Brakes are a complex system, and they may look different from one vehicle to another. However, they all serve the same purpose – to slow and stop your car. Most vehicles on the road today utilize a disc brake system as their service brakes. Within the disc brake system, the brake pads are responsible for pressing against the rotors. They endure a lot of wear and tear over time, which is why you may be asked what kind of brake pads to use on your vehicle next time you serve them.
There are three main types of brake pads that we will discuss in this blog – Organic, Semi-Metallic, and Ceramic.
Organic Brake Pads - As you can probably guess, these brake pads are made of organic matter, usually a mix of rubber resin, glass, and other substances. The pros of organic brake pads are that they are less noisy and easier on the brake rotors. They are fairly inexpensive and are fit for the everyday driver. More than half of vehicles on the road today have this type of brake pad.
Semi-Metallic Brake Pads - These brake pads can be 30-65% metallic (copper, graphite, steel). They are more durable than organic brake pads and have slightly more heat tolerance. They can be suitable for everyday drivers and heavy-duty drivers. Because they are metallic, they can be noisier. Another downside is that they perform better in warmer climates than colder ones.
Ceramic Brake Pads - Ceramic brake pads are made of ceramic fibers, and they are very lightweight and quiet. They are also some of the most expensive options on the market. That cost can be justified for some people since they don’t break down as fast as the other options.
Next time you bring your vehicle to Nortex Lube and Tune for brake service, consider these options. Feel free to strike up a conversation with our team about what is most suitable for your car. Don’t forget to choose our auto repair shop for all your brake pad replacements and other braking needs.