What brake pads do you guys use??

[bagpype]

My 06 4.4 is ready for pads. Are full ceramic overkill? Do they work well when not hot? Can you recommend any other pads that I might find at a NAPA? Should I just go with oem from the dealer? I really really like the way the brakes are on my X and absolutely DO NOT want any diminished performance from them. Ill take brake dust just dont want poor performance. So, what do you guys recommend?

[mistasteppa]

I only use dealer pads

[Naz24]

I'm using OEM...

I found that they have the best performance. we went with aftermarket on my Mom's 4.6is, and they squeel like a mofo! not worth it.

Join BMWCCA for parts discounts from the dealer. worth the $40 a year IMO

[bagpype]

I'm leaning towards OEM also. I get a discount through my brother who is a mechanic at a Volvo dealership. I'm still open for suggestions. Thanks for the responses so far!

[Quicksilver]

I use Akebono.

According to the tire rack web site "Akebono is the first brake pad manufacturer to produce a true ceramic pad for European vehicles that delivers the same European pedal feel and stopping power as the Original Equipment (OE) pads. Akebono's exclusive clean wheel formulations help to eliminate the heavy brake dust issues normally associated with the OE pads, too, and a definitive control of noise, vibration and harshness is felt."

[NYCSterling]

Originally Posted by Quicksilver

I use Akebono.

According to the tire rack web site "Akebono is the first brake pad manufacturer to produce a true ceramic pad for European vehicles that delivers the same European pedal feel and stopping power as the Original Equipment (OE) pads. Akebono's exclusive clean wheel formulations help to eliminate the heavy brake dust issues normally associated with the OE pads, too, and a definitive control of noise, vibration and harshness is felt."

I have been using these for 3 weeks now and my front rims are still clean. I am amazed.
Stopping is a little bit different... but its still new and the rotors are also new.
I just can't get over how less brake dust is being produced.

[admranger]

Originally Posted by NYCSterling

I have been using these for 3 weeks now and my front rims are still clean. I am amazed.
Stopping is a little bit different... but its still new and the rotors are also new.
I just can't get over how less brake dust is being produced.

Yep. I have the Akebono ceramics on all four corners and they leave virtually no visible dust. Even had to get into ABS yesterday when things on the road went awry... They don't have the initial torque of the stock pads, but they work just fine. I've even towed a small Uhaul with no drama at all. Not sure I'd put a huge trailer back there w/these though...

[X5SND]

+1 for Akebono. Not quite as sticky as the OEM's, but still provide great stopping power....with the added bonus you dont have to clean your wheels every second day!

[bagpype]

Are we referring to the pure ceramic akebono?

[X5SND]

Originally Posted by bagpype

Are we referring to the pure ceramic akebono?

Yes sir. One set of OEM's was enough for me. I know you said you didn't mind the brake dust, but that aside.... to me the OEM's were to 'grabby' for my liking.