The Difference Between Ceramic and Metallic Brake Pads

The braking system is the single most critical aspect of any vehicle. Because of this, proper maintenance and the use of correct parts ensure a safe and efficient ride for years to come. Replacing brake pads is an extremely easy job for any person who doesn’t mind getting a little dirty. Aside from your motor oil, the most frequent things needing to get changed are often your brake pads and brake rotors, and typically you will replace the pads about 3 times between every rotor change. The major components of the brake pad are the backing plate (where the piston pushes on) and the braking material that creates friction against the rotor and stops the vehicle. The composition of this braking material can either be composed with metal or ceramic. 

Ceramic brake pads are becoming a common topic of discussion, however, they may still be a little foreign to you. That’s okay. We’re here to discuss the pros and cons of such an innovation. With regards to price, ceramic brake pads are often more expensive, however it depends on the vehicle. Occasionally, they can be cheaper than their counterparts, so it really depends on the vehicle you’re working on. 

Continue reading to better understand the differences between the different types of brake pads, and which one better suits your needs.

Metallic or Semi-Metallic Brake Pads

Semi-metallic brake pads have been around for about 80 years and are comprised of a mixture of metals, including copper, iron, and other similar alloys in the braking material. Seeing as these have been around for so long, they have had time to be improved to their best. Because of this, they have some evident advantages, but also come with some drawbacks.

Pros of Metallic or Semi-Metallic Pads

• Work great for extreme driving conditions - These work excellently when paired with an extreme driving style, such as racing or trucking applications. They are suited for demanding or strenuous circumstances, largely due to their ability to efficiently dissipate heat. Their construction also allows for constant pedal feel. These factors coupled together makes them a nearly unbeatable option for the racetrack or heavy-duty purposes.

• Perform well, even in extremely cold climates - Metallic pads retain their performance, even in extremely harsh, cold environments. This ensures that you don’t need to heat up your brakes and “ease them in” before using them to their fullest.

• Distribute heat extremely efficiently - It’s no secret that brakes create an immense amount of heat due to the friction they cause. Under extreme circumstances, your brakes can even match the internal temperature of your engine. Metallic brake pads distribute this heat evenly throughout the entirety of the braking material, which lowers localized heat and resists against brake fade. (Brake fade is when your brakes overheat to the point that they can’t stop. It is the worst-case scenario of any braking system and avoidance of it is vital). This is important when driving through constant elevation changes because you must use your brakes repeatedly.

Cons of Metallic or Semi-Metallic Pads

• High amounts of brake dust. With any braking system, brake dust – and the mess it creates – is inevitable. Unfortunately, metallic brake pads generate significantly increased amounts of brake dust. If you enjoy having a clean car, or more importantly, clean wheels, then this is a serious consideration for you.

• Increased noise. As with brake dust, noise is another unescapable characteristic of brake pads. Metallic brakes produce much more noise compared to their counterpart. Unfortunately, performance often comes at a price.

• Increased wear on rotors. Metallic brake pads provide us with increased stopping ability. However, this is caused by significantly increased friction against the rotors, which wears both the pads and the rotors faster. This means that replacement of the rotors, and in some cases the pads, will be more frequent.

Ceramic Brake Pads

Compared to metallic based brake pads, ceramics might be considered the younger brother. Only being introduced in the ‘80s, this innovation is based on ceramic (like your bowls but much denser), mixed with small copper wires. These wires allow for better conduction of heat, and more friction. 

Pros of Ceramic Brake Pads

• Noise. Ceramic brake pads are extremely quiet compared to their counterparts, which often causes them to be used by luxury manufacturers

• Strong wear characteristics. In general, ceramic brake pads will last much longer than metallic, while also damaging your rotor less. 

• Brake dust. Contrary to metallic pads, ceramic pads produce much less brake dust.

Cons of Ceramic Brake Pads

• Poor initial performance in cold climates. Much like your engine needs to reach operating temperature in the winter before it is able to run efficiently, ceramic brake pads also need to warm up in order to perform well. If you reside in a cold climate, this is a major consideration. However, if you just drive cautiously for the beginning of the drive, in most instances you should be fine. If you plan on tracking your car, this is also a consideration as the first few laps may be slow due to brakes being under operating temperature.

• Less conduction of heat. Unlike metallic pads, ceramic pads can centralize heat in the friction area, which can lead to a hotspot in the pad, leading to overheating issues. Overheating can lead to pressurization issues in the brake fluid and can also result in warped rotors. 

• Cost more. In general, ceramic brake pads cost more than metallic (not always, but generally).

Which Brake Pad is Right for Me?

At the end of the day, both pads come with pros and cons. As with most things, it really depends on the way you drive, and your preferences.

Am I An Average Daily Commuter in Normal Conditions?

In normal driving conditions, medium climates, and when coupled with relaxed driving, ceramic brake pads perform very well and wear slower. In addition to this, when you consider the low noise operation and reduced brake dust, you begin to notice just how innovative these truly are.

Am I An Intense Driver or In Need of Heavy-Duty Operation?

If this criterion better fits your description, and you find yourself frequently requiring unrivalled stopping power or a fun track weekend getaway, then metallic or semi-metallic pads are the obvious option for you. Moreover, if you need to tow something and still retain that much needed braking power or are driving on the highway and want to ensure safety for your passengers in the case of a sudden obstacle or risk then give these a try. Lastly, if you frequently drive in cold climates, or drive in the mountains frequently, then check out our vast inventory and pick up a set of metallic brake pads today.

When Should I Replace My Pads?

How long does it take for brake pads to wear and require replacement? The standard way of recognizing when it’s time, is by measuring the braking material. If it is less than 3/32” of material, then you need to replace your pads. It is very dangerous to drive on pads that are nearing the end of their life, as it puts you and the drivers around you at risk. In addition, you should replace your pads if you notice any of the following:

• Uncommon squealing sounds

• Grinding when coming to a stop

• Vibration in the steering wheel (this can also be a result of a warped rotor)

• Pulsation in the brake pedal

• Brake pad indicator light on your dashboard (on newer vehicles) 

When it comes time to replace the brake pads on your vehicle, you can rest assured that we have all the items you may need. Browse our selection of metallic and ceramic brake pads, brake lubricants, and brake kits here at Parts Matrix.