Which is the best Brake pads to choose?

My wife has a 2018 Accord Sport 1.5T, and I need to change the brake pads. The dealer wants $153 for the OEM front pads. What brand and type of pads should I use? Are ceramic pads from Napa, AutoZone, etc., okay, or is there a better option besides OEM? I do not want to end up with squeaky, dirty wheels like I did with my Civic. Any advice would be appreciated. Thanks!

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For your wife’s 2018 Honda Accord Sport 1.5T, you can opt for high-quality brake pads that won’t break your bank. You can go with the Duralast Ceramic Brake Pads from AutoZone, specifically designed for Honda vehicles and received excellent reviews from several owners. These pads are made with a ceramic friction material that provides smooth braking performance and is resistant to noise and vibration, so you won’t have to worry about squealing or dirty wheels. Plus, they’re significantly cheaper than the OEM pads at $80 for a complete set, a huge cost saving. Also, R1 Concepts Brake Pads are another great option, I prefer that you choose Duralast for their reputation and compatibility with your wife’s vehicle.

You can buy these names online or at some shops that sell car parts. Find part numbers that will work with your wife’s 2018 Accord Sport 1.5T. You can also find good brands by reading reviews written by real customers.

I’ve used Powerstop in the past and really like them. They offer good stopping power, low dust, and a reasonable price. My cars are daily drivers, not used for track time or racing. Just make sure to get, borrow, or rent the proper piston compressing/winding tool for the rear brakes!

If you want quieter operation and less dust than certain semi-metallic choices, think about ceramic pads from respected brands like Akebono. For more information check online reviews for specific models.

Options for Replacing Brake Pads on Your Wife’s 2018 Accord Sport 1.5T:

OEM vs. Aftermarket Pads:

OEM Pads (From Dealer):
Pros: Guaranteed compatibility, high quality, potentially quieter operation.
Cons: Often more expensive compared to aftermarket alternatives.
Aftermarket Pads:
Pros: Available in various price ranges and performance levels (ceramic, semi-metallic, etc.). You can find quality pads at a lower cost than OEM.
Cons: Compatibility needs verification. Some aftermarket pads may produce noise or more dust than OEM.
Types of Aftermarket Pads:

Ceramic: Known for quiet operation and reduced dust compared to traditional semi-metallic pads. They may not offer the same initial bite as certain semi-metallic options.
Semi-Metallic: Provide good stopping power and are cost-effective, but tend to be noisier and generate more dust than ceramic pads.
Recommendations:

Ceramic Pads for Quieter Performance: Considering your preference for quiet operation based on your Civic experience, ceramic pads from reputable aftermarket brands could be a suitable choice. They strike a balance between noise reduction and effective braking.
Popular Aftermarket Brands: Consider well-regarded brands such as Akebono, EBC, Wagner, Bosch, and Centric.
Check Reviews: Before purchasing, read reviews online about specific ceramic pad models available at retailers like Napa or AutoZone.
Additional Tips:

Confirm Compatibility: Ensure the pads are compatible with your exact year and model of Accord (2018 Accord Sport 1.5T).
Brake Pad and Rotor Package: For enhanced braking performance and to prevent uneven wear on new pads, consider replacing both pads and rotors.
DIY vs. Professional Installation: While changing brake pads is possible as a DIY project, correct technique is crucial for safety. If you’re unsure, consider having a mechanic handle the installation.

Ceramic and semi-metallic alternatives offer the best stopping power and performance. However, semi-metallic will wear your rotors faster than ceramic.

I’ve been using Akebono ProACT ceramic brake pads for a long time now, and to be honest, I find them super reliable and convenient. For your 2018 Accord Sport 1.5T, ceramic pads from reputable brands like Akebono, Napa, or AutoZone can be a great alternative to OEM pads. Akebono ProACT pads, in particular, are known for their low dust and noise levels, ensuring that you won’t end up with squeaky, dirty wheels like with your Civic. They offer excellent braking performance and longevity, making them a cost-effective and high-quality choice that you can trust.

For your 2018 Honda Accord Sport 1.5T, consider these options for brake pads besides OEM:

  1. Akebono Brake Pads: Known for ceramic pads offering excellent braking, low noise, and minimal dust. Popular choice for Honda vehicles.
  2. Wagner ThermoQuiet Brake Pads: Designed for quieter braking with less dust compared to semi-metallic pads. Offers good stopping power and rotor friendliness.
  3. Bosch QuietCast Brake Pads: Another ceramic option known for low noise and reduced dust, along with consistent braking performance and durability.
  4. EBC Ultimax Brake Pads: Provides enhanced braking performance while maintaining quiet operation and producing less dust.
  5. OEM Equivalent Ceramic Pads: Many aftermarket brands offer ceramic pads that meet or exceed OEM standards. Brands like Napa, AutoZone, Centric, Raybestos, or Power Stop are good options.
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