We all understand that stopping our vehicles is critically important. Fortunately, there are many different brake pad materials out there that do a fine job bringing our vehicles to a halt. Although, with so many options it can be difficult to choose which material is best suited for our specific driving style or type of vehicle. Here we take a look at two of the more common brake pad materials, ceramic brake pads and semi-metallic brake pads, and highlight some considerations you should make when deciding between the two.
Ceramic Brake Pads
Ceramic Brake Pads
Ceramic Brake Pads
Ceramic pads represent the latest in brake pad technology and were originally introduced on production vehicles in the 1980s. Ceramic pads are created from a blend of super-strong ceramic and copper fiber imbedded into the pad compound. Here's a quick breakdown of their pros and cons:
Pros:
They're quieter than semi-metallic pads
They create less dust, keeping your wheels cleaner
They last longer than semi-metallics
Cons:
They're not recommended for racing or heavy-duty towing
They're generally more expensive than comparable metallic pads
They generally cause more wear to brake rotors than metallics
Metallic Brake Pads
Metallic Brake Pads
Semi-Metallic Brake Pads
Semi Metallic brake pads have been around for decades and as their name implies, are made with portions of metal fibers in the brake pad compound. High quality semi metallic pads contain fine metallic fibers, while cheaper pads will have larger, more coarse portions of metal imbedded into the compound. Here are the pros and cons of semi-metallic brake pads:
Pros:
Work great when cold, excellent for short trips and cold climates
They're available in track-ready and heavy-duty towing formulations
They're relatively less expensive than comparable ceramic pads
They're typically easier on rotors than ceramics
Cons:
They're louder than ceramic pads
They generate more black dust that sticks to wheels easier
They don't last as long as ceramics
The Bottom Line
As brake technology continues to evolve, more and more auto manufacturers are outfitting their autos with ceramic pads right from the factory. Ceramics are a great option if you're a regular commuter who doesn't run quarter-mile sprints or weekend warrior track days. Two great options are the Posi-Quiet Ceramic Brake Pads or Hawk Performance Ceramics along with a host of other pads listed below. Ceramics not only last a long time, but produce less brake dust, keeping your wheels looking sharp.
Although ceramics offer the latest technology, this doesn't necessarily mean they are the greatest pad for all conditions. The aftermarket brake world still holds metallic pads near and dear to their hearts with aggressive variations and mixed metallic compounds. Many performance companies like Brembo Brakes and EBC Brakes continue to offer semi-metallic pads because of their performance capabilities. In fact, many track pads are semi metallic, known for their great initial bite and consistent brake pedal feel, providing excellent driver feedback. Mated with deluxe brake calipers and stainless steel brake lines, metallic pads can bring the speediest racers to a commanding halt.
Still unsure and need additional direction on buying the appropriate brakes? Check out our Brakes Buying Guide for more information.
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