Ceramic vs Semi-Metallic Brake Pads

Ah, brake pads. Is there anything more crucial to driving than the ability to bring your vehicle to a stop? With so many different moving parts, it's important to remember that bits of the braking mechanisms are wholly reliant on your choice.

So, let's talk about ceramic vs. semi-metallic brake pads. What difference do they make?

Our team at Oklahoma City Volkswagen is here to find out. Together, we'll help drivers in Oklahoma City, Edmond, and Norman, Oklahoma, select the right set for them.

Read on for more information.

All About Ceramic

When you look at the core of ceramic brake pads, you'll find they're made of a durable ceramic compound. Typically, this is strengthened with other materials, built to assist with the management of friction and heat alike. These pads were also once composed of copper but the amount included in the compound has since significantly decreased.

Ceramic brake pads tend to be very quiet as well as experience less wear and tear. They last for a long time and perform well through a range of driving conditions.

Should You Opt for Semi-Metallic?

Conversely, semi-metallic brake pads come with their own set of advantages. They are built for impressive heat transference and will help to divert it from the rotor, which prevents warping. Warping may occur if the rotor is overheated, so it's good to keep that in mind.

Semi-metallic pads are built to be very strong and hard. So, they wear down slowly. If you demand more exertion from your vehicle-like towing-this type of brakes might be the best option for you.

How They Differ in Comparison

Ceramic vs. semi-metallic: When it comes down to the differences, it's really a simple, straightforward differentiation. The materials are what make the brake pads different as well as the perks that come with each. If you're choosing between the two, each has its advantages, depending on your preference while driving.

If you're a driver of high-performance vehicles, semi-metallic brake pads are ideal for track driving or even towing. They provide good braking over a variety of temperatures and conditions, since their core materials conduct heat well and allow the systems to cool. They also tend to be more inexpensive, although they may be noisier than ceramic brake pads.

Ceramic brake pads are high quality, made of the aforementioned compound. This differentiates them from how semi-metallic pads are structured. They're quiet with a quick recovery, leave little dust on your wheels, and last for a significant amount of time. If noise control is your preference, this might be the right choice.

As you learn the differences between each, you'll certainly decide on a material that suits you. Some types of brake pads might not be compatible with certain vehicle models, so be sure to conduct your preliminary research before making your decision.

Want More Information?

Now that you've learned the basic differences between ceramic vs. semi-metallic brake pads, which would you opt for in your next set of wheels? As we've seen, ceramic tend to last longer, while semi-metallic brake pads provide excellent heat transference. They both come with perks-the choice is yours.

To try out either set in a model today, come visit us at Oklahoma City VW. We're proud to serve drivers of Oklahoma City, Edmond, and Norman, OK.

Swing by today!