ORGANIC Brake Pads: Meaning, Benefits, Lifespan & More
What Are Organic Brake Pads?
Organic brake pads refer to brake pads that are made with organic materials such as fibers, rubbers, and resins. They are made from non-metallic and non-ceramic compounds.
Organic brake pads were originally made with asbestos fibers because of their high heat resistance. However, asbestos was banned in brake pads due to health concerns. Modern organic brake pads use a variety of materials instead including Kevlar, glass fibers, rubber, carbon, and resins.
The key difference between organic and non-organic brake pads is the materials used:
- Organic pads use natural fibers, rubbers, and resins.
- Non-organic pads like ceramic and metallic are made from synthetics, metals, ceramics.
Organic pads offer good braking performance for everyday driving but have less heat resistance than ceramic or metallic pads. They produce less brake dust but wear faster than non-organic pads.
Benefits of Organic Brake Pads
Organic brake pads offer several advantages over other brake pad materials like ceramic and metallic pads. Some of the key benefits of organic brake pads include:
Better for the environment – Organic brake pads do not contain copper or other heavy metals like some metallic pads, making them more environmentally friendly (https://www.minit-tune.com/blog/the-pros-and-cons-of-ceramic-organic-and-metallic-brake-pads). The materials are biodegradable and produce less airborne pollution.
Less brake dust – Organic pads produce significantly less brake dust than metallic pads, keeping your wheels cleaner (https://www.bridgestonetire.com/learn/maintenance/ceramic-vs-metallic-brake-pads/). Less brake dust also reduces contamination of the environment.
Lower levels of noise – Organic pads are designed to run quieter than semi-metallic and ceramic pads. The organic compounds absorb vibration and noise (https://www.goodyearbrakes.com/brake-pads/material/organic-vs-ceramic/). This makes for a more comfortable driving experience.
Good braking performance – While not as strong in extreme conditions as ceramic, organic pads offer excellent braking power under normal driving conditions. Organic material can withstand high brake temperatures yet remains stable when cold (https://www.minit-tune.com/blog/the-pros-and-cons-of-ceramic-organic-and-metallic-brake-pads).
Organic Brake Pad Materials
Organic brake pads are typically made from non-metallic, organic materials such as fibers, fillers, resins and bonding agents. Some common materials used in organic brake pads include:
– Rubber – Provides compression strength and integrity to the brake pad material. Rubbers used include styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR) and butadiene rubber (BR).
– Glass fibers – Adds structural reinforcement. Glass has high heat resistance.
– Kevlar – Synthetic fiber that is very heat resistant. Provides strength and durability.
– Carbon fibers – Lightweight and can withstand high temperatures. Improves strength of brake pads.
– Vermiculite – Mineral that increases heat resistance and noise dampening.
– Cashew particles – Natural friction particles with strong braking power. An eco-friendly alternative to metals.
– Binding resins – Holds the brake pad materials together. Phenolic or modified phenolic resins are commonly used.
Organic brake pads do not contain any steel, copper, or other metals. The organic materials provide good braking performance while minimizing brake noise and rotor wear compared to semi-metallic pads. Organic pads are also less expensive to manufacture than ceramic pads.[1]
Organic vs Ceramic Brake Pads
Organic and ceramic brake pads have different properties that provide unique advantages and disadvantages. Organic brake pads use materials like glass, rubber, Kevlar and other natural fibers. They tend to produce more brake dust than ceramics but provide stable braking across a wide temperature range. Organic pads also tend to be less expensive than ceramic alternatives.
Ceramic brake pads utilize ceramic fibers, copper fibers, rubber and other inorganic compounds in their friction material. A key benefit of ceramic pads is they produce much less brake dust compared to organic pads. Ceramics also tend to provide more consistent braking power at higher temperatures. However, ceramic pads wear rotors faster and can be noisy if not bedded in properly. They also cost more than organic pads on average 1.
When choosing between organic and ceramic brake pads, drivers should consider factors like driving conditions, vehicle usage, budget and desired braking characteristics. Organic pads can be a good choice for normal driving and budget-conscious buyers. Ceramic pads excel in high-performance applications but come at a higher upfront cost.
Best Practices for Organic Brake Pads
Following best practices when installing and maintaining organic brake pads can help ensure optimal performance and longevity. Here are some key tips:
Bedding in new organic pads: When installing new organic brake pads, it’s important to properly bed them in by following the manufacturer’s recommendations. This usually involves gentle braking from moderate speeds to slowly transfer material from the pad to the rotor surface for maximum contact. Aggressive braking when the pads are new can glaze and damage them.
Follow instructions: Always follow the organic brake pad manufacturer’s guidelines for installation and maintenance. Using the specified tools, thoroughly cleaning rotor and caliper surfaces, and torquing bolts to the correct specs helps avoid issues.
Know when to replace: Organic pads will wear down over time. Listen for squealing or grinding noises, check pad thickness regularly, and replace them once they reach the minimum thickness as specified by the maker. This avoids rotor damage from worn pads.
While not as long-lasting as other compounds, properly cared for organic pads can provide safe, effective braking performance. Adhering to best practices ensures you get the most out of them.
Lifespan of Organic Brake Pads
On average, organic brake pads tend to last between 30,000-55,000 miles, which is typically between 25,000-55,000 fewer miles than semi-metallic and ceramic brake pads 1. However, there are several factors that can impact the lifespan of organic brake pads:
– Driving style – Aggressive driving that involves heavy braking will wear out organic pads quicker. Defensive drivers can expect pads to last towards the higher end of the average lifespan range.
– Vehicle type – Larger and heavier vehicles like SUVs and trucks will wear out organic pads faster than lighter sedans and hatchbacks.
– Braking conditions – Vehicles consistently driven in stop-and-go traffic and hilly areas will experience faster pad wear compared to highway driving.
– Brake system maintenance – Keeping brake fluid, rotors, calipers and other components in good working order extends pad life. Overheated and contaminated brake fluid accelerates wear.
– Pad compound – Higher quality organic compounds optimized for longevity can last up to 10,000 miles longer than cheaper formulations.
Overall, organic brake pad lifespan can vary significantly based on driving habits and conditions. On average expect 30,000-55,000 miles, with proper maintenance and moderate driving potentially yielding up to 70,000 miles.2
Cost of Organic Brake Pads
Organic brake pads tend to be on the more affordable end of the spectrum compared to other pad types like ceramic or semi-metallic. According to NRS Brakes, organic pads typically range from $20 to $60 per wheel for most vehicles (NRS Brakes, 2023). This puts a full set of organic brake pads in the $80 to $240 range.
By comparison, ceramic pads are usually the most expensive at $50 to $150 per wheel, while semi-metallic tend to be mid-range at around $30 to $100 per wheel (NRS Brakes, 2023). So while organic isn’t always the absolute cheapest option, it is generally more affordable than premium pads like ceramic.
The cost can also vary depending on the make and model of vehicle. More specialized brake pads for high-performance vehicles may be more expensive. But for most standard passenger vehicles, expect organic pads to be an economical choice compared to other types.
Popular Brands of Organic Pads
When it comes to popular and reputable manufacturers of organic brake pads, some top brands stand out. Akebono is one of the most well-known and trusted names in organic brake pads, offering a wide range of options for various vehicle makes and models (https://www.amazon.com/organic-brake-pads-Automotive/s?k=organic+brake+pads&rh=n%3A15684181). Many drivers and mechanics praise Akebono pads for their responsiveness, low dust, and quiet braking.
Other leading organic brake pad brands include Wagner, Bosch, and Raybestos. Wagner ThermoQuiet pads are known for reducing noise and vibration during braking. Bosch QuietCast premium pads offer strong stopping power along with low dust and noise. Raybestos Element3 organic pads feature technologically advanced designs for optimal braking performance (https://www.thomasnet.com/articles/machinery-tools-supplies/best-brake-pads/).
When comparing top brands for organic brake pads, it’s wise to consider pad compounds, driving conditions, vehicle compatibility, and independent reviews. Consulting mechanics and other drivers can also provide insight on reputable organic brake pad manufacturers. Overall, brands like Akebono, Wagner, Bosch, and Raybestos are leaders in the organic brake pad market.
Signs You Need New Organic Pads
There are a few key symptoms that indicate it’s time to replace your organic brake pads. The most common sign is hearing a high-pitched squealing or screeching noise when braking (https://www.bridgestonetire.com/learn/maintenance/when-to-replace-brake-pads/). This noise occurs once the brake pad material has worn down to the point that the metal backing plate starts contacting the brake rotor. Allowing the pads to wear this far can damage the rotors, so it’s best to replace pads once squealing is heard.
You may also feel vibration through the brake pedal, steering wheel, or chassis when braking. This indicates the rotors have become warped due to overheating from worn pads and/or uneven pad material deposits on the rotor surface (https://nubrakes.com/blog/brake-pads/). Warped rotors require replacement or resurfacing along with installation of new pads.
Finally, you may notice a loss of braking power, increased stopping distances, or a “mushy” brake pedal feel. These are signs that the friction material on the pads has worn down to the point it can no longer grip the rotors effectively (https://www.autozone.com/diy/brakes/worn-out-brake-pads-symptoms). Immediate pad replacement is required to restore proper braking performance.
FAQs About Organic Brake Pads
Here are answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about organic brake pads:
How long do organic brake pads last?
Organic pads generally last 20,000-40,000 miles depending on driving conditions and habits. They don’t last as long as some other pad types like ceramic, but are less expensive to replace more often. Proper bedding in can help extend organic pad lifespan.
What are organic brake pads made of?
Organic pads use natural and synthetic friction materials like glass fibers, rubber, fillers, bonding agents and cashew dust bound in a resin base. This makes them quiet and produces less dust than metallic pads.
Are organic brake pads better than ceramic?
Ceramic pads last longer and perform better under high heat braking, but produce more dust. Organic pads offer better cold braking performance and low noise. For normal street driving, organic pads often provide adequate performance at a lower cost.
Do organic brake pads wear rotors faster?
Organic pads tend to be less abrasive on rotors compared to metallic pads. However, all pads produce some wear over time. Proper bedding in helps minimize uneven rotor wear with organic pads.
Why choose organic over ceramic brake pads?
The main reasons to choose organic pads are reduced noise, better cold weather performance, less rotor abrasion and lower cost. For normal driving conditions, organic pads offer adequate braking at an affordable price.