Ceramic pads or semi-metallic?

[Brian R.]

Hi guys. Sorry if this has already been a topic… I couldnt find one like it. Im looking to buy new front brake pads for my gen 1 Honda CRV and was wondering what type of pads I should buy? What are the pros and cons of each and if there are any specific brand names I should go with all suggestions are welcome.

Thanks
Brian

Topic

[Darren]

In my opinion Ceramic is usually better. Semi-metallic is used in most European cars and are fitted as OEM in most of them.

The main difference I believe is grip. Semi-metallic grip better than ceramic but they leave your alloy rims blaaaack after a couple weeks of driving. Ceramics don’t emit a very dark dust but you need to step on the brakes a little harder to stop.

Some people choose to move from semi-metallic to ceramic because they’re quieter and don’t squeal as much.

Also you want to get a brake pad with a slot down the middle. This helps to release the vapours given off when braking.

In my opinion ceramic – unless you’re on the track then use semi-metallic.

[Dave]

The only downside ceramic pads is that they do not handle the heat as well as semi-metallic pads do and they tend to glaze over easier. So if you are harder on the brakes go with semi-metallic otherwise ceramic will be better.

[Jay]

Ceramic are the better choice. Quieter,longer life,better heat displacement,less dust and less wear on your rotors. Only downside is cost.

[kevin]

ihad semi metallic on my dodge neon they squick and glossed up bad ,,so i put what i think is ceramic pads on and there doing great no problems yet ,that was about 6 months ago

[Lorrin Barth]

I bought a set of ceramic pads for my car and on the box was a list of ingredients the pads were made of. Well, it was a long list of about 30 different things and even included walnut shells. With that long list of ingredients I had a hard time seeing what was so ceramic about them.

I’d suggest the best thing to do is to search for a car forum on the internet that supports your vehicle, there is one for most makes, and hopefully a section there on brakes. See what other people are using and like. Usually, you can’t go wrong with OEM except they may be pricey.

[Justin]

Buy a set like the original Factory OEM material. That way you know they will be quiet and work well. When you do the job make sure to putt he squeaker on the leading edge like they do from the factory… Certainly lube the caliper pins with some silicone NOT Molly grease as it turns nasty and clumps when the two mix. Some people grease the back and ears of the pads… Not a bad idea and may stop noise.

[Author]

Replies