7 Top Power Stop Brake Pads: Separating Fact from Fiction – Do Power Stop 17-908 Brake Pads Have Asbestos in Them?
When it comes to upgrading your vehicle’s braking system, Power Stop is a name that often pops up. They’re well-known for offering quality brake components designed to deliver improved performance and reliability. However, a common question that we often hear is, “Do Power Stop 17-908 brake pads do have asbestos in them?” It’s a valid concern, especially given the history of asbestos in automotive parts. Let’s clear the air right away: Power Stop’s Z17 Evolution Ceramic Brake Pads, including the 17-908 model, are formulated with ceramic materials and are explicitly designed to be 100% asbestos-free. Modern brake pad manufacturing has moved away from asbestos due to health concerns, focusing instead on safer, high-performance materials like ceramics.
In this comprehensive guide, we’re going to dive deep into seven excellent Power Stop Z17 ceramic brake pad options. We’ll explore their features, what makes them tick, and why they might be the perfect fit for your ride. So, if you’re looking for fantastic stopping power without the worry, stick around!
Why Choose Power Stop Z17 Ceramic Brake Pads?
Power Stop’s Z17 Evolution Ceramic Brake Pads are a popular choice for daily drivers who want better-than-OE performance without breaking the bank. They’re engineered for quiet operation, reduced dust, and a smooth, consistent pedal feel. Forget about that annoying brake dust coating your shiny wheels; these pads are formulated to keep things cleaner. Plus, their thermal scorched surfaces mean you get a quick, hassle-free break-in period, getting you back on the road safely in no time.
Let’s check out some of the top picks from the Power Stop Z17 lineup.
1. Power Stop 17-008, Z17 Front Ceramic Brake Pads
The Power Stop 17-008 Z17 Front Ceramic Brake Pads are a fantastic starting point if you’re looking to upgrade your vehicle’s front braking performance. These pads are a true testament to modern brake technology, offering a clean, quiet, and efficient braking experience. They’re designed with a low-dust ceramic formula, which means your wheels stay cleaner for longer – a small but significant detail for any car enthusiast. You’ll appreciate the instant responsiveness right out of the box thanks to their thermal scorched surfaces, ensuring a quick and effective break-in period.
- Low dust formula ceramic brake pads designed to keep those wheels clean
- The Z17 Ceramic brake pad surfaces are thermal scorched for a fast break-in
- Chamfered and slotted like OE pad to ensure noise-free braking
- Designed for shorter break-in, better than OE
- Include premium hardware kit for easy installation
Pros:
– Significantly reduces brake dust, keeping wheels cleaner
– Quick and easy break-in process
– Engineered for quiet operation
– Comes with all necessary installation hardware
Cons:
– May not be suited for heavy-duty towing or track use
– Specific vehicle fitment required
User Impressions: Many users praise the 17-008 for its noticeable reduction in brake dust and quiet operation. Installation is often noted as straightforward, and the improved pedal feel is a common positive feedback point. Drivers feel confident in their daily commutes with these pads.
2. Power Stop 17-815, Z17 Front Ceramic Brake Pads
Next up, the Power Stop 17-815 Z17 Front Ceramic Brake Pads build on the solid foundation of the Z17 line, offering tailored performance for specific vehicles. This model is engineered to provide an exact fit, ensuring optimal contact and efficient heat dissipation, which translates into consistent, reliable stopping power. Just like its siblings, the 17-815 features the signature low-dust ceramic formula and thermal scorching, making it an excellent choice for those who value clean wheels and a quick, hassle-free installation process. It’s a direct replacement that feels like a significant upgrade.
- Low dust formula ceramic brake pads designed to keep those wheels clean
- The Z17 Ceramic brake pad surfaces are thermal scorched for a fast break-in
- Chamfered and slotted like OE pad to ensure noise-free braking
- Designed for shorter break-in, better than OE
- Include premium hardware kit for easy installation
- Fit type: Vehicle Specific
Pros:
– Vehicle-specific fit ensures perfect alignment and performance
– Exceptional dust reduction for cleaner wheels
– Pre-scorched for immediate strong braking
– Quiet and smooth operation
Cons:
– Only fits specific vehicle models (check compatibility)
– Not designed for extreme performance driving
User Impressions: Customers often highlight the perfect fit and the noticeable improvement in braking feel. The quietness of these pads is a frequently mentioned benefit, along with how much cleaner their wheels stay compared to previous pads.
3. Power Stop 17-908, Z17 Front Ceramic Brake Pads
Now, let’s specifically address the Power Stop 17-908 Z17 Front Ceramic Brake Pads, which are at the heart of our discussion today regarding the question: do power stop 17-908 brake pads do have asbestos in them? As we clarified earlier, these pads, like all Z17 ceramic formulations, are completely asbestos-free, offering a safer and cleaner alternative to older brake pad technologies. The 17-908 continues Power Stop’s commitment to quality with its low-dust ceramic material, ensuring your wheels remain pristine. Its thermal scorched surfaces guarantee a quick bedding-in process, providing optimal braking performance almost immediately. For daily driving, you’ll find these pads a reliable choice that improves upon original equipment.
- Low dust formula ceramic brake pads designed to keep those wheels clean
- The Z17 Ceramic brake pad surfaces are thermal scorched for a fast break-in
- Chamfered and slotted like OE pad to ensure noise-free braking
- Designed for shorter break-in, better than OE
- Include premium hardware kit for easy installation
- Fit type: Vehicle Specific
Pros:
– Asbestos-free and safe composition
– Excellent noise control due to OE-style chamfers and slots
– Promotes cleaner wheels with minimal dust
– Durable and designed for extended pad life
Cons:
– Specific fitment means you need to verify compatibility carefully
– Performance is focused on street driving, not racing
User Impressions: Users consistently praise the 17-908 for its quiet operation and lack of aggressive brake dust. Many appreciate the straightforward installation and the immediate improvement in braking response after the initial break-in. It’s often described as a solid, dependable upgrade for everyday vehicles.
4. Power Stop 17-1609, Z17 Front Ceramic Brake Pads
The Power Stop 17-1609 Z17 Front Ceramic Brake Pads exemplify the Z17 line’s core strengths, delivering reliable and quiet braking performance. This particular model, like others in the series, is engineered with a focus on longevity and minimal maintenance. The ceramic compound is not just about keeping dust off your wheels; it’s also about providing consistent friction across a wide range of temperatures, ensuring predictable stopping power whether you’re in stop-and-go traffic or cruising on the highway. With the included premium hardware, you’re set for a complete, hassle-free brake service.
- Low dust formula ceramic brake pads designed to keep those wheels clean
- The Z17 Ceramic brake pad surfaces are thermal scorched for a fast break-in
- Chamfered and slotted like OE pad to ensure noise-free braking
- Designed for shorter break-in, better than OE
- Include premium hardware kit for easy installation
- Fit type: Vehicle Specific
Pros:
– Excellent all-around performance for daily driving
– Virtually silent operation
– Superior heat resistance for consistent braking
– Complete kit with quality hardware
Cons:
– Specific vehicle application limits universal use
– May not offer significant performance gains over OE for very light vehicles
User Impressions: Users report a noticeable difference in brake pedal feel and quietness. Many highlight the ease of installation, crediting the included hardware. The reduction in brake dust is also a frequently celebrated feature, making wheel cleaning less of a chore.
5. Power Stop Front 17-1211 Ceramic Brake Pads Z17 Evolution
For those seeking a straightforward and effective brake upgrade, the Power Stop Front 17-1211 Ceramic Brake Pads Z17 Evolution are a strong contender. What sets this particular model apart, beyond the standard Z17 benefits like low dust and quiet operation, is the emphasis on ensuring precise fitment through Amazon’s Confirmed Fit tool. This helps prevent frustrating returns and ensures you get the right pads for your vehicle the first time. It’s a small detail, but it speaks volumes about Power Stop’s commitment to user convenience, alongside their dedication to superior braking performance.
- Low dust formula ceramic brake pads designed to keep those wheels clean
- The Z17 Ceramic brake pad surfaces are thermal scorched for a fast break-in
- Chamfered and slotted like OE pad to ensure noise-free braking
- Designed for shorter break-in, better than OE
- If the “Amazon Confirmed Fit” appears at the top of this page, please check the “Amazon Confirmed Fit” bar before buying this product to ensure this product works for your vehicle. If the “Amazon Confirmed Fit” bar has an “i” in a blue circle, this product has additional notes. Please hover over the “i” on the bar to see notes before making your purchase.
Pros:
– Enhanced fitment guidance reduces installation headaches
– Exceptional low-dust properties for cleaner wheels
– Provides immediate and consistent stopping power
– Quiet and smooth operation
Cons:
– No hardware kit explicitly listed (verify if included for your purchase)
– Still a street-performance pad, not for track use
User Impressions: Customers frequently mention the peace of mind offered by the “Amazon Confirmed Fit” feature. The pads themselves live up to the Z17 reputation for being quiet and low-dust, making them a popular choice for daily drivers who value convenience and performance.
6. Power Stop 17-1324, Z17 Front Ceramic Brake Pads
The Power Stop 17-1324 Z17 Front Ceramic Brake Pads are another stellar option within the Power Stop lineup, crafted to deliver a premium braking experience without the premium price tag. These pads are a perfect example of how modern engineering can achieve superior performance while adhering to strict environmental and health standards (meaning no asbestos, of course!). Their design specifically mimics OE specifications for chamfering and slotting, which is crucial for reducing noise and vibration, giving you a remarkably smooth and silent stop every time. You can count on these for consistent, reliable braking day in and day out.
- Low dust formula ceramic brake pads designed to keep those wheels clean
- The Z17 Ceramic brake pad surfaces are thermal scorched for a fast break-in
- Chamfered and slotted like OE pad to ensure noise-free braking
- Designed for shorter break-in, better than OE
- Include premium hardware kit for easy installation
- Fit type: Vehicle Specific
Pros:
– Excellent noise suppression for a quiet ride
– Durable ceramic compound extends pad life
– Fast break-in allows for quick installation and use
– Full hardware kit simplifies the replacement process
Cons:
– Compatibility must be verified for exact vehicle fit
– Focuses on daily driving, not extreme conditions
User Impressions: Many reviews emphasize the lack of noise after installation and the consistent braking performance. Customers appreciate the complete hardware kit, which makes DIY installation much easier. The low dust output is also a frequently highlighted positive.
7. Power Stop 17-1391, Z17 Rear Ceramic Brake Pads
Rounding out our list, the Power Stop 17-1391 Z17 Rear Ceramic Brake Pads ensure that your vehicle’s entire braking system is balanced and performing optimally. While front pads do most of the stopping work, rear pads are essential for stability and overall braking efficiency, especially under heavy loads or during hard braking. These rear pads offer the same great benefits as their front counterparts: a low-dust ceramic formula to keep those rear wheels gleaming, thermal scorching for a fast break-in, and OE-style chamfers and slots for quiet operation. Don’t neglect your rear brakes; upgrading them with the 17-1391 can make a noticeable difference in your vehicle’s stopping characteristics.
- Low dust formula ceramic brake pads designed to keep those wheels clean
- The Z17 Ceramic brake pad surfaces are thermal scorched for a fast break-in
- Chamfered and slotted like OE pad to ensure noise-free braking
- Designed for shorter break-in, better than OE
- Include premium hardware kit for easy installation
- Fit type: Vehicle Specific
Pros:
– Completes a balanced braking system upgrade
– Reduces dust on rear wheels
– Ensures quiet and smooth rear braking
– Comes with all necessary hardware for installation
Cons:
– Rear-specific application only
– May require a full front and rear upgrade for optimal benefits
User Impressions: Customers installing these rear pads alongside Power Stop fronts often report a balanced and confidence-inspiring braking feel. The reduction in rear wheel dust is particularly appreciated, as is the quiet operation. Many find them to be a significant improvement over stock rear pads.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Do Power Stop 17-908 brake pads do have asbestos in them?
A: No, absolutely not. Power Stop’s Z17 Evolution Ceramic Brake Pads, including the 17-908 model, are formulated with high-quality ceramic materials and are 100% asbestos-free. Modern brake pads, especially from reputable brands like Power Stop, do not use asbestos due to safety and health regulations.
Q2: What are the main benefits of ceramic brake pads?
A: Ceramic brake pads offer several advantages, including significantly lower dust production, quieter operation compared to semi-metallic pads, longer pad life, and consistent braking performance across various temperatures. They are also generally less abrasive on brake rotors.
Q3: How do I know if these Power Stop brake pads will fit my vehicle?
A: It’s crucial to check the “Fit type: Vehicle Specific” detail for each product. The best way to ensure compatibility is to use the “Amazon Confirmed Fit” tool at the top of the product page, where you can enter your vehicle’s year, make, and model.
Q4: Do Power Stop Z17 brake pads require a break-in period?
A: While Power Stop Z17 pads are thermal scorched for a fast break-in, a proper bedding-in procedure is always recommended for optimal performance and longevity. This typically involves several moderate stops from medium speed, followed by a few harder stops from higher speed, allowing the pads and rotors to transfer material to each other.
Q5: Are Power Stop Z17 brake pads good for performance driving or racing?
A: Power Stop Z17 Evolution Ceramic Brake Pads are primarily designed for daily driving and offer “better-than-OE” performance. While they provide excellent stopping power for street use, they are not intended for aggressive track use or extreme performance driving. For those applications, Power Stop offers different series like the Z23 Evolution Sport or Z26 Street Warrior.
Q6: Do these brake pads come with installation hardware?
A: Most Power Stop Z17 brake pads, as listed in our reviews, include a premium hardware kit for easy installation. Always double-check the specific product description before purchasing, as availability can vary.
Q7: How often should I replace my brake pads?
A: The lifespan of brake pads varies widely depending on driving habits, vehicle type, and the quality of the pads. Generally, it’s recommended to have your brakes inspected every 10,000-15,000 miles or at every oil change. You should replace pads when they wear down to a certain thickness (typically 3-4mm), or if you notice signs like squealing, grinding, or a spongy brake pedal.
