![]() Ceramic pads will help solve noise and dust problems as well as offer excellent stopping performance and comfortable pedal feel. Ceramic pads are more expensive ($120 for the Tahoe), but the advantages may be worth the extra money to many, especially those with custom wheels. The standard pad retailed for $68 per set (enough to cover two wheels) followed by an upgraded version at $87 and a severe-duty set at $98. What's the price difference? We looked at the line of pads from one major company for a late-model Chevrolet Tahoe. But if you tow, carry heavy loads or numerous passengers often, live in hilly or mountainous areas, or have a daily commute down a steep grade, you should consider an upgraded or severe-duty pad. Upgraded pads for normal driving will likely be noisier, produce more dust, and possibly respond with a harder pedal feel. ![]() The standard pad, if certified (see below), should meet the demands of normal driving. Nor will a family be safer with the most expensive replacement pad. Most manufacturers offer a range of pads for each application, but consumers shouldn't be fooled into believing it's always a good-better-best choice. Full-size pickups, for instance, may need more metal-for additional stopping power and reduced brake fade-than compact cars, which can use organic materials just as effectively. In fact, the formulas are highly guarded secrets and can vary even within a manufacturer's own line, depending on what type of vehicle the pads are intended for. Unlike foods that have ingredient labels, brake pads have no content labeling. Some consumers are even unaware that asbestos replacement pads are still available. While a large selection brings down prices, consumers can be confused by slick packaging, clever brand names, and pushy mechanics. Lighter in color and more expensive than other brake pads, ceramic pads are cleaner and quieter, and offer excellent braking characteristics without wearing down the rotors. With the added metal, there is more brake dust and they may be slightly noisier.Ĭeramic: These are composed of ceramic fibers, nonferrous filler materials, bonding agents, and possibly small amounts of metal. Low-metallic NAO: These are made from an organic formula mixed with small amounts (10 to 30 percent) of copper or steel to help with heat transfer and provide better braking. These pads are softer and create less noise, but they wear faster and create more dust. Nonasbestos organic: Sometimes listed as organic or NAO, this type of pad is made from fibers, such as glass, rubber, carbon, and Kevlar, with filler materials and high-temperature resins. These pads are more durable and have excellent heat transfer, but also wear down rotors faster, can be noisy, and may not perform optimally at low temperatures. Semimetallic: This formula, containing about 30 to 65 percent metal, typically includes chopped steel wool or wire, iron powder, copper or graphite mixed with inorganic fillers, and friction modifiers that bond all the ingredients together. There are four general types of brake pads for cars and trucks: Another friction compound may have a soft feel, and work quietly, but wear out much more quickly. While one may offer superior heat transfer-and therefore better braking performance-it may also be noisier and more prone to depositing unsightly brake dust on the wheel rims. The different friction materials in use today often have design compromises. Automaker suppliers have developed additional friction compounds, and the aftermarket now offers a dizzying array of replacement brake products under dozens of brand names. Today, however, asbestos has been all but eliminated, because it can't meet contemporary cars' higher performance standards as well as concern over health hazards from asbestos dust. Aftermarket suppliers rarely offered different performance grades or price points for either type of pad. The mechanic simply replaced the old pad or shoe with the same type. Disc and drum brakes used only two types of friction materials-semimetallic and asbestos. Servicing brakes 25 years ago required few decisions other than choosing a mechanic. The cheapest brake job may compromise safety, and the most expensive parts may not make your vehicle any safer than the standard part. ![]() Given that a large percentage of consumer complaints to the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA) involves brakes-and the brake system is one of the most critical elements of vehicle safety-it's important to understand the choices consumers face when taking their vehicles to a brake shop. While the federal government sets performance standards for brake systems in new vehicles, there are no government regulations covering replacement brake pads. ![]()
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorWrite something about yourself. No need to be fancy, just an overview. ArchivesCategories |