Looking for Power Stop S4652 Brake Pads? Check Out These 5 Top Power Stop Upgrades!
When it comes to upgrading your vehicle’s braking system, Power Stop is a name that consistently comes up. Known for their commitment to performance and durability, they offer a wide range of brake pads and kits designed for various driving needs, from daily commutes to serious towing and off-roading.
You might be here specifically looking for Power Stop S4652 brake pads. While the S4652 typically refers to a specific Power Stop Autospecialty OE Replacement brake pad set, perfect for bringing your vehicle back to factory performance, Power Stop also offers more advanced series. If you’re seeking enhanced stopping power, reduced dust, or quieter operation beyond stock specifications, you’re in the right place!
In this article, we’ll dive into 5 of Power Stop’s most popular and high-performance brake pad offerings. These aren’t necessarily the S4652 directly, but they represent Power Stop’s commitment to quality and innovation, offering significant upgrades for many vehicles. Whether you’re upgrading from an OE replacement like the Power Stop S4652 brake pads or just looking for the best performance, these options are worth considering. Let’s get those wheels stopping!
1. Power Stop Z23-1057 Ceramic Brake Pads
The Power Stop Z23 Evolution Sport Carbon-Fiber Ceramic Brake Pads are a fantastic upgrade for daily drivers looking for improved performance without breaking the bank. These pads are designed to deliver more stopping power than your average OE replacement while significantly reducing brake dust and noise. If you’re tired of dirty wheels and squealing brakes, the Z23 series is a go-to choice, offering a clean, quiet, and reliable braking experience that feels much better than stock.
Key Features:
– 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:
– Excellent for daily driving and light performance.
– Significantly reduces brake dust for cleaner wheels.
– Virtually silent operation thanks to premium shims and design.
– Complete kit with hardware makes installation straightforward.
– Enhanced durability with corrosion-resistant backing plates.
Cons:
– Not designed for heavy-duty towing or track use.
– Initial bite might feel slightly different than metallic pads.
User Impressions:
Users consistently praise these pads for their quiet operation and noticeable reduction in brake dust. Many report a significant improvement in stopping power compared to stock pads, making them a popular choice for those seeking a hassle-free upgrade for their daily commuter. Installation is often noted as being very easy due to the included hardware.
2. Power Stop Z36-976B Z36 Truck & Tow Front Carbon-Fiber Ceramic Brake Pads
When your ride needs serious stopping power, especially if it’s a truck or SUV used for hauling and towing, the Power Stop Z36 Truck & Tow Front Carbon-Fiber Ceramic Brake Pads are exactly what the mechanic ordered. These aren’t just pads; they’re an extreme performance upgrade engineered to handle the extra demands of heavy loads, ensuring you can stop confidently and safely. Plus, they’re designed to keep your wheels looking sharp with their low-dust formula.
Key Features:
– Upgrade from Low dust Ceramic formula to Truck & Tow Carbon-fiber ceramic.
– Designed to maximize stopping power and keep those wheels clean.
– Carbon-fiber ceramic brake pad features thermal scorched pad surface for a fast break-in.
– Chamfered and slotted with premium stainless steel shims to ensure noise-free braking, just like stock.
– Upgraded with powder coated backing plate, perfect for muscle cars, significantly enhances braking performance and extends life by resisting rust and corrosion.
– Z36 Carbon-fiber brake pad set includes brake grease and premium stainless steel hardware kit.
Pros:
– Extreme stopping power ideal for trucks, SUVs, and towing.
– Low dust formula keeps wheels cleaner than many high-performance pads.
– Fast and effective break-in process due to thermal scorching.
– Exceptionally quiet operation thanks to advanced design and shims.
– Highly durable with excellent corrosion resistance.
Cons:
– Might be overkill for light vehicles or those not used for towing.
– Potentially a firmer pedal feel than standard pads.
User Impressions:
Truck and SUV owners rave about the substantial improvement in braking performance, especially when towing or hauling heavy loads. Many appreciate the reduced dust and quiet operation, noting that these pads offer a “night and day” difference over original equipment. They’re considered a must-have for anyone serious about their vehicle’s stopping capabilities.
3. Power Stop Z36-606 Rear Truck and Tow Carbon-Fiber Ceramic Brake Pads
Don’t forget the rear! For trucks, SUVs, and particularly those specific models like the Toyota Land Cruiser or Lexus GX470, the Power Stop Z36-606 Rear Truck and Tow Carbon-Fiber Ceramic Brake Pads are engineered to complement your front Z36 setup or provide a standalone rear upgrade for enhanced braking balance. These pads are crucial for maintaining optimal stopping power and stability when your vehicle is loaded down or pulling a trailer, ensuring your entire braking system is up to the task.
Key Features:
– Z36 Truck and Tow brake pads have superior stopping power that is demanded by those who tow and haul, as well as the off-road enthusiast.
– To avoid exceeding the limits of your stock brakes, we recommend using Z36 pads any time you add 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:
– Specifically designed for rear axle heavy-duty applications.
– Excellent heat dissipation for consistent performance under stress.
– Virtually noise-free operation.
– Complete with hardware for easy installation.
– Essential for balancing braking performance when towing or hauling.
Cons:
– Vehicle fitment is specific, so always double-check compatibility.
– Not necessary for vehicles that don’t tow or carry heavy loads.
User Impressions:
Customers with compatible vehicles report a noticeable improvement in overall braking stability and feel, especially when paired with Z36 front pads. They highlight the quiet operation and the peace of mind knowing their rear brakes can handle the demands of their loaded vehicles or trailers. The specific fitment guidance is also a plus for confident purchasing.
4. Power Stop Z36-976 Front Truck and Tow Brake Pads For Ford F150
For Ford F-150 owners (and other trucks/4x4s) seeking an ultimate braking upgrade, the Power Stop Z36-976 Front Truck and Tow Brake Pads deliver extreme braking performance without compromising everyday drivability. If you’re pushing your truck to its limits with heavy hauling, off-road adventures, or just want more confidence in your stops, these carbon-fiber ceramic pads are designed to meet those rigorous demands while keeping your wheels clean.
Key Features:
– Z36 Truck & Tow Carbon-Fiber Ceramic brake pads offer extreme braking performance that is designed for trucks or 4x4s without sacrificing everyday drivability.
– Low dust brake pads designed to maximize stopping power and keep those wheels clean.
– Brake pads feature premium stainless steel shims provide better heat dissipation & virtually noise-free braking.
– Z36 Truck & Tow brake pads are made with powder coated backing plate, which extends life by resisting rust and corrosion.
– Powerstop Z36 brake pads have thermal scorched pad surface for a fast break-in.
Pros:
– Provides extreme stopping power for demanding conditions.
– Balances high performance with comfortable daily driving.
– Minimizes brake dust for cleaner wheels.
– Excellent heat management and noise suppression.
– Enhanced durability with corrosion-resistant backing plates.
Cons:
– May be overkill for light trucks not engaged in heavy-duty tasks.
– Specific applications, always verify fitment.
User Impressions:
F-150 owners frequently praise these pads for their ability to handle heavy loads and aggressive driving with ease. They appreciate the low dust output for a performance pad and the quiet operation, stating that the braking feel is much more solid and reliable compared to stock. A common sentiment is “wish I had installed these sooner!”
5. Power Stop Z36-1589 Z36 Truck & Tow Front Carbon-Fiber Ceramic Brake Pads
Another robust option within the Z36 series, the Power Stop Z36-1589 Z36 Truck & Tow Front Carbon-Fiber Ceramic Brake Pads are built for those who demand the best from their truck or SUV. Like its Z36 counterparts, this set offers extreme stopping power, excellent dust control, and quiet performance, making it an ideal choice for vehicles that regularly face demanding conditions. It’s about getting superior braking performance without sacrificing the longevity or comfort you expect.
Key Features:
– Z36 Carbon-Fiber Ceramic formula brake pads offer extreme braking performance that is designed for trucks or 4x4s without sacrificing everyday drivability.
– Low dust formula brake pads designed to maximize stopping power and keep those wheels clean.
– Powder coated backing plate, which extends life by resisting rust and corrosion.
– Thermal scorched pads surface for a fast break-in and fade-free braking performance.
– Premium stainless steel shims provide better heat dissipation And virtually noise-free braking.
Pros:
– Delivers extreme braking power for trucks and 4x4s.
– Maintains a comfortable driving experience for daily use.
– Low dust formula keeps wheels looking cleaner.
– Ensures fade-free and quiet braking.
– Superior durability due to corrosion resistance.
Cons:
– Primarily intended for heavy-duty applications; less critical for very light vehicles.
– Requires proper break-in for optimal performance.
User Impressions:
Customers report that these Z36 pads provide a significant upgrade in braking confidence, especially under heavy loads or in challenging conditions. The low dust and quiet operation are frequently highlighted as major benefits. Users consistently find them to be a durable and high-performing choice for their trucks and SUVs, often exceeding expectations.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: What’s the main difference between Power Stop Z23 and Z36 brake pads?
A1: The Power Stop Z23 series is designed for daily drivers seeking an upgrade over OE, offering excellent stopping power with low dust and noise. The Z36 Truck & Tow series, on the other hand, is built for extreme performance, specifically for trucks, SUVs, and muscle cars that tow, haul, or demand superior braking under heavy loads. Z36 uses a carbon-fiber ceramic formula for maximum stopping power and heat resistance.
Q2: Are Power Stop brake pads good for everyday driving?
A2: Absolutely! While Power Stop offers high-performance options, many of their brake pads, especially the Z23 Evolution Sport series, are excellent for daily driving. They provide superior stopping power, less dust, and quieter operation compared to many standard OEM pads, making your daily commute more comfortable and safer.
Q3: Do Power Stop brake pads typically come with installation hardware?
A3: Yes, most Power Stop brake pad sets, including the Z23 and Z36 series mentioned, come with a complete hardware kit and often ceramic brake lubricant. This makes the installation process much easier and ensures you have all the necessary components for a proper brake job, even if you were initially looking for something like Power Stop S4652 brake pads that come as a complete OE replacement package.
Q4: How do I know if I need new Power Stop brake pads?
A4: Common signs include a squealing or grinding noise when braking, a vibrating steering wheel or brake pedal, a “soft” or “spongy” brake pedal, or if your vehicle takes longer to stop. Visually inspecting your pads for wear (most have wear indicators) is also a good idea. Consult your vehicle’s owner’s manual for recommended inspection intervals.
Q5: What are the benefits of carbon-fiber ceramic brake pads like the Z36 series?
A5: Carbon-fiber ceramic brake pads offer several benefits, particularly for heavy-duty applications:
– Superior Stopping Power: Designed for extreme braking performance.
– Fade Resistance: Handle high temperatures without losing effectiveness.
– Low Dust: Minimize unsightly brake dust on your wheels.
– Quiet Operation: Advanced formulations and shims help reduce noise.
– Durability: Often more resistant to wear and corrosion.
Q6: How long do Power Stop brake pads usually last?
A6: The lifespan of Power Stop brake pads varies greatly depending on driving style, vehicle type, and conditions. However, they are known for their durability. Under normal driving conditions, you can expect thousands of miles of reliable performance. The Z36 series, designed for heavier loads, is built to withstand more stress and typically offers excellent longevity in demanding scenarios.
Q7: Do Power Stop brake pads require a “break-in” period?
A7: Yes, most Power Stop brake pads, especially the performance-oriented ones like the Z36 series (which feature a thermal scorched surface), require a specific break-in (or “bedding-in”) procedure. This process helps transfer a layer of pad material evenly onto the rotor, optimizing braking performance and reducing noise. Power Stop typically provides instructions with their products.
Q8: Can I install Power Stop brake pads myself?
A8: If you have basic mechanical knowledge and the right tools, replacing brake pads can be a DIY project. Power Stop designs many of their pads for easy, “bolt-on ready” installation and includes necessary hardware and lubricant. However, if you’re unsure or uncomfortable, it’s always best to have a certified mechanic perform the installation to ensure safety and proper function.
