We’ve already talked about how to do a brake service job and how to replace your brake pads, an essential part of servicing your brakes. But even with the best maintenance, your brake pads will need to be replaced sooner or later. Some can last up to 75,000 km or more; others only last around 30,000 km. Their lifespan depends on things like the material of the brake pads, your driving habits, and your vehicle. Picking the right ones guarantees durability and performance. So, what brake pads should you get? Here at NAPA, we offer four types of brake pads: regular, premium, specialty, and fleet. We’ll introduce them below.
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No one likes getting a brake job. For many people, buying new brakes is akin to buying a new washing machine – neither are usually planned purchases, nor will they provide instant gratification (unless you really enjoy doing laundry).
Alas, you've got to do what you've got to do, and installing replacement brake pads on occasion is just part of car ownership. When that time comes, one of the main questions you may find yourself asking is: Are original equipment manufacturer (OEM) brakes better than aftermarket parts?
The answer to that question isn't black and white. Each option has its own list of pros and cons. Genuine OEM parts typically offer better reliability, warranties and fitment than aftermarket parts. On the other hand, you have more variety with aftermarket or third-party auto parts, and they may even perform better than OEM components when towing large loads or racing.
Which type of brakes is best for you: OEM or non-OEM? Let's go over some basics about brake pads in general and discuss those pros and cons.
Brake Pads: A "Crash" Course
Ceramic vs. Organic vs. Semi-Metallic
Brake pads are separated into 3 main categories or types:
- Ceramic – Provide an excellent mix of durability, noise reduction, performance and longevity. Manufacturers typically create their braking systems to accommodate ceramic pads, which means you'll find that most OEM brake pads are ceramic.
- Organic – Usually quality brake pads, though they can be made "on the cheap," which is reflected in their price.
- Semi-Metallic – Best for heavy-duty applications (racing, towing, etc.) due to their structure and durability. Longevity can be a concern, so they aren't recommended for daily driving.
Virtually all brake systems, whether positive-molded or cut-and-glued, are designed for and tuned to work with one of these types of pads. Brake pad formulas also differ from manufacturer to manufacturer – they're the equivalent to a restaurant's "secret sauce" – which translates to unique traits that affect longevity, braking power, noise, etc.
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What Makes a Good Brake Pad?
Although brake pads and components are unique to their manufacturers, all pads have one job: To brake (duh). Lots of testing and engineering goes into making the best brake pads, which offer the following, to varying degrees:
- Limited noise (no one likes squeaky brakes)
- Limited dust
- Longevity (20,000-70,000+ miles)
- Braking power
- Proper fit
What about cost? Aren't OEM replacement brakes more expensive than aftermarket or third-party parts?
Contrary to popular belief, OEM brake pads and rotors aren't pricey when compared to high-end aftermarket brakes. In fact, they're typically priced within the same range. Of course, if you're pitting OEM brakes against cheap generic brakes, there will be a noticeable difference in cost.
That said, it's imperative – we repeat: it's imperative – that you never skimp on brake pads, rotors or any auto part that handles stopping. Cheap aftermarket brake pads may make more cent, but compromising your own personal wellbeing and safety doesn't make any sense. Plus, cheap brakes that only last 30,000 miles will need to be replaced at least twice as often as good OEM brakes that last 70,000 miles.
Aftermarket vs. OEM Brake Pads: Pros & Cons
OEM
Pros:
- Fit – OEM replacement brakes are manufactured for specific makes and models.
- Noise – Original brake pads are usually quiet.
- Dust – Accumulated dust is minimal, especially when compared to cheap aftermarket and/or semi-metallic brake pads.
- Wear – OE brake pads may cause less wear on brake rotors.
- Easy to Find – Since they're manufactured for automakers, OEM brake parts can be ordered, purchased and installed at your auto dealer's service center.
- Reliable – These brakes are designed to last for tens of thousands of miles.
- Peace of Mind – OEM brake pads will be covered by an extensive warranty.
Cons:
- Stopping Distance – Premium aftermarket brake pads may offer shorter brake distances than OEM, though not always.
- Spongy Feel – OE pads can sometimes feel too soft (mushy or spongy) when applying pressure on the pedal.
- Heat – Basic OEM ceramic brake pads are typically not designed to withstand excessive heat caused by frequent, high-speed braking.
Aftermarket
Pros:
- "Special" Conditions – The main reason to purchase aftermarket brake pads is if you spend a lot of time driving on dirt, towing heavy objects, racing, or off-roading.
- Brake Fade – Less prone to brake fade (reduction in stopping power due to repeated or sustained brake friction)
- Variety – You can find dozens of brake pads (ceramic, organic or semi-metallic) that fit your particular vehicle.
- Stopping Distance – Premium aftermarket brakes will typically have greater stopping power than OEM.
Cons:
- Value – Cheap brakes cost less, but they offer very little in terms of longevity.
- Durability – Again, they're cheaply made, so you can't expect them to last more than a couple years.
- Dust – Almost always produces more brake dust, which requires more regular cleaning.
- Warranty – Coverage isn't normally as robust or extensive as the warranties that come with OEM replacement car parts and brakes.
- Noise – Oftentimes noise is a big issue with aftermarket braking pads.
- Slow to Warm Up – Performance brakes may require time to "warm up" and work as effectively as advertised.
- Toxic – Some cheap aftermarket brake pads and parts, especially older components, may be comprised of asbestos, a toxic silicate that is linked to cancers like mesothelioma
- Not for Daily Use – Premium aftermarket brakes aren't a great fit for your commuter vehicle.
In the grand scheme of things, any replacement brake pads will be better than those old, worn-out MINI Cooper brakes you've procrastinated on changing. However, there are numerous reasons why you should keep things simple and install OEM brakes.
Suffice to say, auto manufacturers don't want to be held liable for accidents caused by defective or poor-quality brakes. Cheap brakes don't necessarily save the automaker enough money to cover the potential expense of multiple lawsuits, let alone the brand damage due to word of mouth. That's why authentic brakes almost always perform better than aftermarket brakes in average, day-to-day driving scenarios.
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