7 Top Centric vs Power Stop Brake Pads: The Ultimate Comparison Guide
When it comes to keeping your ride safe and sound on the road, your brake pads are truly the unsung heroes. They’re the crucial link between your foot on the pedal and your vehicle coming to a smooth, controlled stop. If you’re pondering an upgrade or simply need new pads, you’ve probably heard names like Centric and Power Stop pop up. But when it comes down to Centric vs Power Stop brake pads, which one truly delivers the best bang for your buck and peace of mind?
While Centric is well-regarded for its OE-style replacements and solid, dependable performance for daily drivers, Power Stop has carved out a niche for itself, especially among those looking for an upgrade in stopping power, reduced dust, and quieter operation, particularly for trucks, SUVs, and performance vehicles. In this comprehensive guide, we’re going to dive deep into some of Power Stop’s top offerings, helping you decide if they’re the right choice for your next brake job. Let’s rev those engines and get started!
Understanding Power Stop Brake Pads
Power Stop is all about “Brake Performance for Every Vehicle.” They offer a wide range of brake kits and pads designed to meet various needs, from daily commuting to heavy-duty towing and even track days. Their Z23 Evolution ceramic formula is popular for daily drivers, while their Z36 Truck & Tow and Z26 Street Warrior lines cater to more specialized demands, focusing on superior stopping power, less dust, and noise-free operation. You’ll notice many of their pads feature carbon-fiber ceramic compounds, which is a significant upgrade over standard OE materials.
Our Top 7 Power Stop Brake Pad Picks
Here’s a closer look at some of the best Power Stop brake pads available, each designed with specific vehicle needs in mind.
Power Stop Z23-1057 Ceramic Brake Pads
These Z23 Evolution Sport ceramic brake pads are a fantastic choice for the everyday driver looking for an upgrade over standard stock pads. They offer a noticeable improvement in stopping power without breaking the bank, all while keeping noise and dust to a minimum. It’s like giving your daily commute a little performance boost, ensuring a smoother, quieter, and cleaner ride. If you’re tired of dusty wheels and squealing brakes, these might just be your new best friend.
- Carbon Fiber infused Evolution ceramic formula for superior braking power
- Powder coated backing plate extends life by resisting rust and corrosion
- Premium rubberized shims provide virtually noise-free braking
- Chamfered and slotted like OE pads to ensure noise-free braking
- Bolt-On Ready: No modifications needed to your vehicle
- Includes ceramic brake lubricant and premium hardware kit
Pros:
– Significant upgrade in stopping power compared to OE.
– Greatly reduces brake dust, keeping wheels cleaner.
– Virtually noise-free operation thanks to shims and chamfering.
– Easy, direct bolt-on installation with included hardware.
– Enhanced durability due to corrosion-resistant backing plate.
Cons:
– May require a brief break-in period for optimal performance.
– Not designed for heavy-duty towing or extreme performance applications.
User Impressions:
Many users rave about the impressive reduction in brake dust and the quiet performance of these pads. They appreciate the straightforward installation and the noticeable improvement in braking feel for daily driving. Some mention the initial break-in period, but overall satisfaction is high for their intended use.
Power Stop Z36-976B Z36 Truck & Tow Front Carbon-Fiber Brake Pads
When your truck or SUV needs serious stopping power, especially if you’re hauling heavy loads or tackling challenging terrain, the Z36 Truck & Tow Carbon-Fiber Ceramic brake pads are built for the job. These aren’t just an upgrade; they’re a necessity for vehicles that work hard. Designed to handle increased heat and stress, they ensure your heavy-duty vehicle stops safely and reliably, all while keeping that pesky brake dust at bay and minimizing noise.
- Upgrade from Low dust Ceramic formula to Truck & Tow Carbon-fiber ceramic
- Designed to maximize stopping power and keep those wheels clean
- Thermal scorched pad surface for a fast break-in
- Chamfered slots and premium stainless steel shims for noise-free braking, just like stock
- Upgraded with powder coated backing plate for enhanced braking performance and extended life by resisting rust and corrosion
- Includes brake grease and premium stainless steel hardware kit
Pros:
– Exceptional stopping power for trucks and vehicles with larger wheel/tire combinations.
– Carbon-fiber ceramic formula handles extreme heat and heavy loads effectively.
– Minimizes brake dust, helping keep large wheels cleaner.
– Engineered for quiet operation despite heavy-duty use.
– Durable construction resists rust and corrosion.
Cons:
– May be overkill for light-duty daily driving without towing/hauling.
– Higher price point compared to standard ceramic pads.
User Impressions:
Truck and SUV owners consistently praise the significant boost in stopping power, especially when towing. Many note the low dust output for a heavy-duty pad and the impressive quietness. Users often feel a greater sense of control and safety, making them a popular choice for serious haulers.
Power Stop Front Truck and Tow Brake Pads For 2009-2022 Vehicles (Specific Fitment)
This particular set of Power Stop Z36 Front Truck and Tow brake pads is tailored for a wide range of specific truck models from 2009-2022, ensuring a perfect fit and optimized performance for those popular workhorses. If you drive one of these newer trucks and need to confidently stop heavy loads or manage larger tires, these pads are designed to integrate seamlessly with your vehicle’s braking system, delivering robust performance and reliability.
- Carbon-fiber ceramic brake pad with thermal scorched pad surface for a fast break-in
- Chamfered slots and premium stainless steel shims for noise-free braking, just like stock pads
- Upgraded with powder coated backing plate for enhanced braking performance and extended life by resisting rust and corrosion
- Z36 Carbon-fiber brake pad set includes brake grease and premium stainless steel hardware kit
- Requires cleaning rotor with mild soap and water before installation
Pros:
– Vehicle-specific fitment ensures optimal performance and easy installation.
– Provides superior stopping power for demanding truck applications.
– Low dust and quiet operation, even under heavy load.
– Enhanced durability with corrosion-resistant backing plates.
– Includes all necessary hardware for a complete job.
Cons:
– Specific fitment means you must confirm compatibility carefully.
– As with all Z36 pads, they are designed for heavy-duty use, potentially over-spec for light vehicles.
User Impressions:
Owners of compatible trucks report a night-and-day difference in braking confidence, especially with a loaded bed or trailer. The ease of installation due to the precise fitment is frequently highlighted, alongside appreciation for the quiet performance and reduced brake dust, even after extensive use.
Power Stop Z36-1680 Front Z36 Truck & Tow Carbon-Fiber Brake Pads (Specific Fitment)
For owners of specific Ford F-series Super Duty trucks from 2013-2015, these Power Stop Z36-1680 Front pads are engineered to meet the rigorous demands of these heavy-duty workhorses. Whether you’re towing massive trailers, hauling substantial payloads, or even navigating off-road trails with oversized tires, these pads provide the critical stopping power needed to maintain control and safety, surpassing the limitations of standard factory brakes.
- Z36 Truck and Tow brake pads have superior stopping power demanded by those who tow and haul, as well as the off-road enthusiast
- Recommended for vehicles adding weight by hauling, towing, or adding larger wheel/tire combinations
- Made from premium stainless-steel shims, providing better heat dissipation & virtually noise-free braking
- Includes premium stainless-steel hardware for hassle-free installation
- Fits: Ford F-250 Super Duty Pickup – 2013 – 2015 (2WD And 4WD Models) | Ford F-350 Super Duty Pickup – 2013 – 2014 (2WD And 4WD Models) | Ford F-450 Super Duty Pickup – 2013 – 2014
Pros:
– Specifically designed for high-demand Ford Super Duty applications.
– Exceptional stopping power for heavy towing, hauling, and off-road use.
– Excellent heat dissipation and noise reduction.
– Complete kit with hardware for straightforward installation.
– Crucial upgrade for safety when exceeding stock brake limits.
Cons:
– Highly specific fitment; must confirm vehicle compatibility precisely.
– Not suitable for lighter vehicles or those without specific heavy-duty needs.
User Impressions:
Ford Super Duty owners confirm these pads are a game-changer for their trucks, significantly boosting confidence when pulling heavy loads. The quiet operation and lack of fade under stress are commonly praised, making them a highly recommended upgrade for the target vehicles.
Power Stop Z36-976 Front Truck and Tow Brake Pads For (Specific Fitment)
Similar to other Z36 pads, the Z36-976 Front Truck and Tow pads are engineered for specific trucks and 4x4s, providing extreme braking performance without compromising everyday drivability. This means you get race-level stopping power for your heavy vehicle, but it still feels smooth and controlled during your daily commute. If you’re looking for a low-dust solution that can handle both the workweek and weekend adventures, these pads are a solid contender.
- Z36 Truck & Tow Carbon-Fiber Ceramic brake pads offer extreme braking performance for trucks or 4x4s without sacrificing everyday drivability
- Low dust brake pads designed to maximize stopping power and keep those wheels clean
- Premium stainless steel shims provide better heat dissipation & virtually noise-free braking
- Made with powder coated backing plate, which extends life by resisting rust and corrosion
- Thermal scorched pad surface for a fast break-in
Pros:
– Balances extreme stopping power with good daily driving characteristics.
– Excellent for reducing brake dust on larger vehicles.
– Durable and corrosion-resistant design.
– Quick break-in period for immediate performance.
– Quiet operation thanks to advanced shim technology.
Cons:
– Fitment is specific; always verify before purchase.
– Their strength might feel overly aggressive for drivers who prefer a softer initial bite.
User Impressions:
Reviewers highlight the impressive balance of performance for both heavy-duty tasks and regular driving. The low dust output is a consistent positive, and many users comment on the confident, fade-free braking even after prolonged periods of hard use.
Power Stop Z36-606 Rear Truck and Tow Carbon-Fiber Ceramic Brake Pads (Specific Fitment)
Don’t forget the rear! While front brakes do most of the work, the rear brakes are crucial for stability and overall stopping power, especially in trucks and SUVs that tow or haul. These Z36-606 Rear Truck and Tow pads are specifically designed for a range of Toyota and Lexus SUVs and trucks, ensuring that your entire braking system is up to the challenge of heavy loads or aggressive driving conditions. They complement front Z36 pads perfectly, creating a balanced and robust braking setup.
- Z36 Truck and Tow brake pads have superior stopping power demanded by those who tow and haul, as well as the off-road enthusiast
- Recommended when adding weight to a vehicle by hauling a load, towing a trailer, or simply adding a larger wheel/tire combination
- Made from premium stainless-steel shims, which provide better heat dissipation & virtually noise-free braking
- Includes premium stainless-steel hardware for hassle-free installation
- Fits: 1993-1997 Toyota Land Cruiser; 1996-1997 Lexus LX450; 2001-2002 Toyota Sequoia with Frt. Caliper Casting #13WL and #S13WE; 2003-2007 Toyota Sequoia; 2003-2009 Lexus GX470; 2003-2009 Toyota 4Runner Models with 319mm Front Rotors and 338mm Front Rotors; 2010-2021 Toyota 4Runner; 2007-2014 Toyota FJ Cruiser; 2010-2021 Lexus GX460
Pros:
– Optimized for specific Toyota/Lexus SUV and truck rear axles.
– Enhances overall braking balance and stopping power.
– Excellent heat dissipation and noise reduction for rear applications.
– Includes hardware for a complete, hassle-free installation.
– Crucial for maintaining safety and control with heavy loads.
Cons:
– Very specific fitment, requiring careful verification.
– Performance benefits are most noticeable when paired with compatible front pads.
User Impressions:
Owners of the specified Toyota/Lexus models report a noticeable improvement in overall braking feel and reduced nose dive, especially when combined with Z36 front pads. The quiet operation and durability are frequently praised, making these a solid choice for a comprehensive brake upgrade.
Power Stop Z36-1274 Rear Truck & Tow Carbon-Fiber Ceramic Brake Pads (Specific Fitment)
Another excellent option for specific rear axle applications, the Z36-1274 Rear Truck & Tow pads bring the renowned Power Stop Z36 performance to your vehicle’s often-overlooked rear brakes. Just like their front counterparts, these pads are designed for drivers who demand the very best in stopping power, especially when their vehicles are put to the test. If your rear brakes feel like they’re lagging behind, these pads are a robust solution to bring them up to par, ensuring balanced and reliable stopping performance.
- Z36 Truck and Tow brake pads have superior stopping power demanded by those who tow and haul, as well as the off-road enthusiast
- Recommended when adding weight to a vehicle by hauling a load, towing a trailer, or simply adding a larger wheel/tire combination
- Made from premium stainless-steel shims, which provide better heat dissipation & virtually noise-free braking
- Includes premium stainless-steel hardware for hassle-free installation
- Please Confirm Fitment with the Confirmed Fitment Tool Above Before Placing Order
Pros:
– Delivers significant stopping power improvement for rear brakes.
– Ideal for balancing braking performance in towing/hauling scenarios.
– Reduces noise and effectively dissipates heat.
– Comes with all necessary hardware for a smooth installation.
– Enhances overall vehicle control and safety.
Cons:
– Fitment is highly specific; double-check compatibility carefully.
– Best results achieved when paired with matching Z36 front pads.
User Impressions:
Customers highlight the positive impact on overall braking dynamics, noting a more balanced feel and improved stopping distances when these pads are installed on the rear. The low noise and durability for a heavy-duty application are consistently mentioned as key benefits.
Centric vs Power Stop Brake Pads: The Verdict
When weighing Centric vs Power Stop brake pads, the choice often boils down to your specific needs. If you’re looking for reliable, high-quality OE-style replacement parts that perform well for daily driving and standard applications, Centric offers excellent options that many mechanics trust. They’re a solid, dependable choice that often meet or exceed original equipment specifications.
However, if you’re driving a truck, SUV, or a performance vehicle, or if you frequently tow, haul, or venture off-road, Power Stop really steps up to the plate. As you can see from our reviews, their Z23 and Z36 lines are engineered to provide significantly enhanced stopping power, reduced brake dust, and quieter operation compared to many stock or even standard aftermarket options. They’re designed for drivers who demand more from their brakes and are willing to invest in superior performance and durability. So, if you’re seeking an upgrade that can handle the extra demands you place on your vehicle, Power Stop pads are definitely worth considering for their specialized formulas and robust construction.
Ultimately, both brands offer quality products, but Power Stop’s focus on performance upgrades makes it a standout for those looking to push beyond standard capabilities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What’s the main difference between Centric and Power Stop brake pads?
A: Centric often focuses on providing high-quality, OE-equivalent replacement parts for everyday driving. Power Stop, on the other hand, specializes in performance upgrades, offering enhanced stopping power, reduced dust, and quieter operation, particularly for heavier vehicles, towing, or spirited driving.
Q: Are Power Stop brake pads good for towing?
A: Absolutely! Many Power Stop lines, especially their Z36 Truck & Tow series, are specifically engineered with carbon-fiber ceramic formulas to handle the extreme heat and stress associated with towing and hauling heavy loads, providing superior stopping power and fade resistance.
Q: Do Power Stop brake pads produce a lot of dust?
A: No, in fact, Power Stop brake pads, particularly their ceramic and carbon-fiber ceramic formulations, are designed to produce significantly less dust than traditional semi-metallic pads. This helps keep your wheels cleaner for longer.
Q: How long do Power Stop brake pads typically last?
A: The lifespan of brake pads varies widely depending on driving habits, vehicle type, and conditions. However, Power Stop pads are known for their durability, often featuring powder-coated backing plates and robust materials that resist corrosion and wear, contributing to a longer lifespan compared to many standard pads.
Q: Do I need to replace my rotors when I replace brake pads?
A: It’s highly recommended. While not always strictly necessary, pairing new brake pads with new or freshly machined rotors ensures optimal braking performance, helps prevent noise, and allows the pads to bed in properly, extending their life.
Q: What are the signs that I need new brake pads?
A: Common signs include squealing or grinding noises when braking, a vibrating brake pedal, your car pulling to one side when braking, or the brake warning light coming on. Visually inspecting your pads for wear (less than 1/4 inch thickness) is also crucial.
Q: What’s the benefit of carbon-fiber ceramic brake pads?
A: Carbon-fiber ceramic brake pads offer a blend of the best qualities from both materials: the low dust and quiet operation of ceramic, combined with the extreme heat resistance and superior stopping power of carbon fibers, making them ideal for high-performance and heavy-duty applications.
