After experiencing some issues with the brakes in my car within the past few weeks of driving, I concluded that I would need a new pair of brake pads after doing some of my own research. Since I had never replaced the brake pads in my car before this, I did some more reading to make sure that I purchased the right materials for the job.
Are brake pads universal? The brake pads that are found inside of a vehicle are not universal. In other words, each type of car will have their own size and shape requirements for brake pads.
When deciding which brake pads to use as a replacement for your old ones, you will need to find the specific shape and fit for your individual vehicle’s braking system.
When it comes to replacing any kind of component inside of your car, it can be both stressful and frustrating to find the individual pieces that will fit correctly and work for the purposes that you need. For brake pads, specifically, it is important to choose the right pieces so that you can have safe and functional brakes in your car.
If you have ever had to find replacement brake pads throughout your time driving, you might have wondered if you could use different variations interchangeably. Whether you are currently in this situation or would like to get prepared for any potential repairs in the future, keep reading to find out if brake pads are universal.
Are Brake Pads Universal?
Throughout months and years of driving, it is inevitable that the components within your car’s braking system will start to gradually erode and collect the normal wear and tear that will come with consistent use.
The brakes of a car work to bring the vehicle to a complete stop through the act of friction between all of the interior parts. When the driver puts pressure onto the brake pedal, the components of the braking system will come in contact with each other and essentially complete a scraping motion.
When this goes on for long periods of time, especially when the driver is not careful while braking on a daily basis, the brake pads will begin to get worn out from all of the pressure that is exerted on them whenever the vehicle must come to a complete stop.
It is inevitable that you will need to replace the brake pads in your car at some point. When you find yourself in this predicament, it can be easier to purchase the first set of brake pads that you see and call it a day.
However, not all brake pads will work for every car, since they are not universal components.
Brake Pads:
- Not universal/interchangeable between cars
- Must fit individual size of the vehicle’s braking system
- Each model will require a specific brake pad size and type
When finding the correct brake pads for your vehicle, they must fit the individual size of the vehicle’s braking system. In other words, each model will require a specific brake pad size and type in order to work inside of the braking system.
The wrong types of brake pads most likely will not fit into your car, or they will just not work properly when installed, which can get dangerous.
It is very important to locate the actual brake pads that you need for you car, which is why I have come up with a detailed process on how to do so effectively. Keep reading on to the next section to get all of the information on this topic.
How To Choose The Right Brake Pads
Since brake pads are not universal for every model of car that exists, and a detailed decision process is involved in finding the correct fit, you are probably curious to find out how you can make the right choice for your own car.
When it comes to choosing the right brake pads, the final decision can be made by following just a few simple steps, as outlined in the list below. With the knowledge of the type of brake pad that you need for your car, as indicated by the manufacturer, you will be on your way to finding the perfect product with the help of this process.
How To Choose The Right Brake Pads:
- Choose bonded/riveted friction material
- Consider your driving preferences and habits
- Make a decision between metallic, ceramic, and organic materials in your brake pads
- Assess and maintain your existing brake system before installation
First and foremost, you will need to choose between bonded or riveted friction material within the brake pads that you plan to purchase. This will determine how your vehicle will come to a stop when you consult the brake pedal.
Next, you should be very realistic with yourself about your day to day driving habits. Where do you usually drive and how often? Do you stick to flat roads, freeways, or are you constantly scaling the elevated roads surrounding mountains?
Make a decision between the possible materials that you can purchase in your brake pads as well. Some of these components are made of metal, whether it is mostly metallic or semi. They can also be organic or ceramic.
Lastly, you will need to assess and maintain your existing brake system before installation. Make sure one more time that these new brake pads will work for your vehicle, and make any repairs as needed before you add it in.
Are Brake Rotors Universal?
If you ever find yourself in a situation where you are in need to replacement brake pads in your car, you might also need to get a new rotor for the same purpose.
Now that we have established that the brake pads in one car can not be used interchangeably with another model, you might be wondering if the same concept goes for the rotors in your braking system as well.
In this section, we will be answering the same question about brake rotors as we did with brake pads previously.
To answer the question of whether or not brake rotors are universal, the answer is not necessarily. Take a look at the brief outline below for a quick explanation.
Brake Rotors:
- Not fully universal/interchangeable
- Can be used with any car as long as the mount size is correct
- The components should be fitted the same way as the factory rotor (ie 6 bolt, center lock)
Brake rotors are not fully universal and interchangeable, but they can be considered slightly more versatile than the brake pads that were discussed previously.
They can generally be used with any car, as long as the size of the mount is correct. So, when looking for a new brake rotor, match the attachment piece of your old one with your potential purchase.
The components of the replacement brake rotor should also be fitted the same way as the original rotor. For example, some rotors are categorized as 6 bolt, center lock, and more.
Basically, if you can get the rotor to fit into your braking system, you will be able to use it in your car, without having to conduct a search that is overly specific like the brake pad process.
In conclusion, brake pads are not able to be universally used within all types of cars. Instead, you will need to take note of the correct size and shape that will flow seamlessly with your braking system. Regardless of your car’s individual requirements, you will be able to find exactly what you are looking for with this simple process.
