7 Top Power Stop Brake Pads Reviews for Your Ride
Looking to upgrade your vehicle’s stopping power? You’ve come to the right place! When it comes to reliable and high-performance brake pads, Power Stop is a name that consistently stands out. And if you’re shopping for quality parts, chances are you’ve browsed the vast inventory at Rock Auto. That’s why we’re diving deep into a thorough rock auto power stop brake pads review to help you make an informed decision.
Whether you’re hauling heavy loads, cruising the highway, or just navigating your daily commute, having dependable brakes is non-negotiable for vehicle safety. Power Stop offers a fantastic range of brake pads, from their Z17 Evolution Ceramic for everyday drivers to the robust Z36 Truck & Tow Carbon-Fiber Ceramic for demanding applications. We’ve hand-picked seven top-rated Power Stop brake pads to give you the lowdown on their features, benefits, and what users are saying. Let’s get those wheels stopping right!
1. Power Stop Z36-2174 Z36 Truck & Tow Rear Carbon-Fiber Ceramic Brake Pads
When your truck or SUV needs serious stopping power, especially when you’re towing a trailer or hauling a heavy load, these Z36 Truck & Tow rear brake pads are designed to step up to the plate. They represent a significant upgrade from standard low-dust ceramic options, specifically engineered to maximize braking performance while keeping your wheels cleaner. If you’re frequently putting your vehicle through its paces, these pads are a game-changer for control and confidence.
-
Key Features:
- Upgrade to Truck & Tow Carbon-Fiber Ceramic formula for maximum stopping power.
- Thermal scorched pad surface for a fast, efficient break-in.
- Chamfered and slotted design with premium stainless steel shims for noise-free braking.
- Upgraded powder-coated backing plate resists rust and corrosion, extending pad life.
- Includes brake grease and premium stainless steel hardware kit for complete installation.
-
Pros:
- Exceptional stopping power for heavy-duty applications.
- Significantly reduces brake dust compared to OE pads.
- Engineered for quiet operation.
- Enhanced durability and corrosion resistance.
- Complete kit makes installation straightforward.
-
Cons:
- Might be overkill for lighter daily driving needs without towing.
- Potentially higher cost than basic ceramic pads.
-
User Impressions: Drivers consistently rave about the noticeable improvement in braking performance, especially under load. Many report less fade and a much more confident pedal feel, making them a popular choice for truck and SUV owners who prioritize safety and performance.
2. Power Stop Z23-1057 Carbon Fiber Infused Ceramic Brake Pads
For the everyday driver seeking a solid upgrade over their factory brake pads, the Power Stop Z23 Evolution Sport line offers an excellent balance of performance, cleanliness, and quiet operation. These carbon fiber infused ceramic brake pads deliver superior stopping power without the harshness or excessive dust often associated with performance pads. They’re designed to be a direct bolt-on replacement, making your brake job a breeze.
-
Key Features:
- Carbon Fiber infused Evolution ceramic formula for superior stopping power.
- Powder-coated backing plate enhances durability by resisting rust and corrosion.
- Premium rubberized shims provide virtually noise-free braking.
- Chamfered and slotted like OE pads to ensure quiet performance.
- Bolt-On Ready: No modifications needed, includes ceramic brake lubricant and premium hardware kit.
-
Pros:
- Improved braking feel and response for daily driving.
- Produces very little brake dust, keeping wheels cleaner.
- Extremely quiet operation, rivaling factory pads.
- Durable construction for extended pad life.
- Easy, complete installation package.
-
Cons:
- Not designed for heavy towing or aggressive track use.
- Performance gains may not be as dramatic as the Z36 line for very heavy vehicles.
-
User Impressions: These pads are a hit with commuters and enthusiasts alike. Users frequently praise their quiet nature and minimal dust output, alongside a noticeable improvement in overall braking efficiency compared to stock. They’re often described as a “set it and forget it” upgrade.
3. Power Stop Z36-976B Z36 Truck & Tow Front Carbon-Fiber Ceramic Brake Pads
Just like its rear counterpart, the Z36-976B brings the same heavy-duty performance to the front axle of your truck, SUV, or even a muscle car. The front brakes typically do most of the stopping, so upgrading them with this carbon-fiber ceramic formula ensures maximum stopping power exactly where you need it most. This pad set is all about boosting confidence and control when dealing with demanding driving conditions, from towing and hauling to spirited driving.
-
Key Features:
- Upgrade from Low Dust Ceramic formula to Truck & Tow Carbon-Fiber Ceramic.
- Designed to maximize stopping power and keep wheels clean.
- Thermal scorched pad surface for fast break-in, chamfered slots for noise-free braking.
- Premium stainless steel shims ensure quiet operation, just like OE.
- Upgraded powder-coated backing plate significantly enhances braking performance and extends life.
- Includes brake grease and premium stainless steel hardware kit.
-
Pros:
- Excellent stopping power for heavy vehicles and loads.
- Minimizes brake dust, keeping front wheels cleaner.
- Engineered for silent operation.
- Superior resistance to rust and corrosion.
- Comes with all necessary installation components.
-
Cons:
- May be overkill for small cars or light daily driving.
- Higher cost point due to specialized formula and performance.
-
User Impressions: Owners of trucks and performance vehicles frequently report a dramatic improvement in initial bite and fade resistance, particularly during long descents or heavy braking events. The reduction in brake dust is also a commonly appreciated benefit.
4. Power Stop Z36-2169 Z36 Truck & Tow Rear Carbon-Fiber Ceramic Brake Pads
This particular Z36 Truck & Tow rear brake pad set offers the same robust carbon-fiber ceramic performance with the added benefit of being vehicle-specific. This means you can be assured of a perfect fit and optimized performance for your particular make and model, ensuring that all the engineering benefits translate directly to your ride. It’s ideal for those who demand uncompromising performance and reliability from their braking system for towing, hauling, or even just heavy-duty daily use.
-
Key Features:
- Upgrade from Low Dust Ceramic to Truck & Tow Carbon-Fiber Ceramic.
- Designed for maximum stopping power and clean wheels.
- Thermal scorched pad surface for quick break-in and chamfered slots for noise-free braking.
- Chamfered and slotted pads with premium stainless steel shims for quiet performance.
- Upgraded powder-coated backing plate for enhanced durability and performance.
- Includes brake grease and premium stainless steel hardware kit.
- Fit Type: Vehicle Specific, ensuring perfect compatibility.
-
Pros:
- Superior, reliable stopping power for trucks and SUVs.
- Excellent dust control keeps wheels looking good.
- Quiet operation thanks to advanced design.
- Enhanced longevity and corrosion resistance.
- Vehicle-specific fit guarantees optimal performance and easier installation.
-
Cons:
- Not intended for standard passenger cars.
- Performance benefits might not be fully utilized on vehicles that don’t tow or haul.
-
User Impressions: Users value the peace of mind that comes with a vehicle-specific fit. They echo the positive feedback for other Z36 pads, praising the significant increase in stopping confidence and reduced dust compared to OEM or other aftermarket options.
5. Power Stop Front Z36-2382 Carbon-Fiber Ceramic Brake Pads
For the truck, SUV, or off-road enthusiast who pushes their vehicle to the limits, the Z36-2382 front brake pads are specifically engineered to handle the demands of hauling, towing, and even larger wheel/tire combinations. Adding weight to a vehicle or increasing wheel diameter places extra stress on your braking system, and these pads are built to prevent exceeding the limits of your stock brakes. Their focus on superior heat dissipation ensures consistent performance when it matters most.
-
Key Features:
- Z36 Truck and Tow brake pads offer superior stopping power for towing, hauling, and off-roading.
- Recommended for vehicles with added weight (load, trailer, larger wheels/tires).
- Made from premium stainless-steel shims for better heat dissipation and virtually noise-free braking.
- Includes premium stainless-steel hardware for hassle-free installation.
- Comes with Z36 brake pads and all necessary installation hardware.
-
Pros:
- Handles extreme braking demands, ideal for heavy vehicles.
- Excellent fade resistance during prolonged braking or heavy loads.
- Superior heat management helps maintain consistent performance.
- Noise-free operation.
- Comprehensive kit for straightforward installation.
-
Cons:
- Overkill for light vehicles or those not used for heavy-duty tasks.
- May be a firmer pedal feel than softer, daily-driver pads.
-
User Impressions: This Z36 variant is highly regarded by those with lifted trucks or large off-road tires, who report a dramatic improvement in safety and control. The enhanced heat dissipation is a frequently cited benefit, preventing brake fade on long descents.
6. Power Stop 17-1423, Z17 Rear Ceramic Brake Pads with Hardware
If you’re looking for a direct OEM replacement that simply performs better than stock, the Power Stop Z17 Evolution Plus Ceramic brake pads are an excellent choice. These rear pads are designed with a low-dust ceramic formula to keep your wheels looking sharp, while still providing reliable, quiet stopping power for your everyday commute. They offer a perfect balance of affordability, performance, and cleanliness without unnecessary frills.
-
Key Features:
- Low dust formula ceramic brake pads designed to keep wheels clean.
- Thermal scorched Z17 Ceramic brake pad surfaces for a fast break-in.
- Chamfered and slotted like OE pads to ensure noise-free braking.
- Designed for shorter break-in and better-than-OE performance.
- Includes premium hardware kit for easy installation.
-
Pros:
- Significant reduction in brake dust compared to many stock pads.
- Quiet operation for a comfortable driving experience.
- Fast break-in time means less waiting to hit the road.
- Improved stopping power over standard OEM pads.
- Affordable and easy to install with included hardware.
-
Cons:
- Not intended for heavy-duty towing or high-performance track use.
- Less aggressive bite than carbon-fiber ceramic options.
-
User Impressions: These pads are a go-to for daily drivers who want a reliable, quiet, and clean brake upgrade. Many users report that they’re a noticeable step up from their original equipment, particularly in terms of dust reduction and noise elimination.
7. Power Stop 17-1761, Z17 Rear Ceramic Brake Pads with Hardware
Similar to the 17-1423, the Power Stop 17-1761 Z17 Evolution Plus Ceramic brake pads offer the same great low-dust, quiet performance specifically tailored with a vehicle-specific fit. This ensures optimal contact and consistent braking performance for your particular vehicle’s rear axle. It’s an ideal choice for those who want a solid, dependable OE-style replacement that performs better and keeps their wheels cleaner without breaking the bank or sacrificing comfort.
-
Key Features:
- Low dust formula ceramic brake pads designed to keep those wheels clean.
- Thermal scorched Z17 Ceramic pad surfaces for a fast break-in.
- Chamfered and slotted like OE pads to ensure noise-free braking.
- Designed for shorter break-in, offering better than OE performance.
- Includes premium hardware kit for easy installation.
- Fit type: Vehicle Specific, guaranteeing precise fitment.
-
Pros:
- Excellent for reducing brake dust on daily driven vehicles.
- Provides quiet, consistent stopping power.
- Quick and easy break-in procedure.
- Reliable and durable for everyday use.
- Vehicle-specific design ensures perfect fitment and performance.
-
Cons:
- Not suitable for extreme driving conditions or heavy loads.
- Performance is focused on daily driving, not high-speed track use.
-
User Impressions: Customers love the precise fit of these vehicle-specific Z17 pads, confirming their quiet nature and significant reduction in brake dust. They are often chosen for their “just like factory, but better” feel, making them a popular choice for routine maintenance and subtle upgrades.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q1: Are Power Stop brake pads good quality?
A1: Absolutely! Power Stop is a highly respected brand in the aftermarket braking industry. They’re known for engineering high-quality brake pads and kits that often outperform original equipment (OE) parts in terms of stopping power, noise reduction, and dust control. Many users find them to be an excellent value for the performance they provide.
Q2: What’s the difference between Power Stop Z17, Z23, and Z36 brake pads?
A2:
* Z17 Evolution Plus Ceramic: Designed for daily drivers, focusing on low dust, quiet operation, and reliable OE-level or better stopping power. Great for standard vehicles.
* Z23 Evolution Sport Carbon-Fiber Ceramic: An upgrade for daily drivers and performance enthusiasts. Offers superior stopping power, less dust, and more fade resistance than Z17, ideal for street performance and light towing.
* Z36 Truck & Tow Carbon-Fiber Ceramic: Engineered for heavy-duty applications like trucks, SUVs, and muscle cars that tow, haul, or have larger wheels/tires. Provides maximum stopping power, excellent fade resistance, and handles extreme heat.
Q3: How long do Power Stop brake pads typically last?
A3: The lifespan of Power Stop brake pads varies greatly depending on driving habits, vehicle type, and the specific pad series. Generally, Power Stop pads are designed for durability and often last as long as or longer than OEM pads. The Z36 series, with its robust construction, is built to withstand more demanding conditions and potentially offer extended life in those scenarios.
Q4: Do Power Stop brake pads come with hardware?
A4: Yes, most Power Stop brake pad sets, particularly those in the Z17, Z23, and Z36 lines, come with premium stainless steel hardware kits. This is a big plus as it ensures you have all the necessary components for a complete and proper installation, often including brake grease.
Q5: Will Power Stop brake pads reduce brake dust on my wheels?
A5: Yes, a primary benefit of Power Stop’s ceramic and carbon-fiber ceramic formulations is significantly reduced brake dust compared to traditional semi-metallic pads. While no pad is entirely dust-free, Power Stop pads are highly effective at minimizing dust, helping to keep your wheels cleaner for longer.
Q6: What is the break-in procedure for Power Stop brake pads?
A6: Power Stop recommends a specific break-in (or “bed-in”) procedure to ensure optimal performance and longevity. Generally, it involves a series of moderate stops from varying speeds (e.g., 5-6 stops from 40 mph down to 10 mph, then 2-3 hard stops from 35 mph down to 5 mph), allowing the brakes to cool completely between sets. This process properly transfers a layer of pad material to the rotors, optimizing friction and reducing noise. Consult the instructions included with your specific pads for precise details.
Q7: Can I just replace my brake pads or do I need new rotors too?
A7: While you can sometimes just replace pads if your rotors are in excellent condition (smooth, no deep grooves, within thickness specifications), it’s highly recommended to at least resurface (turn) your existing rotors, or ideally, replace them with new ones. Mating new pads with new or freshly resurfaced rotors ensures proper contact, maximizes braking performance, and prevents noise and premature wear. Power Stop often sells complete brake kits that include pads and rotors for a comprehensive upgrade.
