Ceramic vs semi-metallic brake pads is a simple choice once you know how you drive.
Ceramic pads are the quiet ones. They make less dust and less noise, and they last longer. They also cost the most. One Canadian parts retailer prices premium ceramic pads at $80 to $120 per axle, and says they can pass 50,000 km.
Semi-metallic pads handle heat well. They bite harder when the brakes get hot, so they suit towing and heavy trucks. They sit in the middle on price.
Organic pads are the cheapest of the three. They wear out faster, so the low price doesn’t always save you money.
Here’s a quick way to pick:
- Daily driving in the city: ceramic
- Towing or a work truck: semi-metallic
- Tight budget, light use: organic or economy pads
Whatever you pick, replace both wheels on the axle at the same time. Our mechanics can match the right pad to your car. For full prices, read our guide to brake pad replacement cost in Vancouver.
Service desk The full guide
Brake pad replacement cost in Vancouver: the published prices, what a quote covers and how to compare quotes.