When it comes to safety, your vehicle needs the brakes more than any other part. And you shouldn’t take any chances when it comes to this aspect of driving. The brake pads form a key component that ensures the braking system is in great health.
Excellent brake pads work in sync with the brake rotors and the brake calipers. The synergy ensures your car stays in a stationary position when parked; it also makes the car slow down when it needs to and stops when you apply the brake.
But then, even when choosing brake pads, there is a wide range of brands available on the market. The centric brand dwarfs most of them out there. From excellent stopping power to incredible noise and dust resistance, my best centric brake pad review captures the details about the best guys you can buy.
Table Of Contents
Reviews On 9 Top Best Centric (Ceramic, PQ PRO) Brake Pads
1. Centric Premium Ceramic Brake Pads
What’s more, price is one of the features that confer this product its standout status. Don’t forget, Centric’s Posi Quiet Ceramic Brake pads come a little bit pricey. As a quality alternative, Centric Premium is manufactured for low, medium, and high-end shoppers. You won’t have to break the bank to buy them.
Don’t be deceived by their low price because Premium Ceramic brake Pads from Centric will wow you with their amazing quality. They’re made from the same molding process which births their Posi Quiet counterparts. Plus, the Premium Ceramic from Centric pads come from cutting-edge technology and treated with scorches.
The OE-level stopping power of the Centric Premium Ceramic brake pads provides the pads with the freedom to stand out from the crowd. You won’t have to scramble for a stop each time you press down on the brake pedal.
By users’ estimation, centric premium ceramic brake pads provide amazing traction (OE-level friction formula) on the road. It doesn’t matter whether you want to slow down or stop, the friction is there to help hold your wheels to the surface.
Again, these pads give off minimal noise and dust levels. It doesn’t matter how hard or sudden you press down on the brake pedal, these pads won’t wake a snoring koala. In fact, the Centric Premium Ceramic pads are the ideal brake parts for use at One Square Inch of Silence.
- Made from the incredible molding process
- Reliable OE-level ceramic friction status
- Low noise and dust level
- Resistant to extreme heat
- Provides great stopping power
- Require constant pad bedding
- Not suitable for speedy driving
Overall, great brake bite is what car owners and drivers seek each time they are on the road hoping for safety. You won’t be disappointed if you have this set from Centric installed on your wheel. They make the top list.
2. Posi-Quiet Semi-Metallic Brake Pads
Just as the name suggests, the Posi-Quiet Semi-Metallic Brake Pads are a product of optimized positive molding technology. The positive molding process – usually common in thermoforming and vacuum formation systems – is an exclusive technology used to ensure frictional thickness. It features the use of extreme pressure to wrap the semi-metallic friction material and fold it to the backing plate.
Through the process, the Posi-Quiet Brake pads are formed. What does the process imply in the performance and properties of these pads? The process equips the pads with sturdy and optimized friction-based material that ensures the needed thickness around the pads. This amazing density ensures that the pads deliver optimally and will not wear down faster than normal throughout their life.
That’s not all. These pads’ friction is top-notch, ensuring precision when you step on the brake pedal. The stopping distance is relatively short. Plus, the friction material is well-shaved to fit perfectly into the brake calipers.
It doesn’t matter whether you drive in hot or cold weather; the friction this set of brake pads provides is amazing. The excellent braking experience and great stopping ability are noticeable when you’re driving downhill.
Because the set is an improvement on the common OE-level pads, you won’t feel the usual high levels of noise and vibration that characterized the first generation of the OE-level brake pads produced by Centric. What this implies is that the Posi-Quiet can withstand extreme temperatures and heat for a prolonged time.
- Great brake rotor protectors
- Low levels of vibration and noise
- Excellent resistance to extreme heat and temperatures
- Provide short stop distance
- Working under hot and cold driving conditions
- Produce relative higher level of noise
- Not ideal for hard braking
Guess what? The Posi-Quiet Semi-Metallic brake pads are a great fit for SUVs, CUVs, trucks, and passenger cars. You can’t go wrong installing these guys on your car wheels. Safety is for sure.
3. Centric Posi-Quiet Ceramic Brake Pads – Best Centric Ceramics
Designed from the popular and magnificent positive molding process, the Posi-Quiet Ceramic will serve your need when it comes to great friction. The stopping distance is superb.
Despite making your vehicle to slow down or stop when you need it to, the pads won’t vibrate or make any noise. It is integrated with application-specific shims that ensure the noise is kept at a pretty minimum level throughout your journey. There are also brake plates that reinforce this capacity to produce little or no noise.
Regardless of whether you press on the pedal hard or softly, the pads work perfectly across all surfaces. The braking experience is excellent and you can find any OE-level braking pads that can confidently match the Posi-Quiet Ceramic counterparts.
That’s not all. It doesn’t matter whether you drive under normal or extreme temperature conditions. The pads are known for their stability and friction performance. The heat of the road doesn’t cause the pad to generate heat and cause the rotors to warp.
On the contrary, it’ll resist heat to keep other components of the braking system in sound health.
- Solid friction off and on-road
- Produces low noise and vibration
- Excellent stopping distance
- Application-specific features
- Not great fit when driving in cold condition
- Relatively pricier than its quality
How would you drive your towing and hauling vehicles and machines requiring incredible stop and slowing down without the centric-manufactured Posi-Quiet Ceramic Brake pads?
4. Centric Parts Fleet Performance Brake Pads – Best For Extreme Braking Conditions
Made with aggressive friction material, this set of brake pads will ensure a perfect stopping distance and provide you with the desired traction that your vehicle wheels need. Plus, these Centric pads also abate noise to a pretty minimal level. This is largely due to its heavy-duty and high-application nature.
Because of their sturdy material, strong construction and unique formulation, the Centric Parts Fleet Performance Brake Pads boast exceptional resistance to fade. What it means is that you can use the pads for prolonged periods without bedding or replacement.
What’s more, these pads are made for the most difficult and extreme braking conditions. They deliver optimal friction even if your vehicle’s braking system and components are running at high temperatures. This is due to the pads’ para-amid compound design. This kind of formulation is intended for great heat resistance.
- Resistant to extreme weather and raking
- Designed for extreme driving and braking conditions
- Made from heavy-duty and sturdy materials
- Rest hard on the rotors
- Produce high dust levels
Are you anticipating some emergency travel in the next few days? It’s best to shop for the Centric Parts Fleet Performance Brake Pads and ask your local mechanic to install them for you. No pads do better than these guys when these extreme braking situations arise.
5. Posi-Quiet PRO Disc Brake Pads
Indeed, the Posi-Quiet PRO Disc Brake Pads are a massive improvement on the existing Posi-Quiet models you read about above. The reasons are clear and simple.
Designed to provide modern braking for your vehicle, these pads come with coated rotors and amazing break-in procedures, the Posi-Quiet PRO guys have been referred to as Centric’s Posi “top-of-the-line brake pads.
This set of brake pads features what I can refer to as ‘pads with a double-edge sword.’ They are constructed in semi-metallic and ceramic forms, making them strong and viable enough to do what our dear Centric Ceramic and Centric Posi-Quiet can do without any hassle.
As ceramic-built components, the PO Pro Disc brake pads can conveniently withstand extreme temperatures, provide the amazing stopping power and ensure instant stopping distance.
Plus, the pads also boast excellent ability, low dust buildup, durability, and reliability, among other properties. The ceramic material construction also equips the pads with optimal power to slow your vehicle or bring it to the desired stop.
The molding technology features a Mu500 friction finish that helps the pads reduce break-in time. Additionally, there’s stainless steel and retaining clips that help reinforce the pads’ power to brake your vehicle hassle-free.
- Suitable for SUVs, vans, passenger cars, light trucks
- Low noise and vibration levels
- Give off very little noise
- Exclusive Mu500 finish for excellent performance
- Not perfect for heavy-duty applications
- Pricier than the original PO
With these PRO disc pads from centric, your safety is guaranteed. Installing these pads for street driving isn’t the best decision to make. Proper application is advised.
6. Centric 105.0929 Posi-Quiet Ceramic Brake Pad With Shims – Best For Noise Reduction And Vibrations
They are produced with the use of exclusive molding technology. This technology helps to ensure there is an adequate amount of anti-wear treatment over the surface of the brake pads.
Furthermore, they come with a mechanical attachment of certain application shims. More so, they feature precision-cut backing plates among their technology. These features help to reduce the level of vibration and noise in cars whenever you apply brakes.
In the end, the centric quiet brake pads provide drivers with the best braking experience. They are far better than their OE counterparts. These brake pads are regarded as a premium product. They uniquely offer a highly effective braking bite to bring cars to a stop when you apply brakes.
Moreover, these brake pads are exceptional as they produce a reasonably low vibration. There is also a low noise level. The centric quiet brake pads will fit into passengers’ cars and light-duty trucks.
Besides, they are a great fit for luxury cars and SUVs as well. They sport a unique formulation and modern construction. This helps them to work perfectly in almost all light-duty vehicles.
Again, these pads provide a high level of friction. This helps to prevent dust as well as reduce noise entirely. For street driving enthusiasts driving, these brake pads are all you need. You can bring your car to rest whenever and wherever you want to.
Finally, they are good for towing/hauling vehicles. They slow down vehicles that crave an effective braking system.
The interesting thing is that buyers are cool with the effectiveness of the pads. Whereas, you may have to be on your car’s seat belts before you can apply them.
- Extended lifespan
- Vibrations and noise reduction
- Highly resistant to fading
- Production of little dust
- More than average pad life
- Not fully active when cold
- High cost
Vibrations and noise in brakes can impede a better driving experience. The centric quiet brake pads are all you need to overcome them.
7. Centric 306.09760 Fleet Performance – Best For Extreme Duty And Applications
These are the choice of brake pads for utmost performance. And when there is a demand for serious braking applications, this combo works well.
The centric fleet performance has what it takes to resist temperature. They’ll continue to provide the necessary stop to your vehicle when you most need to. They sport incredible durability that reinforces them to withstand extreme duties and applications.
Being a niche product, they are manufactured for quick and excellent pad bites. It doesn’t matter the obstacles they face. This is why their advertisement center on extreme duties. They are perfect for certain activities, such as rescue operations and emergencies.
It doesn’t matter whether you drive in high temperatures. The centric fleet performance brake pads can withstand any braking conditions. Plus, they are a fit for towing/hauling vehicles. Specifically, these pads are suitable for special applications.
This does not mean that the brakes are compatible with everyday driving. If you drive cars that are not meant for racing, the Centric 306.09760 may not be your choice. As I have mentioned earlier, heavy-duty vehicles may opt for them as well.
The centric PRO Performance brake pads come as a superlative upgrade for ceramic and semi-metallic pads. This makes them highly effective in holding out against extreme applications.
Many users admit that the Centric fleet performance has great stopping power. They are also compatible with a wide range of operating temperatures. Some also said it’s a perfect replacement for original brakes.
- Optimal friction delivery
- Excellent pad life
- Optimal performance
- Resistant to fading
- Low noise level
- Prone to dust production
If you’re a drifting enthusiast or you race from time to time, this pair is the right option of brake pads for you. It has all it takes to stop you whenever there is a need. Even though they aren’t made for extreme braking applications, the pads won’t disappoint on many occasions.
8. Centric Parts 106.13240 106 Series Posi Quiet Semi-Metallic Brake Pad – Best For Casual Or Light Driving
Additionally, users will experience an exceptional braking system when they apply their brakes. This is a cutting-edge advantage. Like ceramic brake pads, these semi-metallic pads are great for braking applications.
The Posi Quiet Semi-metallic pads can withstand both cold and hot temperatures. Thanks to the materials employed for its production. The pads can generate the required friction to stop in every climatic condition.
This implies that they respond quickly even in the worst road and weather conditions.
More so, your cars can comfortably come to rest whenever you wish to. They are best for casual driving. Also, light towing/hauling vehicles can use them. It is not out of point to conclude that these brake pads are a fit for most SUVs, trucks, and passenger cars.
Thinking these brake pads are a premium upgrade isn’t a bad idea. This is because they do not produce excessive noise. Plus, they sport a lower dust production feature. With this, you can be sure that no rust or corrosion finds its way to any part of the brakes.
What’s more, the pads fare better when you compare them to OE-level pads in these aspects. For a regular driving condition, they are formulated in such a way that is above average braking power.
Buyers also commend the quick response this guy brings to the table. It slows down or halts your car at the slightest pressing down on the pedal. More so, drivers admit the pads are a great fit for most SUVs.
They also produce incredible stopping distances for trucks and other casual or light vehicles.
- Reliable level of friction
- Consistency of performance and great stopping power
- Unique rotor and pad life
- Break-in feature
- A misfit for heavy-duty braking applications
- Dust-prone
Never mind the few concerns. The Centric Parts 106.13240 106 brake pad Series are the right combo if you’re given to light driving. After all, not all the time you’ll need to hard brake.
9. Centric 301.08220 Premium Ceramic Pad – Best For Low Price
When compared to PQ PRO Centric ceramics, Centric Premium is about 30% more affordable. Side by side Posi Quiet Ceramics, the Centric 301.08220 is about 20% cheaper.
The low price doesn’t suggest poor performance. On the contrary, the Centric Premium brake pads offer more superior performance than many of the guys out there. Although they may not deliver optimally under extreme driving conditions, Centric premium is reliable.
The pads are a product of the usual suspect method. They are designed using the positive molding process. The scorching treatment and other state-of-the-art edges make the Centric Premium the drivers’ favorites.
In addition, there are other cutting-edge features that the combo boasts. Like the Posi Quiet pads, centric ceramic premium pads are original equipment substitutes. However, they do not exceed the OE level, unlike the Posi Quiet.
The latter offers better and superior performance than the Centric Premium. The pad bite and stopping power are incredible. These and other features make everyone search for these pads.
That’s not all. In terms of price, Centric 301.08220 Premium pads are the right choice. You can save a great of money by investing in this kit. Yet, it doesn’t compromise its qualities. They produce less dust and reduce the noise level.
You will get the needed stopping power plus the short stopping distance. Also, the pads won’t wear out quickly, thanks to their anti-wear treatment.
- Ideal as OE replacement
- Minimal noise and dust levels
- Highly affordable
- Exceptional brake pad bite
- Built with positive molding technology
- Not designed for extreme applications
- Require bed-in
In the end, you should look for value and a good price. These two qualities are part of those features that define the Centric Premium. If you ask whether you should go for this set, I’ll answer in the affirmative.
FAQs
Are Centric brake Pads Good?
Yes. Centric brake pads are excellent and reliable. You’re not likely to count three brake manufacturers ahead of this brand. Generally, centric brake pads are very good, regardless of the brand.
It is a reliable and reputable brand in the brake pads market. Many users opt for them due to the wide range of advantages they offer to the car braking system.
Additionally, they produce these brake pads with top-quality materials which gives the braking system an extended lifespan. The reviews and ratings from users who have tested these products indicate they are a choice to go for.
Thankfully, these pad brands cover all braking needs with different products. The most interesting thing about the brand is the logo. When you come across a centric pad, you can rest assured of originality.
Here are a few things that make the Centric brake products stand out from the crowd:
- Molding Technology: This is the method that the Centric brand uses to manufacture and design its products. What is it about molding technology? With the injection molding process, Centric can produce brake parts. The process involves simply injecting melted material into a mold. Centric brake pads also feature materials that include thermoplastic polymers, metals, and elastomers.
- Stopping Power: What cuts across all the Centric brake pads is their consistent stopping power. Because they come from ceramic formulation, the design provides confidence and safety. The vehicle comes to a halt as soon as you hit your foot on the brake pedal. This is what a perfect pair of brake pads should deliver.
Low Dust Buildup: Centric pads usually don’t produce dust when you press down on the brake pedal. Worst case scenario, they give minimum dust level. - Noise Reduction: my review shows that Centric brake pads keep noise at bay. You’ll not hear any noise when braking. In extreme situations, some of the pads make pretty minimal noise. Overall, the brake pads won’t arouse commuters when you need to press down on the brake pedal.
- Anti-Wear Treatment: Centric holds sway in the automotive industry for its incredible anti-wear products. Because they’re made of ceramic materials, Centric brake pads do not wear out fast.
- Durability: do you drive in extreme conditions? You should go for Centric brake pads. They are designed to hold out against worst-conditions roads and extreme applications. It doesn’t matter whether you hard brake or drive at high speeds. The brake pads will hold their heads high against the elements.
Who Make Centric Brake Pads?
The Centric brake pads are products of centric Parts, a subsidiary of Qualis Automotive. The company is a leading full-line manufacturer and top-of-the-line supplier of premium braking parts and accessories.
They also make auto chassis, clutch, hydraulic, and other components of the car. Qualis produces these products and supplies them to the independent aftermarket.
Before the acquisition of centric, Centric Parts was the producer of centric brake pads. The First Brand Group later acquired it as part of its automotive parts expansion. The First Brand Group is a global auto parts company that produces a wide range of car parts globally.
What Are Centric Fleet Brake Pads?
As the name implies, fleet brake pads are the kinds of brake pads that are designed specifically to deliver incredible stops when you’re in emergencies.
When someone is pursuing you or you’re in pursuit of something or someone, the fleet brake pads are the right kind of brake pads to use. In the moment of rescue, too, these pads come in handy.
Generally, in extreme driving and braking conditions, the fleet brake pads come to the rescue. They help to provide safety to the driver despite working under high temperatures.
It should be noted, however, that Centric is one of the leading brake parts and accessories dealers you can rely on out there. But other brands produce this set of pads.
Which Is Better: Centric Semi-Metallic Or Ceramic Brake Pads?
Truth be told, there are a lot of things my answer will rely on. Each of the brake pads is designed for different purposes. You can make your decision based on the differences in this table. The general comment to make is that both types of brakes are excellent based on the purposes of their construction.
| Centric Ceramic Brake Pads: | Centric Semi-Metallic Brake Pads: |
| Last longer | Relatively shorter lifespan |
| Provide better noise control | Low noise control |
| More protection for rotors. Reduce rotors’ wear | Less protection for rotors (More wear and tear for brake rotor) |
| Suitable for sports car | Excellent for towing, track driving, and performance vehicle |
| Can handle high temperature and heat resistance. | Perfect for a wide range of applications, conditions, and temperatures |
Final Verdict
As you’ve seen, you won’t get any information about the best brake pads outside what I’ve provided in this best centric brake pads review. It’s worth reiterating that the best thing you can do for your vehicle is to equip it with top-quality brake pads.
It doesn’t matter if the brake pads are installed on your vehicle now; by the time you finish reading this review, you won’t hesitate thinking first of centric brake pads.
Finally, regardless of the perfect condition of your brake parts and braking system, you shouldn’t violate the safety rules when driving.
Here’s the rule I’m bringing to your consciousness once again: when you’re in danger or emergency, make sure you press down on the brake pedal instantly.
Doing this will achieve two things for you. First, it’ll leave the wheels unlocked. Secondly, once the wheels are not locked, you will be able to keep your control over the vehicle until it becomes stable.
My name is James. Call me your ‘Born Auto Neighbor.’ I am an auto savvy with a burning enthusiasm to help vehicle owners, auto technicians, DIYer auto caregivers, and drivers like you have a seamless time with your vehicles. Do you own or work on a Dodge Convertible, a Chevy Crossover, a Ford SUV, a Toyota Hatchback, a Honda Coupe, a Datsun MPV, or a Mercedes Sedan? I have enough automotive content to help your auto service and repair on the go.
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