This article contains affiliate links and pricing and availability are subject to change. Brake pads are a crucial component of your vehicle’s braking system, as they create friction against the brake rotors to slow down your car. Over time, brake pads wear out, so it’s important to replace them before they become a safety hazard. While dealerships may charge a premium for brake pad replacement, there are affordable options available online. Here are some of the best brake pads you can purchase online, with prices varying depending on your vehicle’s make, model, and year.
1. Power Stop Front Z26-1405 Z26 Extreme Performance Carbon-Ceramic Brake Pad – $78.49 (32% Off) Tumble Rubber Belt Type Shot Blaster
The Power Stop Front Extreme Performance Carbon-Ceramic Brake Pads are ideal for muscle cars. They feature a thermal scorched pad surface for a fast break-in period and chamfered slots to limit brake noise. The upgraded powder coat backing plate resists corrosion and rust. These brake pads also come with brake grease and a stainless steel hardware kit.
2. Hawk Performance HB549F.702 HPS High Performance Street Brake Pads – $115.89
These Hawk Performance brake pads are made with a ferro-carbon formula and built with a high-performance street brake compound that increases stopping power and has a higher resistance to brake fading. They are virtually noise-free and gentle on the brake rotors. They offer high friction in hot and cold conditions.
3. ACDelco Gold 17D784MH Semi-Metallic Front Disc Brake Pad Set – $45.66
These ACDelco Gold Semi-Metallic brake pads are integrally molded with friction material on the backing plate for extra bond integrity. The stamped backing plate makes it easier to move the pad within the caliber assembly and reduces noise, brake vibrations, and wear. These brake pads are backed by General Motors but suitable for vehicles from other manufacturers as well.
4. Wagner Brake QuickStop ZD1363 Ceramic Disc Brake Pad Set – $31.88
These Wagner Brake pads are formulated to suit the unique requirements of each vehicle application. They feature a zero-copper friction formula that will provide high performance throughout the life of the pad. This product includes OE style lubricant and stainless-steel hardware.
5. BOSCH QuietCast Premium Ceramic Disc Brake Pad – $27.41 (44% Off)
Bosch uses an advanced ceramic friction formula featuring the same aluminum-based alloy used in aerospace engineering. The rubber core shims increase stopping power, decrease noise, and resist corrosion. The protective transfer layer increases durability while prolonging the longevity of the pads and rotors.
Brembo brake pads can be found on many high-performance vehicles, but they can be suitable for regular vehicles as well. Each brake pad is thermally-scorched in order to lessen fading. The Multilayer ESE (Elastomer – Steel – Elastomer) red shim dampens noise and vibrations. The backing plate provides additional brake noise reduction while acting as a heat shield to reduce heat transfer to the calipers.
It’s important to note that brake pads should be replaced before they wear out completely to ensure your safety on the road. According to Bridgestone Tire, brake pads can last 30,000 to 35,000 miles from city driving and up to 80,000 miles or more from mostly highway driving. If you take your car to the track, they may need to be replaced more frequently.
When it comes to choosing brake pads, ceramic brakes last longer than semi-metallic brakes on average and are better at limiting noise while requiring less maintenance. Carbon-ceramic brake pads are the best option for track use, offering the most friction, stopping power, and the shortest braking distance. However, ceramic brakes are best for daily driving, as they can perform well at low temperatures while carbon ceramics may struggle. Ceramic brakes are also relatively quiet, while carbon ceramic brakes tend to squeak often when slowing down.
Brake Shoe Rivet In conclusion, brake pads are a crucial component of your vehicle’s braking system, and it’s important to replace them before they become a safety hazard. While dealerships may charge a premium for brake pad replacement, there are affordable options available online. Consider the options listed above when it’s time to replace your brake pads.