Top Brake Pad Manufactures & Models You Should Know
Brake pads are an essential component of any vehicle’s braking system. Designed to create friction, brake pads press against a vehicle’s brake rotors to slow the wheels and stop the vehicle when the driver hits the brakes. Properly functioning brake pads are crucial to vehicle and passenger safety.
Brake pads are friction materials composed of various ingredients that work together to provide the correct amount of friction for effective braking. Most modern brake pads contain abrasive material such as copper fibers and powdered glass to provide the abrasion necessary for stopping power. Fillers made of graphite or rubber help reduce noise and absorb vibration. Binding resins hold the materials together while modifying the break pad’s friction characteristics. Other ingredients like steel backing plates provide mechanical strength to the pads.
Brake pads work in tandem with the brake caliper and rotor to slow the vehicle. When the driver steps on the brake pedal, hydraulic pressure forces the caliper pistons to clamp down on the pads. This clamps the brake pads against the rotor, creating friction that then slows the spinning rotor and the wheel attached to it.
As brake pads wear down from friction, they will need periodic replacement to maintain proper braking performance. Most experts recommend inspecting brake pads at every oil change and replacing them as necessary. With frequent braking events, brake pads may need replacement as often as every 20,000 to 40,000 miles.
Types of Brake Pads
There are three main types of brake pads used in passenger vehicles today: non-asbestos organic, ceramic, and semi-metallic [1].
Non-asbestos organic brake pads contain natural fibers such as glass, rubber, Kevlar, and sometimes metal fibers. They produce less brake dust compared to other pad types, provide smoother braking, and are quieter. However, they wear faster than other pads [2].
Ceramic brake pads contain ceramic fibers, fillers, bonding agents, and small amounts of copper fibers. They are harder and more durable than organic pads, so they last longer. Ceramic pads provide smooth braking and low levels of noise and dust. However, they can be expensive and do not perform as well in cold weather [3].
Semi-metallic brake pads contain 30-65% metal fibers such as steel, iron, copper, and graphite bonded to fillers and friction modifiers. They are durable, have good heat transfer, and provide great braking power. However, they produce the most brake dust and noise compared to organic and ceramic pads [2].
Top Brake Pad Brands
There are many brake pad manufacturers on the market, but some brands consistently rise to the top as producing the highest quality and most reliable brake pads. According to mechanics surveyed in 2022, Bendix ranked as the #1 preferred brake pad brand for the fourth year in a row (AutoGuru). However, other major manufacturers like Wagner, Bosch, Akebono, and Raybestos also have a strong reputation for manufacturing excellent brake pads.
Wagner brake pads are known for providing responsive braking power and reduced noise and vibration. Many mechanics recommend Wagner’s ThermoQuiet brake pads as some of the best ceramic pads on the market. Wagner also produces OEX brake pads which are specially formulated for European vehicles (AutoGuru).
Bosch is another leader in brake pad manufacturing and produces original equipment brakes for many vehicle makes. Bosch’s patented Multi-Layer Brake Shims help reduce brake noise and vibration. Many drivers also praise the stopping power and longevity of Bosch brake pads.
Akebono brake pads are engineered to OEM specifications and made in North America. The ProACT ceramic brake pads by Akebono offer enhanced braking performance, cleaner wheels, and less brake dust. For European vehicles, Akebono’s EURO brake pads are specifically engineered to match European braking requirements.
Raybestos has over 100 years of experience in brake system manufacturing. They specialize in producing high quality friction formulas for long lasting brake pads. The Element3 brake pads by Raybestos use an advanced friction formula to provide excellent stopping power in wet and dry conditions.
Wagner Brake Pads
Wagner offers a variety of brake pads that are designed for different types of drivers and vehicles, including their ThermoQuiet, OEx, Severe Duty, and QuickStop lines (source). The ThermoQuiet pads use a molded insulator for quiet braking, while the OEx line offers original equipment style pads. The Severe Duty pads are made for heavier braking demands like towing, and the QuickStop pads are designed to reduce braking distances.
Wagner has been manufacturing brake parts for over 80 years and is known for offering affordable, quality brake components. They have a reputation for providing good performance and durability in their brake pads while keeping prices low compared to premium brands (source). Many drivers report good experiences with Wagner pads lasting well and providing smooth, quiet braking.
Bosch Brake Pads
Bosch is a leading global supplier of technology and services with a long history in the automotive industry. Founded in 1886 in Germany, Bosch has grown to operate in over 150 countries worldwide. Bosch first began producing brakes in the 1920s and has since become one of the most trusted brake brands on the market today.
Bosch is known for engineering high-performance and innovative braking products including brake pads, rotors, brake hoses, brake fluids, and more. They focus heavily on research and development to create advanced braking technologies and rock-solid manufacturing processes. As a result, Bosch brake components deliver exceptional stopping power, safety, reduced noise, clean wheels, and long service life.
Popular Bosch brake pad lines include QuietCast, Blue, and EcoDisc. QuietCast brake pads use an innovative multi-layer shim and rubber core multilayer to dampen noise and vibration. The Blue line offers advanced formulas for optimal friction, performance, and low dust. EcoDisc features Bosch’s unique patented TRIvon disc coating for reduced CO2 and particle emissions.
Bosch brake pads receive positive reviews for their smooth, quiet braking and low levels of dust and fade. Many drivers report the pads lasting long distances before needing replacement. While Bosch pads run at a premium price point, drivers find them well worth the investment for their exceptional performance and safety.
Akebono Brake Pads
Akebono is a well-known brake pad manufacturer that has been producing high performance brake components since 1929 (https://www.akebonobrakes.com/about-us). They are a leading OEM brake supplier and pioneer of ceramic brake pad technology. Akebono has built a reputation for manufacturing premium brake pads that offer reduced noise, less dust, increased stopping power, and greater durability compared to stock pads.
Many drivers prefer Akebono for their superior braking abilities over OEM pads. According to one [report](https://www.buybrakes.com/help/akebono-brake-pads-vs-oem-brake-pads/), Akebono pads can provide longer rotor and pad life, more stopping power, and less dust. The advanced formulas used in Akebono pads are designed to withstand high temperatures during braking. This means they are less likely to fade and lose effectiveness in repeated hard braking situations.
In online communities like Reddit, Akebono pads receive positive reviews for their performance and longevity, with some users reporting the pads lasting up to 70,000 miles. Overall, drivers switching to Akebono tend to be impressed with the enhanced braking power and pedal feel compared to stock pads (https://www.reddit.com/r/e46/comments/cg1nll/akebono_brake_pads_any_good/).
Raybestos Brake Pads
Raybestos is one of the top manufacturers of brake pads and other brake components in the automotive industry. Founded in 1902, Raybestos has over 100 years of experience engineering quality brake products for a wide range of vehicle makes and models.
Raybestos is known for producing OE-quality replacement brake pads that meet or exceed the specs of the original pads. They are a trusted supplier of brakes to many major automakers. Raybestos brake pads often outperform OEM pads in terms of performance, longevity, and value (Source: https://www.buybrakes.com/help/raybestos-brake-pads-vs-oem-brake-pads/).
Raybestos offers several lines of brake pads including the R-Line, Element 3, Advanced Technology, and Specialty pads. The wide range caters to different vehicles and driver needs. For example, the R-Line provides maximized stopping power while the Element 3 focuses on clean and quiet operation.
Reviews of Raybestos brake pads are generally positive, with many customers praising their performance, durability, and value over OEM pads (Source: https://bobistheoilguy.com/forums/threads/raybestos-brake-pads-opinions.173882/). Overall, Raybestos is considered one of the top brake pad brands on the market today.
How to Choose the Right Brake Pads
Choosing the right brake pads for your vehicle is crucial for safe and effective braking. There are several key factors to consider when selecting new brake pads:
Vehicle Make and Model: Brake pads are designed for specific vehicles. Be sure to choose pads that are engineered for your exact make and model, as listed in the manufacturer fitment guide. Using improperly fitted pads can reduce braking power. Always check your owner’s manual as well for recommended pads.
Driving Conditions: Think about your most common driving environments. For frequent highway driving, semi-metallic pads work best. For stop-and-go city driving, ceramic pads are preferable. If you live in a rainy climate or need maximum braking force for towing, look for pads with extra grip. A Guide to Choosing the Right Brake Pads for Your Vehicle provides more details on matching pads to driving conditions.
Budget: Ceramic and semi-metallic pads have different price points. Ceramic pads tend to cost more but produce less dust and noise. Compare prices from reputable brands to find an option that fits your budget.
Consulting with a knowledgeable mechanic can further help you select the ideal brake pads for your needs. But by considering these key factors – your vehicle, driving habits, and budget – you can make an informed choice.
Installing New Brake Pads
Replacing your brake pads is a relatively straightforward process that can be done at home with some basic tools and mechanical skills. Here is a step-by-step overview of the brake pad replacement process:
1. Park your vehicle on a flat, level surface and engage the parking brake. Block the rear wheels to prevent rolling.
2. Loosen the lug nuts on the wheel where you’ll be replacing the brake pads. Raise the vehicle using a jack and secure it on jack stands.
3. Remove the wheel to access the brake caliper and brake pads. You may need to remove the caliper bolts to swing the caliper out of the way.
4. Locate the brake pad retaining clips or bolts. Remove them and take out the old brake pads from the caliper bracket.
5. Thoroughly clean the brake caliper bracket to remove any debris. Use a C-clamp to push the caliper piston back into its cylinder to make room for the new thicker brake pads if needed.
6. Insert the new brake pads into the caliper bracket. Secure them with the retaining clips or bolts removed earlier.
7. Swing the caliper back into place over the new pads and reinstall the caliper bolts. Double check that the pads move freely in the bracket.
8. Reinstall the wheel and snug the lug nuts. Lower the vehicle back to the ground.
9. Pump the brake pedal several times to reset the caliper piston before taking the vehicle for a test drive. Check that the brakes are functioning normally before regular use.
Refer to this guide for more details on the brake pad replacement steps, tools, and precautions to take.
Maintaining Your Brake Pads
Proper maintenance is crucial for maximizing the lifespan of your brake pads and ensuring optimal braking performance. Here are some tips for brake pad care:
Inspect brake pads regularly – Visually check for wear indicators every 5,000 miles. Thickness should be above manufacturer specifications before replacement is needed. Listen for squealing or grinding noises which can indicate low pad material.
Avoid hard braking when possible – Aggressive braking results in excess heat buildup which can glaze pads and rotors. Allow time to brake gradually and avoid sudden stops.
Flush brake fluid regularly – Moisture-contaminated brake fluid can damage rubber seals and corrode brake components. Flushing fluid every 2 years helps maintain the system.
Clean calipers and hardware – Dirt, debris and road salt on calipers can cause looseness or binding. Remove buildup with brake cleaner and lubricate caliper pins.
Check pad hardware – Inspect clips, shims and anti-rattle components. Replace if bent, loose or worn. Proper hardware improves pad seating and smooth braking.
Avoid oil contamination – Engine oil or fluids on pads will greatly diminish friction. Have leaks fixed immediately and thoroughly clean affected brake parts.
Use quality replacement parts – Cheap, low-quality pads wear rapidly and reduce braking effectiveness. Stick with pads from reputable brands.
Bed-in new pads properly – Follow manufacturer procedures for bedding when installing new pads. This conditions surfaces for best performance.