Brake Pads
 

Folks,

I know this is a common question... and I've searched old posts. The market changes frequently, so I was hoping to get some updated info.

Looking for some good brake pads for my 94 E420. Specifically, I'd like LOW DUST, no noise and good braking (like most of us). What do you recommend for front and back?

I have looked at the Axxis pads, as many have recommended them... but they have 4 kinds, so I'm not sure which:

http://www.axxisbrakes.com/products.htm

I also looked at the EBC Greenstuff, but reviews here have been mixed. I'm not sure if they're newer "v4" have changed opinions.

Thoughts?

go for the 'Deluxe', that's what we have on our wagon, and our BMW. The best.

Deluxe or Deluxe Plus?

well, not sure, but either would be fine for your needs.

Deluxe plus,Deluxe plus,Deluxe plus,Deluxe plus.
;)

Deluxe Plus is the newer one and is Asbestos free. I bought the Deluxe Plus front pads for '00 E430 based on recommendations from many in this forum. But I did not install it yet. The current front pad is ATE and it generates so much dust.

I just talked to my mechanic and he says that the more dust the better. It tells him that the pads are working and biting. He says the hard pads get scary as they cause brake fade. That's his opinion anyway.

I have Kleen Wheels for new wheels I just purchased, but I'm afraid of putting them on because of possible overheat problems. Plus, when I did a test fit on one wheel they seemed to rub.

Anyway, looking forward to more suggestions.

The deluxe plus pads are not "hard" pads. They are the same compound as the OEM ATE pads. They are organic just like them. The only difference is they have been formulated to have less dust.
The Axxis metalmasters and others are the "hard" pads he is talking about and I would not recommend them unless you intend to do some racing.
But if you feel good about the ATE pads then stick with them, after all they are OEM.

Your Mechanic is right about all what he said to you. If you decide to go with low dust pads, I gurantee you they will fade in no time and won't stop the car just as good. Not to mention the squeal that will evolve as a result of fading. You will end up replacing them soon and resurface your disks. Stay away from Kleen wheels. Let me explain why? The distant between the disk and the wheel is very crucial for brake heat dissipation and that is why wheels are torqued. So, imagine putting Kleen wheels in the middle. You are basically blocking heating from escaping. This heat is WHAT WILL WORP YOUR WHEELS. Big $$$$$$$ to replace. I suggest to live with the dust. Just clean them once a week. It is much safer when you stop the car. I only buy PAGID brake pads. They are by far the best. The same applies to ATE, however, I believe they are one short step behind.
Good luck.
Meza
Test Engineer

PS. Rememeber that the people who designed and tested the car know better.

The axxis deluxe has been a good choice for me. They do have a slightly higher pedal effort that I don't notice. As far as fade, that's not a problem with higher metallic content, actually thats when they get better than the stock stuff. Stay away from the metal masters and never put sheilds on your wheels!

Meza, Thanks for you input.

I won't argue with your comments on Kleen Wheels, because I just don't know. But I can't imagine that with all of the cars in this group that no one else seems to be concerned about some of the non OEM brake pads being used.

Rocket, have you tried the deluxe plus? Just curious as Yal (above) seems to think they are much better.

I find Textar to be the best, and Pagid next.

I use Pagid now.... very dirty. I heard Textar Yellow is good.

First, I ve had Kleen Wheels on both of my vehicles for over 100k combined and still have the original rotors with no warping. I use OEM pads only, as that is what MB designed into your vehicle. If you want the stopping ability that is probably best for your car, use OEM pads and either clean your wheels more often or try the Kleen Wheels. Some of the other combinations of rotors and pad will change feel of your braking. Just my 2 cents for free.

My new to me 1991 300CE was 100% dealer service by the PO. I assume that the pads are OEM. I really like the feel of the brakes though of course hate the dust. In between washing the car, I've opted to regularly dust the wheels with a soft bristle short handle brush. Takes all of 2 minutes. Doesn't make the wheels spotless but makes them a heck of a sight better with little effort.


glenmore
1991 300CE