As a professional manufacturer of automotive brake pads with 23 years in the industry, we understand the importance of choosing brake pads for every car owner. Brake pads not only directly affect the vehicle’s braking performance but also relate to driving safety and passenger comfort. Therefore, understanding and selecting high-quality brake pads is a subject that every car owner must take seriously. After encountering countless brands and models of brake pads on the market, we have summarized some experiences, hoping this article can help everyone avoid some pitfalls in the purchasing process.
What is the standards for Choosing Brake Pads?
First, we need to clarify the important standards for selecting brake pads. As experienced drivers, we can tell you that the material, wear resistance, high-temperature resistance, and braking performance of brake pads are all factors that need to be considered. There are many brands and models of brake pads on the market that seem to have similar functions, but there are significant performance differences in actual use. Low-quality brake pads may result in unresponsive braking, abnormal noises, and even affect driving safety.
What is the Structure and Material of Brake Pads?
Let’s first understand the basic structure and materials of brake pads. Brake pads generally consist of a steel plate that bears pressure, an insulating layer (to prevent heat from transferring to the piston), and a friction block. The friction block consists of friction materials and adhesives, which are pressed against the brake disc during braking to create friction, thereby achieving the purpose of decelerating the vehicle. The friction materials can be divided into four types based on their basic materials: asbestos, NAO type (non-asbestos organic), semi-metallic, and special fibers.
What is Differences and Pros and Cons of Brake Pad Materials?
- Asbestos brake pads: This is the earliest type of brake pad material used. It has high strength and high-temperature resistance but poses health hazards and has poor heat conductivity, leading to potential brake failure.
- NAO type brake pads: Currently the most common type, composed of inorganic materials, glass fibers, carbon fibers, etc. They have advantages such as high-temperature resistance, low noise, and low dust, but also drawbacks like unstable friction coefficients and poorer wear resistance.
- Semi-metallic brake pad/metallic brake pad: These add metal powder to the NAO type. They have higher friction coefficients and wear resistance but produce more noise and dust, and cause greater wear on brake discs.
- Fiber brake pads(ceramic brake pad): These use special fibers like carbon or ceramic fibers. They perform better than semi-metallic types, with advantages in high-temperature resistance, low noise, low dust, and low wear, but are more expensive and have complex manufacturing processes.
What suggestions for choosing the right brake pads?
Based on the above description, we can conclude that better brake pad materials offer better performance but at a higher price. Here are some suggestions for choosing the right brake pads:
- For low-end or mid-range vehicles that usually drive slowly and don’t frequently run on highways or mountain roads, NAO type or semi-metallic brake pads are suitable. These are relatively inexpensive and can meet daily needs.
- For mid-high or high-end vehicles that often drive fast or on highways and mountain roads, special fiber brake pads are recommended. Although more expensive, they provide better braking performance and safety.
- If you’re unsure about what your car needs or want to save effort and worry, choose factory-matched brake pads. These are designed and manufactured according to your car model and braking system, ensuring the best fit and performance.
How to understanding Friction Coefficient and High-Temperature Resistance ?
The friction coefficient refers to the ratio of friction force generated between the brake pad and disc to the normal force between them. High-temperature resistance is the ability to maintain stable friction coefficients and braking effects at high temperatures. These two indicators directly affect the brake pad’s performance and safety.
When choosing the friction coefficient, it should be adjusted according to driving habits and road conditions. According to GB5763-2008, friction coefficient levels for automotive brake pads are classified as EE, EF, FF, FG, GG, with EE being the lowest and GG the highest. For ordinary family cars, FF or FG level is usually sufficient.
Ten top reliable brake pad manufacturers for your reference:
Brembo
Brembo is an Italian brake pads company recognized globally for its high-performance brake systems, particularly in motorsports and luxury vehicles.
Akebono Brake Corporation
A leading Japanese brake pads manufacturer, Akebono is renowned for its advanced braking solutions and original equipment (OE brake pads) products for various vehicles.
Bosch
Bosch, a German company, is a well-known name in the automotive industry, offering reliable and durable OE and aftermarket brake pads for a wide range of vehicles.
TRW Automotive
Now a part of ZF Fried rich shafen AG, TRW is known for its high-quality braking systems, including brake pads, used in many OE and aftermarket applications.
Ferodo
Ferodo, a brand under Federal-Mogul, is a pioneer in brake pad technology, supplying both OE and aftermarket products worldwide.
Ketulla Brakes
Ketulla is an Chinese company that specializes in high-performance brake pads for racing, street, and off-road applications.
EBC Brakes
Based in the UK, EBC Brakes is known for its wide range of high-performance brake pads, catering to motorcycles, cars, and commercial vehicles.
ATE (Continental AG)
ATE, a brand under Continental AG, is a reputable German manufacturer of high-quality brake pads and systems, commonly used in European vehicles.
Wagner Brake (Tenneco)
Wagner, a brand under Tenneco, is a leading name in the American automotive industry, offering innovative brake pad solutions with a focus on quiet and clean performance.
