Are Centric Brake Pads Good? An In-Depth Look
When it’s time to replace your vehicle’s brake pads, you want to choose a brand that provides safe, reliable stopping power. Centric brake pads are a popular choice among drivers looking for an affordable option without sacrificing performance. But how do Centric brake pads actually stack up? Read on for an in-depth look at the pros and cons of these brake pads to see if they are the right choice for your vehicle.
What are Centric Brake Pads?
Centric Parts is a leading manufacturer of aftermarket brake components and systems. Their brake pads are engineered to original equipment specifications and undergo rigorous testing to ensure proper fit and function.
Centric offers several lines of brake pads covering most makes and models:
- Posi QuietTM – Focuses on noise reduction and clean wheels
- StopTechTM – Performance pads for sportier driving
- Fleet PerformanceTM – Rugged pads for fleet vehicles
- C-TekTM – Affordable general use pads
Within each line, there are different compounds and designs to match your specific braking needs and budget. All Centric brake pads are manufactured to meet or exceed industry standards for safety and quality.
The Pros of Centric Brake Pads
So what makes Centric brake pads a good choice for many drivers? Here are some of the key benefits:
Strong Braking Performance
Centric brake pads are engineered to provide responsive, reliable braking power. Advanced friction formulas and pad compositions generate ample stopping force without being overly aggressive. This makes them suitable for everyday driving in a wide range of conditions.
In third-party testing by Tire Rack, Centric pads averaged competitive stopping distances of 129-133 feet from 60mph. Overall braking performance matches or exceeds that of original equipment pads in most cases.
Long Pad and Rotor Life
The compounds used in Centric brake pads are designed for longevity and resistance to fade. Many drivers report getting over 30,000 miles out of a set before needing a replacement. This helps save on maintenance costs over time.
The optimal friction levels also minimize wear on rotors. This reduces the chances of having to replace your rotors when switching brake pads. Centric claims that proper installation and bedding-in of their pads helps discs last up to 3 times longer.
Quiet Operation
Centric Posi QuietTM pads use an insulated shim design and rubberized underlayer that dampens vibration and noise. This results in smoother, quieter braking, especially when coming to a stop. Less brake noise provides a more comfortable driving experience.
Low Dust Levels
All compounds used by Centric have a relatively low dust output compared to semi-metallic pads. Less brake dust keeps your wheels cleaner between washes and reduces environmental impact.
Extensive Vehicle Applications
As one of the major aftermarket brake suppliers, Centric offers pad options for most domestic and import makes dating back to the 1970s. Finding the right part number for your vehicle is straightforward when searching application lists on their website or auto parts store sites.
Good Value
While not the cheapest pads available, Centric parts provide a good balance of quality and affordability. Their C-TekTM line offers reliable performance for everyday use at budget-friendly prices. For more demanding drivers and conditions, the StopTechTM pads deliver greater performance for a moderate step up in cost.
The Cons of Centric Brake Pads
However, Centric brake pads do have some downsides to consider:
May Be Noisier When Cold
Despite efforts to reduce noise, some drivers report more brake squeal and chatter from Centric pads, especially when cold. This temporary noise usually goes away once the pads warm up. Proper break-in and lubrication can minimize cold weather squealing.
Dust Levels May Still Be Noticeable
While Centric brake pads produce less dust than semi-metallic options, dust buildup on wheels may still be visible between cleanings. How noticeable this is depends on your driving environment and conditions.
Not Designed for Track Use
Centric pads are intended for street use, not for track days or competitive motorsports. The friction materials prioritize reasonable pad life over maximum bite and heat tolerance needed for performance driving. For track use, higher end pads are recommended.
May Need Bedding-In Period
Getting the best performance and pad life requires following proper bedding-in procedures when installing new Centric brake parts. This involves a series of controlled stops to transfer an even layer of friction material onto the rotor surface.
Not the Most High-Performance Option
While Centric makes quality friction components, pads from premium brands like Hawk Performance and EBC offer higher levels of stopping power and fade resistance. Centric is more of a mid-range option, not the top choice for modified vehicles or spirited driving.
So while Centric brake pads have some trade-offs, they provide an excellent balance of safety, longevity, and affordability for most everyday drivers.
Here is a helpful comparison table summarizing the pros and cons of Centric brake pads:
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Strong braking performance | May be noisier when cold |
| Long pad and rotor life | Dust levels may still be noticeable |
| Quiet operation | Not designed for track use |
| Low dust levels | May need bedding-in period |
| Extensive vehicle applications | Not the most high-performance option |
| Good value |
Frequently Asked Questions About Centric Brake Pads
Here are answers to some common questions about Centric brake pads:
Are Centric brake pads noisy?
Centric pads are designed to minimize noise, but some drivers report temporary squealing or other noises, especially when cold. Following proper break-in procedures helps minimize pad noise.
Do Centric brake pads produce a lot of dust?
Centric pads generate much less dust than semi-metallic options. However, brake dust may still be visible on wheels between cleanings depending on driving environment and conditions.
How long do Centric brake pads last?
Centric brake pads typically last between 30,000-50,000 miles before needing replacement. Exact pad life depends on driving habits, vehicle type, and conditions. Proper installation and bedding-in also maximizes pad life.
Are Centric and Raybestos brake pads the same?
Yes, Centric Parts and Raybestos are both brands owned by the company APC Automotive Technologies. Centric supplies OE-grade aftermarket brake components while Raybestos is sold through automotive retailers. The pads are similar in quality and performance.
Are Centric ceramic brake pads good?
Centric’s Posi Quiet ceramic pads offer excellent stopping power and long pad life of up to 3 times standard brake pads. They produce very low dust and noise levels, making them a great choice for many drivers.
Do you need to break in Centric brake pads?
Yes, following the recommended break-in procedure when installing new Centric brake pads helps properly transfer pad material to match the rotor surface. This maximizes performance, pad life, and braking consistency.
The Bottom Line on Centric Brake Pads
Overall, Centric offers a quality brake pad option that covers the needs of most everyday drivers. The pads deliver strong stopping power, long wear, quiet operation, and good value. While not the most high-performance choice, Centric brake pads are a reliable and affordable brake parts choice for many vehicle makes and models.
Following proper installation, bedding-in, and maintenance procedures helps maximize the benefits of Centric brake pads. Drivers looking for specialized high-temp compounds or extreme stopping power may want to look at more performance-oriented brands. But for the average driver seeking good safety and value, Centric brake pads are definitely worth considering.
