So I replaced front rotors and pads some ~5k miles ago. Braking was still not great and knew I had to handle the back soon enough. I strated to get annoying squeeeeeek noise (mostly a traffic light stop) and figured it might be the back ones. I replaced the rear rotors and pads this past week-end. Nice braking improvement, no change in Squeeeek $%^$^%. So perhaps it is the front. I did not buy high end stuff, and can't even recall what brand I used on the front (all I know not the same than back). I have read a lot of threads here and there are so many possible reasons and remedies. But I felt like upgrading my front pads anyway in the hope it might also cure the squeeeeeek. Any thoughts on Raybestos semi-metallic? Rockauto sells at ~$65 but seems like I can find on Ebay for ~$45

Cheers

 

OK, went for a set of Wagner semi-metallic Thermoquiet (from Advanced Auto). Got them 30% off so ~$45 instead of ~$65. I put some of these on the rear so will stay consistent, and hope the squeeek will go and improve braking overall. Will let you know

Cheers

 

Raybestos offers several different grades/types of semi-metallic pads. I'm sure they're not "all created equal"

On my older Jags I had great results from Raybestos "RPG Professional Grade"....or something like that. I'll try to get the exact name

However, nowadays I think Akebono pads are the greatest and would prefer them over any other

Cheers
DD

 

Thanks Doug. Good to know.

Cheers

 

I work at an auto parts store, so I am quite familiar with Raybestos. The Professional Grade pads are very good quality. We also carry a brand called Evolution (by Power Stop), which are ceramic and $33 cheaper than our semi-metallic PG Raybestos. My XJR has these pads all the way around, and I am very happy with them.

The advantages of ceramic pads are that they are a lot quieter than semi-metallic pads, and also produce much less brake dust. The disadvantage of ceramic pads is that they are tougher on brake rotors. Don't go with cheap rotors if you put ceramic pads on.

 

Are these the Z16 pads? I have on numerous occasions nearly bought one of the Powerstop kits with rotors and pads, but always chicken out. Good to hear they are decent!

 

Brian....cheap is as cheap does ;o)
The brakes on these cars are simple and efficient.
The concensus seems to be for Akebono Ceramic pads as the pad of choice.
I fitted these 60,000klm ago and are really great, NO SQUEAL, NO DUST and great braking.
The only thing is they do take a bit longer to bed in.
When replacing pads, always make sure mounting areas are clean and free of debri.
Smear a litle 'anti-squeal' on back of pads and a dab of ant-sieze on caliper mounting pins and you're good to go ;o)
The discs on these cars are good for one light scimming before they need replacement.
I'm on my second set of rotors in 200,000klm

 

We don't carry the Z16 pads, so I don't know about those. These are Evolution pads. I can say that, with 15,000-20,000 miles on the ones on my XJR, they are surprisingly good. No squeaking and no dust. Car stops on a dime, also.

 

Glad to report that new Wagner "ThermoQuiet" pads and a good greasing of the guide bolts did the trick. Good braking and no more squeeking!

Cheers