One of the inexpensive yet extremely vital accessories for car owners is the brake pads. Stopping your four-wheeler quickly is as crucial as accelerating the car. The premium car brake pads help stop your vehicle at the right time. As the name suggests, the brake pads are designed to support your vehicle’s brake system. This affordable car accessory is a big deal for regular car drivers. High-quality brake pads are a must for those who often drive in heavy traffic.
Buying the best pair of brake pads can turn out to be an overwhelming process. Rest assured that most of the products you find on the market comply with the government’s safety regulations. If you can’t choose the best product for your vehicle, read on this post. We have compiled a list of the top 10 car brake pads for different car models.
What Are Car Brake Pads?
The brake system of a four-wheeler is quite complex. It includes a set of internal and external parts that work together to stop the vehicle effortlessly.
Remember that premium brake pads can mean the difference between a serious accident and a close call. There is no denying that a pair of robust and smooth brake pads can save the life of the driver and passengers. You need to get the brake pads replaced once in a while. Basically, these pads are to be replaced every 50,000 miles. However, how often you need to replace them depends largely on your driving habit and the car model.
Most manufacturers offer two sets of robust brake pads with the car. This means you get one pair of disc pads for both rear and front end. Front brake pads need replacements frequently since they face wear quickly. Let’s see the best pair of brake pads for your car. Here is the list of the best car brake pads.
Best Car Brake Pads
One of the inexpensive yet extremely vital accessories for car owners is the brake pads. Stopping your four-wheeler quickly is as crucial as accelerating the car. The premium car brake pads help stop your vehicle at the right time. As the name suggests, the brake pads are designed to support your vehicle’s brake system. This affordable car accessory is a big deal for regular car drivers. High-quality brake pads are a must for those who often drive in heavy traffic.
Buying the best pair of brake pads can turn out to be an overwhelming process. Rest assured that most of the products you find on the market comply with the government’s safety regulations. If you can’t choose the best product for your vehicle, read on this post. We have compiled a list of the top 10 car brake pads for different car models.
What Are Car Brake Pads?
The brake system of a four-wheeler is quite complex. It includes a set of internal and external parts that work together to stop the vehicle effortlessly.
Remember that premium brake pads can mean the difference between a serious accident and a close call. There is no denying that a pair of robust and smooth brake pads can save the life of the driver and passengers. You need to get the brake pads replaced once in a while. Basically, these pads are to be replaced every 50,000 miles. However, how often you need to replace them depends largely on your driving habit and the car model.
Most manufacturers offer two sets of robust brake pads with the car. This means you get one pair of disc pads for both rear and front end. Front brake pads need replacements frequently since they face wear quickly. Let’s see the best pair of brake pads for your car. Here is the list of the best car brake pads.
1. Power Stop Z23 Evolution Sport Ceramic Brake Pads
There is no denying that Power Stop is the US’ most popular brake manufacturing company. It has gained immense popularity after launching a new category in the brake system. The company mainly focuses on launching innovative brake components and safety gear. Power Stop is known for offering a broad range of car brake pads. These brake pads are designed for performance-oriented vehicles.
The company has launched some exciting and sturdy brake pads for passenger vehicles. The USP of the brand is its material. The product is used for improving the braking system and preventing the dust accumulation on the brake pads. Power Stop has used the low dust ceramic to manufacture a strong pair of brake pads. Expect this product to last for thousands of miles. Unlike the metal brake pads, Power Stop Z23 Evolution Sport ceramic brake pads can resist heat and rust effortlessly. The price is slightly higher than other premium metal brake pads, but it isn’t expensive at all. The brake pads are compatible with most of the modern vehicles, especially the Nissan cars.
Despite giving a fantastic performance, Power Stop Z23 Evolution Sport ceramic car brake pads do not offer the best durability. The carbon fiber and ceramic are quite good at stopping the vehicle immediately, but the compound wears sooner that you might expect. Its chamfered slot enables drivers to experience quiet and stable braking.
Features
- Made of Power Stop’s signature product
- Fade-free performance
- Quiet braking
- Thermal scorched surface
- Chamfered slot
The Pros
- It keeps the brake system clean and dust-free
- Robust material
- Performance-oriented brake pad
- Fast and stable braking
- Resist temperature and corrosion
The Cons
- The material isn’t durable
- A bit expensive
2. Wagner QuickStop Ceramic Disc Pad Set
Wagner QuickStop Ceramic Disc Pad Set is another rear set of comfortable and smooth brake pads. This product is relatively cheaper than Wagner’s high-power brake accessories. If durability is not your concern, then Wagner QuickStop Ceramic brake pads will make a perfect fit for your vehicle.
Material And Installation
Made of ceramic, this set of brake pads offer quick and sharp braking. The car gets stable when the driver applies the brake. However, you may experience noisy performance since the material used for the construction of this pair of disc brake pads produce a squealing sound.
The sound isn’t going to be a problem as long as you pay attention to the installation. The installation process is super simple. All you need to do is read the manual and follow the instructions carefully. The company ships this product with lubricant and stainless steel.
Compatibility
One of the main drawbacks of this product is its construction. There is no denying that Wagner QuickStop Ceramic brake pads offer amazing performance when it comes to stopping the vehicle. However, the brake pads might not fit all types of vehicles considering its unique design and specifications.
That being said, you need to check the compatibility of the pads with your vehicle before making a purchase. Wagner has designed these pads for mid-range cars, such as Toyota Avalon, Lexus Es, and more. The pads might not fit a modern vehicle (2019-2020 variants). The product is available at a reasonable price.
Features
- Comes packed with stainless steel and lubricant
- Delivers consistent braking
- Manual for smooth installation
- Made of ceramic
- Rear position brake pads
The Pros
- Easy to install
- Offers quick and sharp braking
- Budget-friendly pads
- Delivers high-power braking performance
- No vibration
The Cons
- Average durability
- Not compatible with the latest cars
- Brakes can be a little noisy
3. ACDelco 14D882CH Advantage Ceramic Set Of Brake Pads
Initially, ceramic brake pads were available at quite a high price, making it nearly impossible for budget-conscious buyers to replace their car brake pads with ceramic pads. However, the same ceramic pads are now available under $30. The ACDelco Advantage Ceramic Set of Brake Pads is a cost-effective and high-performance solution to your ineffective braking system.
These pads offer brilliant braking performance under all driving conditions. Just like other ceramic pads, this product offers noise-free and smooth operation. The manufacturer ships this product with the installation hardware that makes it easier for the drivers to mount the pads on the brake caliper smoothly. The only part we did not like is the weird shape of these brake pads. It might take some time for the driver to align the product with the rotors appropriately.
Compatibility
Now that the pads are manufactured by ACDelco, the durability and performance will not be a problem. However, these pads are compatible with only the GM vehicles, such as Chevrolet, GMC, and Saturn. The pads might not resemble the original brake pads you received with your car; however, the manufacturer has used the same specifications.
Usually, ceramic brake pads do not offer the best durability. However, the ACDelco Advantage Ceramic Set of Brake Pads is an exception. This product can last for thousands of miles. The company provides this pair of brake pads with a one-year warranty.
Features
- Made of ceramic
- Compatible with GM vehicles
- One-year warranty
- No machine or tool required for installation
The Pros
- Smooth braking system
- Noise-free operations
- Affordable
- High durability
- Lightweight and compact design
The Cons
- Limited compatibility
- Installation can be a little difficult
4. ACDelco 14D1169ACH Advantage Car Brake Pads
This is another effective pair of brake shoes from ACDelco on this list. Like its variants, ACDelco 14D1169ACH Advantage Car Brake Pads are known for its quiet and smooth operations. It keeps your car brake system dust-free. The best quality of this product is its universal compatibility. It can be installed on almost all kinds of cars – regardless of their make and model.
It is a combination of semi-metallic and ceramic material. That being said, you can use ACDelco 14D1169ACH Advantage Car Brake Pads for sports cars, heavy trucks, and standard vehicles that are used for regular driving.
Features
- Advanced shims and chamfers
- Made of ceramic and semi-metallic material
- Doesn’t need machining and heavy-duty tools for installation
- Shipped with the installation clips
The Pros
- Universal compatibility
- Powerful materials
- Quiet operations
- Dust-free operations
- Affordable
The Cons
- Installation can get a little tricky
5. Power Stop Z36-1363 Front Z36 Carbon-Fiber Car Brake Pads
Another pair of brake pads from Power Stop is the Z36-1363 Front Z36 Carbon-fiber Car Brake Pads. Designed specifically for heavy-duty driving, these brake pads are recommended for SUVs, sedans, and trucks. The brake pads deliver a sharp braking performance, which makes it easier for truck drivers and cargo carriers to stop the vehicle at the right time.
Price And Applications
Since cargo is quite heavy, you need an effective pair of brake pads to control the brake system efficiently. That’s exactly what the Power Stop Z36-1363 Front Z36 Carbon-fiber Car Brake Pads helps you with. Now, this isn’t the cheapest product. Usually, brake pads for SUV and truck tend to be a little more expensive than a typical pair of brake pads.
Of course, many cheaper alternatives to Power Stop Z36-1363 Front Z36 brake pads are available on the market. However, only a few brake pads support towing, hauling, and excess tension. If you want to replace those factory pads with a modern and effective product, then we highly recommend this advanced pair of brake pads.
Compatibility And Durability
Now, this product is compatible with GM vehicles, including Cadillac, Chevrolet Silverado, Chevrolet Tahoe, and more. These pads are quite robust, which makes sense considering the fact that they are supposed to stop an extremely heavy vehicle. Like its variants, the Power Stop Z36-1363 Front Z36 Carbon-fiber Car Brake Pads are made of the company’s signature material i.e. carbon fiber and ceramic. It offers high durability and a decent performance.
Features
- Made of carbon fiber and ceramic material
- Compatible with most of the GM vehicles
- Designed for SUV and trucks
- High-power braking
- Stainless Steel Shims
- Support towing and hauling vehicles
The Pros
- Offer dust-free braking system
- It can be used for uneven and bumpy roads
- Smooth and robust braking power
- Used for large and heavy vehicles
- Durable
The Cons
- Expensive
6. Wagner ThermoQuiet QC465A Brake Pads
Wagner ThermoQuiet QC465A Brake Pads make a wonderful combination of the friction material, insulator, and the powerful backing plate. These brake shoes produce little to no noise. In fact, this pair of car brake pads is mainly known for its quieter and smoother operation. This brake pad resembles the characteristics of copper but gives better performance.
According to the manufacturer and the company’s claims, Wagner ThermoQuiet QC465A Brake Pads produces 35% quieter operations and 15% better performance as compared to the other models mentioned on this list. Thanks to the built-in insulator that endures heat and controls vibration and squealing noise when the brake is applied. The product is compatible with most of the modern vehicles, but make sure you check its compatibility with your model before purchasing it.
The installation process is quite simple and smooth. The manufacturer sells the products with clips and other installation accessories. You only need to give the installation manual a read for a smoother installation.
Features
- Built-in insulator
- Quieter than other models
- Patented design
- Available with the installation clips
- Strong backing plate
The Pros
- No brake fade
- Superior performance
- High-power braking
- Compatible with most of the latest models
- Durable
The Cons
- No cons that we know of
7. Bosch BC905 QuietCast Car Brake Pads
The Bosch BC905 QuietCast Car Brake Pads feature a strong chemical compound that develops a protective layer on the surface of the brake pad as well as a rotor. The company has added the rubber core shim that offers noise-free braking. The product can resist corrosion and wear. The company sells this premium pair of brake pads with the required hardware and lubricant.
Compatibility And Construction
The best part about this product is its universal compatibility. Among all the products mentioned on this list, Bosch BC905 QuietCast Car Brake Pads happens to be the best one in terms of compatibility. You can use it for SUVs, sedans, and light trucks. It is compatible with an extensive range of Asian, European, and Domestic vehicles.
Another interesting feature that makes Bosch BC905 QuietCast Car Brake Pads better than other products is its copper-free semi-metallic and ceramic material. It is a durable material.
Installation
The innovative materials and copper-free solution make it one of the premium and robust car brake pads on this list. The installation process is quite simple since the company supplies the full hardware kit for a smooth setup. The product is manufactured in North America. Bosch BC905 QuietCast Car Brake Pads is a tested product. Quality is never going to be your concern with this premium pair of brake pads.
Features
- Rubber core shim
- Made of copper-free semi-metallic and ceramic material
- Comply with 2025 copper-free law
- Forms a protective layer on the rotor
- Available with a hardware kit
The Pros
- Keeps dust and corrosion at bay
- Rubber core shim extends the life of the brake pads
- Durable
- High-power performance
- Quiet operations
- Universal compatibility
- Easy to setup
The Cons
- The pads are only for the rear brakes
8. EBC Brakes FA409HH Car Brake Pads
EBC Brakes started to produce brake pads in 1984. Today, it has become one of the renowned brands for superior brake pads for all types of vehicles. The company manufactures brake pads using aluminum or steel. EBC Brakes FA409HH Car Brake Pads is one of the reliable, stable, and effective car brake accessories out there. The product offers a great stopping power.
One interesting quality of this premium pair of brake pads is the durability and perfect friction rating. The manufacturer has created a unique design that not only lasts for thousands of miles but offers excellent braking. The product is shipped with brake shoe springs and the hardware components you will need for installation.
You are definitely going to like the unique and attractive design of EBC Brakes FA409HH Car Brake Pads. In addition to regular driving, you can use this set of brake pads for off-road driving. It delivers stable and smooth braking, allowing you to stop the vehicle in one attempt. Besides that, EBC Brakes FA409HH Car Brake Pads make a perfect fit for uneven terrains. The product is strong enough to resist moisture, debris, and dust.
Features
- Made of aluminum
- Brake shoe springs included
- An ideal option for motorbikes
- Non-asbestos lining
- Supports off-road driving
- Edge trimmed shoes
The Pros
- Deliver high-power braking performance
- Eco-friendly product
- Easy to install
- Premium material
- Reasonable price
The Cons
- Some users complained about the durability of these brake pads
9. Akebono ACT787 ProACT Car Brake Pads
Akebono ACT787 ProACT Car Brake Pads is designed according to the OE standards. Besides that, the safety and reliability are never going to be your concern with this DOT-certified premium pair of brake pads. The product can last for years without showing the sign of wear. It offers premium braking, without generating noise.
Whether you are driving in heavy traffic or an uneven road, rest assured that Akebono ACT787 ProACT Car Brake Pads will deliver the effective braking performance. The company has selected sturdy and premium materials that eliminate dust. Besides that, it offers ultra-quiet braking.
The high-quality material prevents corrosion and dust on the surface of the pads and rotors. It also avoids unnecessary squealing and vibration. The brakes offer a brilliant stopping power. Despite being sturdy, these brake pads are quite smooth. This makes it easier for even the beginners to push the pedal smoothly. The best quality of these brake pads is that they don’t need a break-in period. Overall, it offers a smooth and stable braking performance under different driving conditions.
Features
- Made of ceramic
- Reduce dust on the wheel
- Compatible with different vehicles
- A perfect option for beginners
- Match the OE standards
The Pros
- Eliminate dusting
- Durable performance
- Quiet operations
- Smooth and high-power braking
- Easy installation
The Cons
- It is a bit expensive
10. Centric 105.04360 PosiQuiet Brake Pads
This is the ultimate brake accessory for car owners. Centric 105.04360 PosiQuiet Brake Pads allows car drivers to ensure smooth and high-power braking at an affordable cost. Made of thick and dense ceramic, this product has gone through rigorous testing. It offers consistent braking.
As we expect from the standard ceramic brake pads, Centric 105.04360 PosiQuiet is used for regular driving. The main benefit of this product is its high durability. You can rest assured that the Centric 105.04360 PosiQuiet Brake Pads will help you cover thousands of miles seamlessly.
Durability And Installation
The company has added a strong and premium plate that extends the life of the disc brakes and improves its performance. The plate also helps prevent vibration and corrosion. It offers noise-free operations.
The modern shims increase the durability of the product. You will get the product with all the necessary hardware tools and lubricants that are needed for quick and smooth installation. Make sure you read the manufacturer’s manual. The simple design makes it easier for drivers to install these pads. All in all, Centric 105.04360 PosiQuiet Brake Pads offer reliable and stable braking. The model stops immediately and makes your car stable.
Features
- Made of ceramic
- A strong and modern shim
- Stable and smooth braking
- Positive molding
- USA made car brake pads
The Pros
- Easy setup process
- High-power braking
- Noise-free operations
- Durable
- Cost-effective
The Cons
- No cons that we know of
Tips For Selecting The Best Brake Pads For Your Car
Durability
The life of the brake pads depends on a number of factors. If you are looking for a durable product, check its material. The stronger the material, the higher the durability it offers. Surprisingly, the performance-oriented brake pads do not last long. Mostly, this product can last up to 65,000 miles. However, you may need to replace the front brake pads every 25,000 miles. It all comes down to the material the pads are made of and their performance.
Budget
The expensive brake pads are not necessarily the ones that last longer than the cheaper pads. The good news is that this car accessory, despite being a vital component, is available at an affordable price. The car brake pads can cost anywhere from $20 to 150. For SUVs and sedans, many low-price car brake pads are available. Usually, the unavailability of the product is the main factor that drives the price up.
Other factors that make some brake pads more expensive than others are material, product guarantee, and its versatility. Budget isn’t going to be a big issue when you are shopping for car brake pads. Remember that this brake component can save lives. So, never settle for an ordinary and ineffective product.
Material
The most common materials used to manufacture car brake pads are semi-metallic, organic, and ceramic. The best material for your car depends on how often you need to use the brake system and where you drive your vehicle. For instance, if you take your car to work every day, then a pair of ceramic brake pads will be the perfect option (considering that you will be driving in the city).
Semi-metallic brake pads make the best option for drivers who drive on rough terrains. It is a versatile material that supports smooth and easy braking even under unfavorable driving conditions.
Installation
You don’t need to take your vehicle to an automobile store to get the brake pads installed. It is rather a simple process. Brake pads come packed with some installation tools such as synthetic lubricants as well as shims.
The manufacturer also includes the installation manual that explains the instructions for the brake pad installation. Make sure that the product you purchase includes the necessary equipment you need for smooth installation. You will not want to spend extra bucks on buying the installation tools separately.
Signs You Need To Replace The Brake Pads
As mentioned before, brake pads need to be replaced periodically. You don’t have to wait for the signs, especially after knowing the importance of this product. Regular inspection is important. Get your car brakes checked by a mechanic or an automobile expert. Here are some signs you need to replace the car brake pads.
Scraping Sound: Due to the excess moisture and damp condition, dust can accumulate on the surface of the brake pads, resulting in the scraping sound. If this squealing sound is produced because of the moisture and dust, then it will disappear soon. If the problem persists, then it is probably a sign you need to get the brake pads inspected and replaced soon.
Thinning: It might sound weird, but brake pads tend to get thinner over time. You will not notice this issue until you get your vehicle inspected by a professional. If the brake pads are not as thick as they were when you purchased them, then it is time to get a replacement.
Jittery Brake: You must be able to push the brake effortlessly. Usually, the braking is easy and smooth. One of the most common signs you need to replace the brake pedal is difficulty in hitting the pedal. If you are unable to push the pedal easily or the braking gets a little jittery, then consider buying a new set of brake pedals as soon as possible.
Some modern vehicles come equipped with the indicator lights that are used to notify the driver when something is wrong with the external or internal components. These lights will glow if the brake pads are not working properly.
Semi-Metallic Or Ceramic Car Brake Pads: Which Is The Best Option?
During the 50s, manufacturers used asbestos for the construction of brake pads. Basically, asbestos is a mineral that is especially famous for its robust nature and durability. It can also endure high temperatures quite well. But, owing to the health risks associated with this mineral, developers had to come up with a better and safer option for car brake pads. That’s when they tried semi-metallic and ceramic front brake pads.
Even today, the ceramic and semi-metallic brake pads are considered as the mechanic’s and drivers’ first choice. Both brake materials are known for their durability, resilience, and reliability. Most importantly, ceramic and semi-metallic brakes tend to be safer than other materials. Let’s see which can make the perfect fit for car owners.
Semi-Metallic Brake Pads
As the name suggests, this material is a combination of metallic and non-metallic products. Approx 30% of these brake pads contain metal. The common metals found in this material are copper, steel, and iron. They also feature organic minerals. These metal and non-metal products work together to form a robust, durable, and versatile pair of brake pads for cars.
Semi-metallic brake pads are highly recommended for sports cars. If you are using your vehicle for racing on tough and uneven terrains, then you will need a powerful brake pad for smooth braking. Semi-metallic brake pads are used for heavy braking purposes mainly.
Not only do they work well on bumpy terrains, but semi-metallic car brake pads can endure different weather conditions seamlessly. Noise is its only drawback. Overall, semi-metallic brake pads make a perfect option for trucks, sports cars, and other vehicles that are driven in poor weather conditions and rough terrain.
Ceramic
A pair of ceramic brake pads is another common option for regular drivers. If you don’t use your car on bumpy and uneven terrains and you drive under a normal condition, then ceramic brake pads will be your best option. Mostly, these brake pads are made of thick ceramic. However, some manufacturers use copper fibers for the best results.
Ceramic brake pads are recommended for those who drive in the city under normal weather. Despite being a popular option, ceramic is not as strong as semi-metallic brake pads. They can’t be used for racing, trucks, and heavy-duty driving. Besides that, ceramic brakes cannot endure cold weather. One interesting quality that makes ceramic car brake pads better than semi-metallic is its quiet operations. The brake produces noise.
Bottom Line
The brake pads you install on your vehicle are the most important component of the brake system. It is, therefore, important for the car owner to install a pair of high-quality and smooth brake pads. The 10 pairs of brake pads mentioned on this list feature either ceramic or semi-metallic material. Compare their qualities and price and choose the best option.
FAQs
- How Much Does it Cost to Replace the Brake Pads?
Brake pads do not need professional installment. You can read the manufacturer manual to replace the older brake pads. However, if you want to get the brake pads replaced by a professional, then expect the cost to be around $100-$300. Basically, the price varies depending on the mechanic and type of brake pad you would like to install. If you want to get both the front and rear sets of brake pads replaced, then the replacement can be expensive.
If you choose DIY, on the other hand, then you can save quite a good amount on installation. The installation doesn’t need heavy-duty tools and mechanical knowledge. You only need to follow the manufacturers’ instructions to get the work done. If you DIY the brake pads replacement, you will pay $20-$100. - How Long will the New Set of Brake Pads Last?
It depends on how frequently you drive and the driving condition. Most brake pads need replacement every 25,000 miles and above. The maximum you can drive without replacing the older brake pads is 70,000 miles. Even if you notice no signs of wear, consider getting the brake system inspected by a mechanic.
Usually, the driver will notice the unusual signs indicating the need for brake pad replacement. If you observe the vibration and squealing sound on pushing the pedal, then that’s a sign you need to replace the brake pad. The durability of a new set of brake pads depends on the material and your driving habits. For instance, if you use the car for sports and heavy-duty driving, then you will need to replace the brake pads soon. - Should You Change Both Brakes at Once?
Yes, both brake pads of your vehicle must be replaced at the same time. For your brake system to work properly, you need to change both brakes at once. The reason is simple – both brakes work together to stop the car. Now, your brake system won’t be smooth and easy if one of the brake pads is old, while the other one has been replaced recently. This can cause uneven braking, which increases the risk of collisions.
Another important reason why you must replace both brakes at once is that your vehicle must stop and get stable once you have pushed the brake pedal. With the old and a new brake, your car might stop instantly, but it is highly likely to swerve. - Should you choose a Pair of Premium Brake Pads?
Price has nothing to do with the performance of the brake pads. However, in some cases, the manufacturers raise the price of this product because of the heavy-duty material and durability. For example, ceramic brake pads can endure heat, produce no vibrations and noise, offer good performance, and last long.
Besides that, ceramic and semi-metallic brakes are faster. They allow the driver to stop the vehicle almost instantly after pushing the brake pedal. This reduces the risk of accidents. It also increases the price of the brake pads. - Are all Car Brake Pads Safe?
The brake pads go through testing before they are available for sale. That being said, safety isn’t an issue. However, some brakes are quieter and faster than others. So, there is nothing wrong with spending a few extra bucks on a premium pair of car brake pads.
