Are OEM brake pads better than aftermarket?
When it comes to maintaining your vehicle's braking system, one of the most common questions car owners face is whether to choose OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) brake pads or aftermarket options. As the owner of Kevin's Autos, I have years of experience in car maintenance and repair, and I'm here to break down the differences, advantages, and disadvantages of both types of brake pads to help you make an informed decision.
Understanding OEM and Aftermarket Brake Pads
OEM brake pads are made by the same manufacturer that produces the original parts for your vehicle. They are designed to meet the exact specifications set by the car manufacturer, ensuring compatibility and performance. On the other hand, aftermarket brake pads are produced by third-party companies and can vary widely in quality, performance, and price.
Advantages of OEM Brake Pads
- Quality Assurance: OEM brake pads are tested to meet strict safety and performance standards, providing peace of mind.
- Perfect Fit: Since they are designed specifically for your vehicle, OEM pads ensure a perfect fit and optimal performance.
- Warranty Coverage: Using OEM parts often helps maintain your vehicle's warranty, as they comply with manufacturer specifications.
Disadvantages of OEM Brake Pads
- Higher Cost: OEM brake pads tend to be more expensive than their aftermarket counterparts.
- Limited Options: You may have fewer choices in terms of performance characteristics and materials.
Advantages of Aftermarket Brake Pads
- Cost-Effective: Aftermarket brake pads are generally more affordable, making them an attractive option for budget-conscious consumers.
- Variety: There is a wide range of aftermarket options available, allowing you to choose pads that suit your driving style and needs.
- Performance Options: Some aftermarket pads are designed for enhanced performance, such as improved stopping power or reduced dust.
Disadvantages of Aftermarket Brake Pads
- Quality Variability: The quality of aftermarket brake pads can vary significantly between manufacturers, which may lead to inconsistent performance.
- Potential Fit Issues: Some aftermarket pads may not fit as perfectly as OEM pads, potentially leading to noise or reduced effectiveness.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the choice between OEM and aftermarket brake pads depends on your specific needs, budget, and preferences. If you prioritize quality and compatibility, OEM brake pads may be the better choice. However, if you're looking for a more cost-effective solution with a variety of options, aftermarket pads could be the way to go. At Kevin's Autos, we recommend consulting with a trusted mechanic to assess your vehicle's needs and help you make the best decision for your braking system.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the downside of ceramic brake pads?
Cons : Ceramic brake pads are pricier than other types. Plus, they underperform in extreme cold. In addition, ceramic doesn't absorb as much heat as other materials. Consequently, more stress is distributed to the rest of the braking system.
How many miles do factory brake pads last?
between 30,000 and 70,000 miles
Brake pads generally last between 30,000 and 70,000 miles, but some can last as long as 100,000 miles. There are many factors that account for this wide range. First, brake pads come in a variety of types and compositions and are attached to even more varying brake systems and rotors.
Are OEM brake pads ceramic or metallic?
They are semi-metallic, as are nearly all original brake pads. The benefits are less dust and noise than metallic, but better initial cold bite than ceramic. Less dust? I think OEM BMW pads are specifically designed to dust like crazy.
What kind of brake pads are the best to buy?
Different brake pads are recommended for different driving conditions. Ceramic pads are ideal for conservative and highway driving, semi-metallic pads are suitable for aggressive and mountainous/towing driving, and organic pads are best for city driving.
Do higher quality brake pads make a difference?
Low quality brake pads can be very noisy, wear down faster and also cause wear on other brake system parts like brake rotors – which means spending more in the long run.
Is it worth getting premium brake pads?
However, premium brake pads will offer better performance, and will always outperform lower quality brands. Premium brake pads have an increased stopping power and decreased brake fade. That means brake performance will remain consistent no matter how much pressure they are put under.
What type of brake pads last the longest?
You'll find ceramic brake pads on high-performance and luxury cars because they are made of high-quality materials. As such, ceramic brake pads last the longest of them all. How long do ceramic brake pads last on vehicles? They can perform reliably for up to 75,000 miles on average!
Do OEM brake pads last longer?
Aftermarket brakes vary in longevity depending on the type of material, what you drive, and how you drive. You can expect anywhere from 20,000 to 70,000 miles on a set of brake pads. How long do OEM brake pads last? Typically, OEM brake pads will last from around 30,000 miles and up.
Are factory brake pads better than aftermarket?
Genuine OEM parts typically offer better reliability, warranties and fitment than aftermarket parts. On the other hand, you have more variety with aftermarket or third-party auto parts, and they may even perform better than OEM components when towing large loads or racing.
Do ceramic brake pads wear out rotors faster?
Ceramic brake pads can create excessive rotor wear if rotors are not the same high quality as the brake pads themselves. This is why it's important to make sure that the entire braking system on the vehicle is made up of parts that are engineered to work together.
