Brake pads on the car: what it is, types, how to choose

Brake pads differ in composition and properties. This affects the conditions of their use, the permissible level of heating and service life. Also, such consumables for cars differ in quality. Let's consider the main types of brake pads and tips for selection.

Types of brake pads

The main types of brake pads:

• Semi-metallic brake pads are 30-65% composed of small metal elements. They are mixed with fillers that do not contain organics. Semi-metallic brake pads have high heat dissipation. However, they wear out quickly and make noise when the car is moving and are not suitable for use in the cold.
• Organic brake pads consist of glass, rubber, carbon and resin components. They are soft, make little noise, but are dusty. They have to be replaced frequently.
• Low-metal pads are similar to organic models in their basic composition, but they have some metal added - 10-30% steel or copper. Such an addition improves heat exchange and gives better braking. However, pads with metal create more dust during braking and make more noise.
• Ceramic brake pads are an advanced development. They are made of ceramic fibers with base metals and bonding components. They have a light weight but high cost. They are the most quiet and wear resistant.

How to choose brake pads

By quality, brake pads can be classified into several categories:

• Products that are delivered to the factory assembly line (OE). They meet the requirements of the automaker. They are sold in the branded packaging of the car brand or brake pad manufacturer. Such consumables are expensive. Among sellers and buyers, they are usually referred to as “original”.
• Brake pads designed for the aftermarket (Aftermarket). They are cheaper than the original by 30-70%. To make the products cheaper, changes are made in their composition.
• Brake pads for export to developing countries. Such brake pads are created from mixtures of low quality.

To choose the right quality brake pads, take into account their characteristics:

• The operating temperature to which the brake pads heat up. For traveling around the city at low speeds, the index of +300-350 C° is enough. For fast driving on tracks on sports cars will require an operating temperature of +800-900 C°.
• The coefficient of friction with a high figure is the best. Brake pads have an average value in the range of 0.3-0.5 units. Premium pads that are made for factories have a friction coefficient of 0.33-0.5 units.
• Price to quality ratio. Brake pads Aftermarket on quality can only slightly inferior to the pads OE. However, their cost is significantly lower.

Choosing brake pads, pay attention to reviews of a particular brand and model on the Internet. This will help to know how they work in practice. Before buying, it is desirable to inspect the products, so that there are no large cracks, indentations and bends in the metal base. The friction material should not flake off from it.