Ceramic pads are the best option for everyday driving, while semi-metallic pads are preferred for high-performance cars. It’s good to think about your driving style and the manufacturer’s recommendations before making your pick.
No matter the sign or reason, brake pads are one of those car repair
or maintenance tasks that seem to always be popping up. Ever since Bertha Benz (of the Mercedes-Benz fame) created brake pads from leather in the 19th century, brake pads have since become essential to today’s modern braking systems.
When it comes to buying new brake pads, you’ll likely encounter two options: ceramic, and semi-metallic brake pads. But what’s the difference?
With some help from Jerry
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, this guide will help you choose the best brake pads for your car, especially when it comes to ceramic vs semi metallic brake pads. 4.7/5 rating on the App Store | Trusted by 5+ million customers and 7 million cars 4.7/5 app rating | Trusted by 5M+ drivers What’s the difference between ceramic and semi-metallic brake pads?
As you’re shopping around for new brake pads, you'll come across two common types—ceramic and semi-metallic. Here’s a closer look at the differences between the two.
Ceramic brake pads
Since hitting the market in the 1980s, ceramic brake pads have become an increasingly popular option for daily driving. They’re typically the most expensive option when it comes to brake pads and are made from a mix of copper fibers and ceramic materials that wear well over time.
Ceramic brake pads work best in mild to hot temperatures (preferably 40 degrees Fahrenheit or above) and are good for daily driving.
Another reason why ceramic brake pads are a common choice is that they’re extremely quiet—you won’t hear any additional sound when you step on the brake. They’re also one of the cleanest options since they produce relatively little brake dust compared to their semi-metallic counterparts.
However, ceramic brake pads are a bad choice for high-performance cars since they cannot sustain the high performance and heat levels those cars require.
Semi-metallic brake pads
If you have a high-performance car, semi-metallic brake pads are what you’re looking for.
Because they’re made from a mixture of steel, copper, iron, and other metals, this option has an increased stopping power that can handle the higher pressure required by performance vehicles or vehicles that frequently tow heavy loads.
Plus, these heat-resistant pads can also handle a wide range of temperatures, which makes them able to endure colder climates than ceramic pads in addition to hot temperatures.
But there are drawbacks. Semi-metallic brake pads are harder on your brake system. This is especially true if you’re coming to fast and frequent stops.
They’re also the noisiest option and produce the most brake dust. For cars that don’t need the increased stopping capability, the semi-metallic brake pads will likely be too harsh for your car’s braking system.
Key Takeaway Ceramic brake pads are a great option for most cars except high-performance or towing vehicles, for which semi-metallic pads are the better choice.
What about organic brake pads?
In some cases, you may come across a third option—true to their name, organic brake pads are made from a mixture of organic materials (rubber, carbon, glass, fiberglass, resin, etc.).
Like ceramic brake pads, organic brake pads are best for daily driving and not special performance or heavy-duty vehicles. Though they’re easy on the vehicle’s brake system and brake softly, they tend to wear out faster than other brake pad options.
Basics of brake pads
But how do brake pads actually work? They’re a part of your large (but fairly simple) braking system.
When you step on the brake, pressurized fluid is sent through the car’s brake lines and eventually reaches a caliper at each wheel. The calipers are attached to the brake pads, which gently push against the disc rotors of each wheel. It’s this applied pressure that slows your wheels down and eventually brings your car to a stop.
Since the friction created by the brake pads and disc rotor is the critical ingredient in slowing your car down, your brake pads will inevitably wear out over time.
How to tell when your brake pads need to be replaced
As soon as you hear squealing metal sounds when you brake, it’s time to have your brake pads checked out. The squealing is a result of the rotor touching the base of the brake pad.
Some other signs that the brake pads need to be replaced may include:
Dashboard indicator light
Brake pedal vibrates when pushed
Brake pads are visibly thinner (i.e., less than a quarter-inch thick)
Choosing the right brake pads for your car
Now that you know the differences of ceramic vs semi metallic brake pads, it’s time to pick some out for your car!
There are a few things to consider when it comes to choosing brake pads:
The vehicle’s manufacturer recommendation
Your driving style (do you drive quickly and/or brake frequently? Or are you a slower driver?)
The ride you want from your car (do you drive a high-performance vehicle or drive your car like one?)
If you’re still unsure which type of brake pad is best for you, don’t be shy to take your car to an auto mechanic—they’ll be able to get your vehicle fitted with the best option.
Does car insurance cover brake pads?
Car insurance does not cover general wear and tear to your vehicle. Even if you have full coverage
insurance, you can expect to pay for brake pad replacements out-of-pocket. However, this could be a good time to revisit your car insurance plan to see whether your coverage still fits your needs. That’s where Jerry
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