• Why Upgrade Your Brake Pads?

Brake pads are a critical component in your vehicle’s braking response. OEM pads are typically designed with comfort and quietness in mind, rather than peak braking performance. While this may be sufficient for daily driving, in scenarios like high-speed driving, long downhill descents, or carrying heavy loads, OEM pads may experience reduced braking force and increased stopping distance.

The main reason to upgrade your brake pads is to improve braking performance and driving safety. Performance pads often use higher-friction materials that deliver more effective braking force and maintain consistent performance even under high temperatures, reducing the risk of brake fade. This gives drivers greater confidence and control in unexpected situations.

• Who Should Consider Upgrading?

If you're not planning to change your stock calipers or rotors, or you're working within a limited budget but want to enhance braking force and pedal response, upgrading your pads is the most direct and cost-effective solution.

• What Changes After Upgrading? How to Choose the Right Brake Pads?

The most noticeable change after upgrading brake pads is the improved pedal response. Where previously you might have had to press deeper to start slowing down, upgraded pads respond more promptly and linearly, giving you more precise control.

These differences stem from the pad's compound and material formulation. Here are a few key points to consider when choosing brake pads:

• Driving Needs
  Match your pad choice to your typical driving habits. If you often drive on mountain roads, attend track days, or drive aggressively, go for high-performance, high-temperature resistant pads. For city commuting and family use, prioritize low-dust, quiet formulas.

• Pedal Feel Preference
  Different pad materials provide different pedal characteristics. NAO (ceramic/organic) pads tend to have a softer, more progressive feel, while metal-fiber-based pads feel firmer and more direct.

• Dust & Noise
  If you care about wheel cleanliness or want to avoid frequent cleaning, choose low-dust and low-noise pads. High-performance pads often generate more dust and noise due to their aggressive compounds, but also offer stronger and more consistent braking. Balance these factors based on your priorities.

• Rotor Compatibility & Condition
  Before upgrading, check that your current rotors are in good condition, no excessive wear, cracks, or hotspots, so the new pads can perform at their best. If the rotors are worn, consider resurfacing or replacing them together with the pads.

There’s no single “correct” brake pad. Choose based on your vehicle, your driving habits, and the braking feel you want.

Common Benefits After Upgrading:

• Shorter stopping distances

• Improved resistance to brake fade

• More linear and confident pedal response

Note: Brake pad performance is also closely tied to driving habits. For example, on long descents, it's important to use engine braking and intermittent braking to avoid overheating—even high-performance pads can fail or wear prematurely if misused.

These are the basic principles to guide your brake pad upgrade. However, since every driver’s preferences and vehicle conditions differ, the real benefits are best discovered through actual use and adjustment. Only then will you find the setup that truly suits your needs.

• FAQ – What Happens After You Upgrade Brake Pads?

Q1: Will the brakes feel too sensitive or hard to control after upgrading?

No. If you choose the right compound, the upgraded pads will deliver a more stable and responsive brake feel but not in a sudden or harsh way. Most drivers feel the brake response becomes more immediate and confidence-inspiring.

Q2: Will upgraded pads be noisy? Will there be strange sounds?

Street-oriented performance pads are usually low-noise under normal conditions. If noise occurs, please refer to our Brake Pads Installation and Bed-In Advice. Higher-friction compounds may make slight sounds when cold or at low speeds, which is normal and does not indicate a malfunction.

Q3: Will there be more brake dust? Will my wheels get dirtier?

It depends on your vehicle and the pad compound. Pads marked "low-dust" typically produce dust within acceptable limits. A strong brake feel means the pads are working effectively with the rotors -some dust is normal.

Japanese vehicles often use low-dust, lower-friction OEM pads for comfort and cleanliness. After upgrading, you may notice slightly more dust. European cars prioritize brake performance and often use metallic compounds, which naturally create more dark, sticky dust. After upgrading to cleaner aftermarket formulas, many Euro car owners actually find their wheels stay cleaner. If wheel cleanliness is a priority, choose ultra-low-dust formulations to balance appearance and performance.

Q4: Will performance pads wear out faster?

All brake pads undergo rigorous testing and meet industry standards. However, high-friction formulas may wear faster—this also depends on driving habits. Misuse, like prolonged braking on long downhill roads, can accelerate wear regardless of the material. To extend pad life, use proper techniques like engine braking and avoid continuous heavy brake use.

Q5: How do I know which type of brake pad is right for me?​​​​​​​

Check the recommended applications for each pad and match them with your driving style. If you drive hard or often drive in extreme conditions, look for high-metal content and heat-resistant compounds.

Q6: Why do the brakes feel strange right after installation?

New brake pads require a bedding-in period. Please refer to our Brake Pads Installation and Bed-In Advice for proper use. It's normal for the brakes to feel slightly different at first.

Q7: Why are the brakes noisier during cold starts or after rain?

Moisture and cold temperatures can cause light brake noise. This is common and typically goes away after a few stops—it’s not a defect and doesn’t affect braking performance.

Q8: Will new pads work poorly with old rotors? Should I replace them together?

New pads and rotors together provide the best performance. When both surfaces are clean and fresh, pad contact is maximized for optimal bite and friction.

However, if your rotors are still smooth and within thickness specs, you may keep them. Resurfacing them (if possible) can minimize compatibility issues. But if your rotors show any of the following, replacement is strongly recommended:

Deep grooves or scoring / Thickness below factory minimum (often stamped as “MIN TH”) / Blue spots or cracks from overheating / Warping or vibration under braking

• Start Your Braking Upgrade with the Pads​​​​​​​

You don’t need to overhaul the whole braking system at once. Starting with upgraded brake pads is the simplest and most effective first step. Whether you're prioritizing family safety or seeking better control behind the wheel, the right pads can make a noticeable difference.

Everyone has different expectations for brake feel and drives in different environments—there’s no universal “best” pad, only the one that’s best for you.
Start by identifying your needs and pairing your choice with proper installation and driving habits. That’s how an upgrade truly delivers.