, they’re more gentle on your brake rotors and quieter in operation.
On the downside, organic brake pads are less resilient to friction wear. They’re more likely to produce more brake dust than other varieties.
Stressful driving conditions or an aggressive driving style will speed up degradation. If your vehicle is heavier (e.g., a truck) or bears heavy loads with some regularity, organic pads aren’t the best choice. The same goes for high-performance automobiles, such as sports cars.
Everyday drivers under normal conditions shouldn’t encounter these issues. The same goes for lightweight cars that aren’t driven aggressively.
Semi-Metallic
Semi-metallic brake pads are among the most popular types due to their beneficial properties. To start with, metal tends to be unyielding. When you decelerate with a semi-metallic pad, you’ll get the sensation of firm responsiveness. You won’t need to press hard on the brake pedal. For this reason, they’re popular on high-performance vehicles.
These are made for diverse driving situations. For instance, you can find brands that are designed specifically for towing or load-bearing vehicles. Semi-metallic is a good option for aggressive, high-performance driving and heavy braking too.
Unfortunately, semi-metallic is noisier than organic and ceramic brakes. The dust produced by wear and tear is black and can stick to your wheels.
As for longevity, semi-metallic falls somewhere in the middle.
The quantity of metal can vary and will have an impact on all of these properties. A product with a lower percentage of metal won’t perform the same way as one that has a heavier metal content.
Metallic
Metallic brake pads are made from graphite, copper, steel, iron, and related alloys. Unlike semi-metallic brake pads, these variations are almost pure metal.
This makes them resistant to extreme heat and friction. As they’re unyielding, their sintered materials work under stressful conditions, e.g. braking at high speeds or towing.
They’re also capable of performing well in challenging environmental conditions. Moisture, mud or outside debris won’t interfere with function. For this reason, they’re often used in high-performance motorcycles or dirt bikes.
At the same time, you can expect a lot of brake noise when the metal heats up. You may also hear unpleasant sounds if you’re driving in wet, muddy environments.
Ceramic
Ceramic brake pads can withstand high heat and are friction-resistant, meaning they’re more durable than other materials. Ceramic also makes for a near-silent braking experience. And since ceramic is harder to wear down, they produce very little brake dust.
All of these qualities mean it’s suitable in versatile driving conditions. Ceramic isn’t as vulnerable to the elements as other materials, so it will hold up well even if you drive your vehicle roughly.
For these reasons, ceramic pads are ideal for most automobile owners.
Ceramic does have some disadvantages, however. Because it dissipates rather than retains heat, it can cause wear on other parts of your braking system over time. Also, ceramic brake pads tend to perform quite poorly in cold temperatures, as they take time to warm up. Another downside is ceramic pads are costlier than other variations.
Buying Guide — What You Should Think About When Buying Brake Pads
From here, we discuss the things you simply must know or consider when looking for the right brake pads for your vehicle.
Type of Vehicle, Make, and Model
Take care to ensure that the product you buy is fitting for your vehicle.
If shopping online, you should find an option to type in the details of your car or truck. Ensure you enter the model, make, and year of your vehicle correctly.
Front or Rear?
Review the description of the model you’re considering—are they front brake pads or rear brake pads? The two are often sold separately, so check before buying.
Pad Material
If you skimmed over it, go back to the section above, comparing different materials. We explain the differences and pros and cons of each type.
Dust and Residue
As we’ve covered, certain materials aren’t as dusty as others. You’ll have a lower risk of dust with compounds that are slower to degrade.
That being said, dust is inevitable, regardless of the material. Note that poor quality manufacturing—and not only the materials used—can lead to more dust.
If you’re concerned about your vehicle’s appearance, keep this in mind.
Installation
What’s your level of expertise when it comes to your vehicle? If you’re a total novice, you should lean towards easy-installation types.
If you enjoy working on your car or bike and have a bit more experience, you won’t be as limited by installation requirements. In fact, you may relish the idea of a hands-on, challenging process.
Performance in Adverse Weather
This advice is for those of you who live in regions prone to adverse weather. Your braking system shouldn’t be compromised when the weather turns nasty.
Expected Lifetime
It’s always handy to know the expected lifespan of any automotive part. This is a great general rule, and definitely applies to brake pads. You can keep track and know when it’s nearing time for a replacement.
Noise Levels
Is noise bothersome to you? If so, prioritize those designed to work in silence, or at least to reduce noise.
What’s Included
Does the product come with installation hardware? If so, this should ease the process. It also might be more economical.
Price
The price of these parts can vary dramatically. Settle on a budget and try to stay within it. At the same time, it isn’t wise to buy cheap. Remember that poor construction usually leads to poor performance.
Conclusion
We hope you’ve found our guide to the best brake pads useful, and have found a set to fit your car and your needs.
Brake pads are such a crucial part of your braking system that a quality pair of new brake pads could save you and others from accident or injury, as well as simply enhance your driving experience in general.
We would welcome your feedback, thoughts, and questions. Please share your opinion with us in the comments below, we’ll get back to each of you!
Product image credits: © Amazon.com
