Who makes Acura brakes?
There is no single manufacturer behind Acura's braking systems; braking components are sourced from several Tier-1 suppliers contracted by Honda/Acura, and the exact supplier varies by model, year, and market.
How Acura sources its brakes
Acura relies on a multi-supplier approach to braking, pairing core caliper and rotor assemblies with friction materials from specialist suppliers and electronic braking systems from providers of ABS/ESP modules. The choice of supplier is driven by performance targets, regional supply chains, and regulatory requirements.
The following suppliers are commonly cited in industry disclosures and automotive sourcing reports as part of Acura’s braking ecosystem.
- Akebono Brake Industry Co., Ltd. (friction materials and pads)
- Nissin Kogyo Co., Ltd. (calipers and other braking components)
- Advics Co., Ltd. (brake modules and systems)
- Brembo S.p.A. (high-performance calipers and discs for sport-oriented variants)
- Bosch Mobility Solutions (ABS/ESP and brake-control electronics)
In practice, Acura’s brakes are the result of collaboration among several suppliers, and the exact mix depends on the model and market. This collaborative approach allows Acura to tailor braking performance for daily driving and for sportier variants.
Model-specific variations
Acura's global lineup includes sedans, SUVs, and performance variants, each with its own brake assembly configuration. In mainstream models, the friction material is commonly provided by Akebono, calipers by Nissin or Advics, and control systems by Bosch. For performance-oriented variants, Brembo becomes more prominent, delivering enhanced stopping power and fade resistance.
Performance-focused models
In performance-focused trims such as the Type S and high-performance models like the NSX, higher-performance components are typically specified. Brembo often supplies the calipers and discs for these variants, with carbon-ceramic options available on select packages in some markets. The exact components and options can vary by year and region.
Summary
Acura brakes are produced through a diverse supplier network rather than a single maker. Honda/Acura collaborate with multiple Tier-1 suppliers to deliver braking systems that balance everyday reliability with performance-oriented capabilities. For any given model and year, the precise supplier mix can differ, so checking the specific configuration for a vehicle is the best way to identify exact sources.
Who makes Honda's brake pads?
Akebono is the original equipment manufacturer (OEM) that makes Honda's brake pads. This means Akebono manufactures the pads that come standard on new Honda vehicles from the factory. Other reputable companies that make aftermarket brake pads for Honda vehicles include Centric, Wagner, and Brembo.
- OEM supplier: Akebono is a global leader in braking solutions and is a key supplier for many automakers, including Honda.
- Aftermarket options: While Akebono provides the OEM part, you can also find high-quality aftermarket brake pads for your Honda from other well-regarded brands.
- Examples of aftermarket brands: Some of the other companies that manufacture brake pads for Honda vehicles include Centric, Wagner, and Brembo.
Who makes OEM Acura brakes?
Akebono develops, tests and manufactures a range of advanced automotive brake components and friction materials that meet the needs of our OEM customers and vehicle owners throughout North America.
Is Raybestos better than OEM?
The Raybestos Truck And Tow Brake Pad Set fits the bill. It provides the stopping power OEM brake pads can't under extreme load and high temperatures. These brake pads also produce less dust, noise, and brake fade. That means they'll last longer than OEM brakes.
Is Akebono better than Brembo?
Neither Akebono nor Brembo is definitively "better"; the best choice depends on your priorities. Akebono is often preferred for daily driving due to its low dust and quiet operation, while Brembo is typically favored for performance applications because of its higher initial bite and stopping power.
Akebono
- Best for: Everyday drivers, comfort, and clean wheels.
- Pros:
- Low dust: Akebono ceramic pads generate less brake dust, keeping wheels cleaner.
- Quiet: Known for their quiet operation, reducing squealing during normal braking.
- Longevity: Designed to last a long time.
- Cons:
- May have less initial "bite" or stopping power compared to performance-oriented pads.
- Can sometimes be harder to find in certain retail configurations than more common brands.
Brembo
- Best for: Performance driving, track use, and maximum stopping power.
- Pros:
- High stopping power: Brembo pads are known to bite harder and stop better, especially at higher performance levels.
- Established performance brand: Brembo has a long history in performance braking systems.
- Cons:
- Higher dust: Pads designed for higher performance often produce more brake dust.
- Noise: Some Brembo pads can be noisier during slow-speed braking.
How to choose
- For a comfortable, clean daily driver: Choose Akebono.
- For maximum stopping power and performance driving: Choose Brembo.
