Brake pads are the simplest components of your braking system, but they are still vital. Knowing which pads you need will ensure you get the required performance and lifespan from your braking setup. Let's discuss the pros and cons of performance and OEM pads, giving you all the information you need to make the right choice.
Performance Brake Pads vs OEM: A Detailed Comparison
You may assume that performance brake pad upgrades will be superior to OEM pads in every aspect, but they both offer specific pros and cons that you should learn about and consider:
What Is The Difference In The Braking Capability Of OEM vs Performance Brake Pads?
- OEM Pads: OEM pads are designed to meet the manufacturer's specs. They offer solid performance for daily driving and provide reliable stopping power under normal conditions. However, you may experience fade in more extreme driving situations.
- Performance Pads: Upgraded performance pads often incorporate carbon fiber, graphite, and steel in the pad itself. These materials improve heat dissipation while also allowing the pads to create more friction with the rotors. This means better performance under hard driving situations, such as when towing or driving down a long mountain pass.
Which Pads Produce The Most Dust And Noise?
- OEM Pads: Some OEM pads tend to produce noticeable brake dust. They are, however, quiet in regular use and should not produce noticeable squealing. They may require frequent wheel cleaning.
- Performance Pads: Performance brake pads made using semi-metallic materials can produce noticeable dust and some noise depending on how performance-oriented they are. Pads constructed with a carbon-fiber ceramic composition are quieter and tend to produce less brake dust than OEM pads. Performance racing pads intended predominantly for track use tend to be noisier.
Which Pads Offer The Best Durability At An Affordable Price?
- OEM Pads: These pads tend to offer a decent lifespan in regular use. However, they can sometimes be pricey due to dealer markups or branding, and can wear out prematurely if used regularly in hard driving situations.
- Performance Pads: These pads are designed to handle the stresses of hard use and high temperatures and will offer superior durability in these conditions. Pricing varies based on the type of performance pad you choose. You have your pick from one step above OEM to full track-spec performance pads. Overall, you get more for your money with a performance pad.
Are OEM Or Performance Brake Pads Best For Daily Driving?
Performance brake pads come in all types and specifications to suit a wide range of preferences:
- OEM replacement performance pads tend to cost less than the manufacturer’s equivalents and due to their advanced design, will still deliver ample braking capabilities, less dust, and comparable noise levels.
- High-performance replacement pads are designed to offer superior braking performance under heavy-duty use and are available in a variety of specifications ranging from fast road cars to full race-ready track cars. They'll give you that extra level of braking safety in crucial situations.
How Much Do Performance Brake Pads Cost?
At Eurosport Tuning we have a broad range of performance brake pads to cater to a variety of driving needs. Our HAWK performance pads are a perfect place to start, as the range goes all the way from OEM replacements that start under $100 right up to track pads that are designed to shrug off 1600 ℉ temperatures lap after lap that can cost several hundred or more. HAWK Street 5.0 or EBC Yellow Stuff pads offer a great fit for daily usability and occasional track use. Take a look at some of our most popular brake pad options here:
Can I Replace Performance Brake Pads Myself?
Yes. Brake pad replacement (yes, even performance pads) is definitely a DIY job that can be done with minimal mechanical experience. Find a trusted tutorial and round up a few commonly available tools, and each side should take between 30 minutes and an hour, depending on your expertise. Tools and equipment for brake pad change:
- A set of replacement brake pads
- Jack and jack stands, or a car lift
- Lug wrench and torque wrench
- Socket set and brake caliper tool
What About Brake Lines and Hoses?
OEM brake lines work great in normal conditions, and if you are happy with the brake pedal feel, then there is no need to change them.
However, stainless steel lines are the way to go if you want a more responsive and consistent feel from your brake pedal. Due to the rigidity of the stainless steel, all of the pressure you put into the pedal goes to the pads rather than to expand the OEM rubber hoses. This results in far quicker pad engagement and a more positive brake feel, in all types of driving. Stainless steel brake lines also tend to last longer than OEM hoses.
Performance Brake Pads And Components From EuroSport Tuning
At EuroSport Tuning we sell performance auto parts that enhance the capabilities of your Audi, BMW, Porsche, Mercedes, Volkswagen, or Volvo. We sell you the same high-quality brake pads, rotors, and brake kits that we put on our own cars, and every brand we offer is one that we personally believe in.
- We only supply high-quality parts
- Our parts are shipped same day
- We keep you updated throughout the shipping process
- Our simple no-hassle returns policy provides extra peace of mind
If you're ready to enhance the braking performance of your vehicle, then take a look at our comprehensive range of performance brake pads from mild to wild. Contact our knowledgeable team and let us help you pick out the best brake pad upgrade for your vehicle.
