One thing many people don’t realize when shopping for brakes is that there are actually quite a few options to choose from. One of the more popular options in recent years is ceramic brake pads. While these were first introduced in the 1980s, they’ve become increasingly popular in recent years.
These days, they are the go-to choice for a large portion of drivers because they are more durable than rubber brake pads—but what makes them so special? In this post, we’ll go into detail on all the benefits of ceramic brake pads so you can see why so many other people have already fallen in love with them.
What Are Ceramic Brake Pads?
If you’re unfamiliar with these brake pads, let’s first cover what exactly they are. When most people think of ceramic, they think of cups and dinnerware. When people think of brake pads, they think of rubber or other similar materials that have a little give to them. However, many modern brake pads are made of stiffer, denser materials, including ceramic.
Having ceramic brakes is like giving your brakes a superpowered boost, because they have copper fibers woven into the material. On top of that, these fibers also boost their ability to help your brakes grip better and cool down faster. Basically, these brakes can do it all, but let’s dive into the finer details that make them such a popular choice.
Durable and Long-Lasting
Compared to some other options on the market, ceramic pads are some of the most durable and long-lasting options available today. We can’t overstate how strong the ceramic is in these pads. Built to last, they can stand up to the constant grind against your car’s rotors.
The wear and tear they experience is significantly less than many other pads on the market, which means fewer replacements and less worry about your brakes failing. Even though the initial price might be a bit higher, the long lifespan of these brakes actually makes them the more affordable option in the long run. That means they’re an ideal choice for those looking for long-term savings.
Reliable Under Heavy Usage
Of course, that longevity would mean nothing if they weren’t also reliable throughout their entire long life. Fortunately, ceramic pads are also prized for their reliability rating. This is thanks to their remarkable heat dissipation. Because of the copper fibers woven into each pad, these brakes are able to efficiently dissipate heat that builds up over time when braking. Brake failure in large part results from overheating, so the fact that ceramic ones can remedy this issue so effectively is what makes them a top option for many car owners.
Ceramic brake pads boast interior strength that rubber pads simply can’t match. A brake pad that breaks down easily will not be one that you can safely rely on to stop your vehicle at a moment’s notice. Thanks to how strong these pads are, you can rest easy knowing that you’ll always be able to halt your car exactly when needed.
Quieter When in Use
One of the most annoying things about some brakes, particularly metallic options, is how loud they are. While that obviously means they’re doing their job, the noise factor turns many drivers off. Luckily, ceramic brakes are surprisingly quiet. When braking hard with a set of ceramic pads, you won’t hear anything other than your tires squealing on the pavement beneath you. The reason for this is ceramic brakes operate at a higher frequency than the average person’s hearing range, making them almost completely silent.
Creates Less Residue and Won’t Rust
Another benefit of ceramic brake pads is their quiet operation and low dust production compared to other materials like metallic pads, and they do not rust since they are made from nonmetallic materials. They generate fine dust that’s typically lighter in color, making it less noticeable on wheels. However, while they produce less dust overall, the residue can still accumulate over time, requiring regular cleaning to maintain the appearance of your wheels.
While dust does accumulate, it generally doesn’t affect their performance as much as it does with other pad types. While ceramic pads produce less dust, they do not rust, making this a great option for people who live in wet or salty environments..
While dust is minimal and rust is not a worry, over time, the dust buildup can contribute to increased wear on the pads and rotors, emphasizing the importance of regular maintenance to ensure optimal performance and longevity. Scheduled upkeep of ceramic pads ensures good heat resistance and longevity, contributing to a smoother braking experience.
Where To Get Your Ceramic Brakes?
Now that you better understand what makes ceramic brakes a popular choice these days, it’s time to decide if you want to get a set for yourself. When you need front or rear brake pads, WheelerShip is here to help. The make, model, and year of your car will all play a role in determining which ones will fit your vehicle.
Be sure to check out the rest of our products as well. We sell wheels, tires, and many other automotive replacement parts. If you need top-quality car parts at affordable prices, WheelerShip is the best place to stock up.