What type of brake pads does Honda use?
Honda generally outfits its modern vehicles with ceramic brake pads, prized for low dust and quiet operation. However, the exact material varies by model, trim, and market, with some performance or hybrid versions using semi-metallic or other specialized pads.
Materials Honda commonly uses
Here is a snapshot of the brake-pad materials you’re likely to encounter on Honda models, and what they mean for braking performance and maintenance.
- Ceramic brake pads (ceramic or ceramic-composite): These are the most common on modern Honda passenger cars, offering low dust, quiet braking, and stable performance across a wide temperature range.
- Semi-metallic brake pads: Used on some sportier variants or higher-performance applications where more aggressive friction at high temperatures is desired.
- Organic/non-metallic pads: Less common in new Hondas but may appear on older models or budget-oriented trims; these tend to wear faster and produce more dust.
In practice, ceramic pads are the default for daily driving on most current Hondas, while semi-metallic or specialized compounds appear on specific performance-oriented or market-specific versions.
Model and variant considerations
Brake-pad choices can shift with model generation, market, and intended use. For everyday Honda sedans and crossovers, ceramic pads are typical. For sport-oriented variants and certain hybrid or performance-focused packages, manufacturers may opt for higher-friction semi-metallic pads or other high-temperature formulations to sustain braking performance under stress.
- Most modern Honda passenger cars use ceramic pads as standard.
- Performance-oriented variants may use semi-metallic pads for higher heat tolerance and braking bite.
- Very high-performance models or special editions may employ specialized or carbon-ceramic systems with corresponding pad materials.
Owners should verify the exact pad material for their specific model and year with the owner's manual or a Honda dealer, as materials can vary by generation and market.
Maintenance and practical implications
Brake-pad material influences dust, noise, rotor wear, and replacement cost. Understanding what your Honda uses helps you estimate maintenance needs and driving expectations.
- Dust and cleanliness: Ceramic pads produce less visible dust compared with semi-metallic pads, helping wheels stay cleaner longer.
- Noise and feel: Ceramic pads tend to be quieter; semi-metallic pads can be slightly louder and may feel more aggressive under hard braking.
- Rotor wear: Ceramic pads are generally gentler on rotors, while semi-metallic pads can wear rotors faster in some conditions.
- Cost: Ceramic pads are typically more expensive upfront, but may offer longer service intervals and reduced dust.
For best results, follow Honda’s maintenance recommendations and replace pads with a material matched to the original specification for your vehicle. If you’re considering after-market options, consult a qualified technician to ensure compatibility with your braking system and warranty requirements.
Summary
Honda predominantly uses ceramic brake pads on its modern vehicles, with semi-metallic or other specialized pads appearing on sportier or high-performance variants. Material choice affects dust, noise, rotor wear, and cost, so owners should check their exact specification in the manual or with a dealer to understand what their model requires and what to expect in terms of maintenance.
What are Honda OEM brake pads?
Honda OEM brake pads; Factory designed to provide consistantly safe, reliable, and quiet stopping power. Each set comes with appropriate shims. Designed and sold by artists.
What brake pad brand does Honda use?
Akebono brake
Akebono brake products: trusted by original equipment manufacturers worldwide. Akebono's OEM customers include Ford Motor Company, General Motors, Honda, Isuzu, Mazda, Mitsubishi Motors, Nissan, Stellantis, Subaru, Toyota and Volvo.
What is the downside of ceramic brake pads?
Ceramic brake pads are usually the most expensive friction option. Less bite than semi-metallic brake pads and less suitable for extremely cold climates. Possible higher braking system temperatures due to less heat absorbency than other friction materials.
What material are Honda brake pads?
The Brake Pads are Made of Ceramic Material That Will Not Cause Abnormal Noise Compared to Traditional Brake Pads. As Ceramic Brake Pads Do Not Contain Metal Components, Friction Noise Between Traditional Metal Brake Pads and Brake Discs is Avoided. Offer 10 Years Warranty.
