What brake pads do I need for my car?
21 July 2024
Brake pads are an essential part of your car’s braking system. The brake pads use friction to assist with slowing down your vehicle. As brake pads are frequently used, they can wear out quickly. Therefore, finding the right brake pads is crucial for ensuring your car can stop safely.
Learn more about the different types of brake pads available and which pads you need for your car in our helpful article.
What are brake pads?
There are usually a pair of brake pads housed in each brake calliper, they consist of a flat piece of metal but may also use ceramics or organic materials on the edge that comes into contact with the rotor. When you press the brake pedal, the pads contact the brake rotors, creating friction that slows your car down. Since the brake pads are constantly used, the material becomes thinner over time, meaning the pads need replacing.
Why is brake dust bad for your brakes?
Brake dust is bad as it affects the performance of your vehicle’s braking system. Excessive brake dust can lead to:
- Increased noise from the brakes.
- Reduced braking performance.
- An uneven braking surface.
- Dust stuck inside the drum brakes.
- A frozen brake calliper.
What are the different types of brake pads available?
There are three main brake pad types:
Organic
Organic brake pads are made from materials like glass, rubber or carbon. Since organic pads are softer than other brake pad types, they create more brake dust and are vulnerable to wear and tear.
Semi-metallic
Semi-metallic brake pads are organic but also contain between 35-65% metal mixture. These metals include copper, bronze and steel and are held together with graphite. Typically, semi-metallic pads offer excellent braking performance and durability for daily driving or high-performance braking. Like organic brake pads, semi-metallic pads produce lots of brake dust and could wear your brake discs down faster than other brake pad types.
Ceramic
Ceramic brake pads are renowned for being long-lasting while providing excellent braking performance. Most ceramic pads are made from a dense ceramic material. They can handle high temperatures well whilst producing less brake dust. Ceramic brake pads are more durable and need replacing less often.
Have you noticed that your brakes aren’t working properly? Learn the eight signs that your brakes need changing. And, for peace of mind book your free brake check at your local Setyres branch across Southern England today. Contact our friendly team if you have questions about the services or products we offer at our garages.