When it’s time to replace your vehicle’s brakes, choosing the right components is critical for both safety and performance. ACDelco stands as a trusted name in the automotive parts industry, offering a range of brake pads designed to meet various driving needs and vehicle specifications. From daily commutes to more demanding driving conditions, the right set of brake pads can make a significant difference in your vehicle’s stopping power and your overall confidence on the road.
This review focuses on performance and longevity, two of the most important factors for any brake component. We have compiled a list of eight high-quality ACDelco brake pad sets, examining their construction, features, and the benefits they offer. Whether you prioritize a quiet, smooth ride or robust stopping power, understanding the nuances of each product will help you make an informed decision for your next brake service.
Our Top ACDelco Brake Pad Recommendations
- ACDelco Gold 17D1367ACHF1 Ceramic Front Disc Brake Pad Kit
- ACDelco Gold 17D1367CHF1 Ceramic Front Disc Brake Pad Kit
- ACDelco Gold 17D2173CHF1 Front Disc Brake Pad Kit
- ACDelco Gold 17D1411SDH Performance Ceramic Disc Brake Pad Set
- ACDelco 14D1077CH Advantage Ceramic Front Disc Brake Pad Set
- ACDelco 171D1007CH Advantage Ceramic Rear Disc Brake Pad Set
- ACDelco 171D1006CH Advantage Ceramic Rear Disc Brake Pad Set
- ACDelco 14D1006CH Advantage Ceramic Front Disc Brake Pad Set
ACDelco Gold 17D1367ACHF1 Ceramic Front Disc Brake Pad Kit
This Gold series front brake pad kit is engineered for drivers seeking a balance of quiet operation and reliable performance. The ceramic friction material is integrally molded to the backing plate, ensuring superior bond integrity for consistent braking and a longer service life. This construction method helps maintain the pad’s structural integrity under high temperatures and stress.
To further enhance your driving experience, these pads include premium shims, slots, and chamfers. These features work in concert to diminish noise, vibration, and braking harshness. The stamped backing plate is designed to allow for proper pad movement within the caliper assembly, which helps reduce noise, brake pulsation, and protects against premature wear for a smoother, more confident stop.
ACDelco Gold 17D1367CHF1 Ceramic Front Disc Brake Pad Kit
As part of the premium Gold line, this front disc brake pad kit offers a high-quality solution for many popular vehicle models. The use of ceramic material provides excellent stopping power while producing less dust than semi-metallic alternatives, helping to keep your wheels cleaner. The integral molding process guarantees a secure bond between the friction material and the plate.
This kit is built with a focus on reducing common brake complaints. The inclusion of specialized shims acts as a buffer to dampen sound, while the slots and chamfers on the pads help to disrupt resonant frequencies that cause squealing. The precise engineering of the stamped backing plate ensures a correct fit and smooth operation within the caliper, contributing to overall system longevity and consistent performance.
ACDelco Gold 17D2173CHF1 Front Disc Brake Pad Kit
This Gold series kit is designed to deliver the dependable performance and quiet operation that the line is known for. It shares the same high-standard manufacturing techniques, including the integrally molded friction material that prevents separation and ensures reliable braking force is applied consistently throughout the life of the pad.
The attention to detail in its design is evident in the noise-reduction technology. Premium shims provide an additional layer of vibration damping, while the slots help to vent gases and clean the brake rotor surface. The chamfers and stamped backing plate work together to minimize the potential for noise and uneven wear, making this a solid choice for a hassle-free brake upgrade.
ACDelco Gold 17D1411SDH Performance Ceramic Disc Brake Pad Set
This set represents a performance-oriented option within the Gold family. As a product from a leading manufacturer with international renown, it is built to meet high expectations for durability and braking efficiency. The robust construction is reflected in its substantial package weight, indicating a product designed with quality materials.
While specific technical features for this model are focused on its high-performance application, it benefits from ACDelco’s extensive experience in creating award-winning automotive components. This brake pad set is suited for drivers who require a component that can handle more demanding driving conditions while maintaining the consistent quality associated with the ACDelco brand.
ACDelco 14D1077CH Advantage Ceramic Front Disc Brake Pad Set
The Advantage line provides a reliable and cost-effective braking solution for everyday driving. This ceramic front brake pad set offers the benefits of ceramic friction material, including quiet operation and low dusting, making it an excellent value for vehicle owners. It is designed to meet original equipment service requirements.
These pads are engineered for a smooth and consistent performance, providing dependable stopping power for your daily commute or family travels. As part of the Advantage series, it represents a solid balance between affordability and the quality you expect from the ACDelco name, ensuring your vehicle maintains its braking performance.
ACDelco 171D1007CH Advantage Ceramic Rear Disc Brake Pad Set
Completing your vehicle’s brake system, this Advantage ceramic set is designed for the rear axle. Properly functioning rear brakes are essential for vehicle stability during stopping, and this set delivers the necessary performance. The ceramic formulation ensures a quiet application with minimal dust output.
This set is manufactured to provide a direct fit for a straightforward installation process. It is a practical choice for drivers looking to maintain their vehicle’s original braking characteristics without a premium price tag. The Advantage series is a testament to ACDelco’s commitment to offering quality parts across different product tiers.
ACDelco 171D1006CH Advantage Ceramic Rear Disc Brake Pad Set
This is another specific application within the Advantage rear brake pad lineup. It is engineered to match the original equipment dimensions and performance specs for a wide range of vehicles. The ceramic compound offers a smooth, quiet braking experience that is well-suited for standard passenger cars and SUVs.
By choosing an ACDelco Advantage component, you are selecting a part that has been designed to uphold the vehicle manufacturer’s standards. This focus on compatibility and reliable function makes it a trustworthy option for routine maintenance or repairs, ensuring your rear braking system operates as intended.
ACDelco 14D1006CH Advantage Ceramic Front Disc Brake Pad Set
Rounding out our list is this front brake pad set from the Advantage series. It provides an economical yet dependable braking solution for many common vehicles. The ceramic material ensures that you get the benefits of a quiet, clean, and effective brake pad for your front axle.
This set is ideal for budget-conscious consumers who do not want to compromise on basic quality and performance. It is designed to deliver the stopping power needed for safe daily driving, making it a popular choice for those performing their own maintenance or for professional technicians working on customer vehicles.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Right ACDelco Brake Pads
When I’m looking for new brake pads, I know it’s not a one-size-fits-all situation. My daily commute has different demands than a weekend hauling a trailer. That’s why understanding the different types of ACDelco brake pads is the first step to making a smart choice. It all comes down to the friction material and what I need from my vehicle.
The first type I consider is ceramic. These are the premium option and what I typically recommend for most people driving cars, SUVs, and minivans. They are famous for providing smooth, quiet stops and producing very little dust, which keeps my wheels cleaner. They are easy on the brake rotors and perform consistently in a wide range of temperatures. The trade-off is that they can be a bit more expensive upfront, but for me, the comfort and clean operation are often worth it.
Next up are semi-metallic pads. These are the workhorses. They contain metal fibers, like steel or copper, which makes them extremely durable and excellent at handling heat. If I do a lot of towing, drive in mountainous areas, or have a high-performance vehicle, this is the type I lean towards. They offer strong, aggressive stopping power. The downsides are that they can be noisier than ceramics, they produce more black dust on my wheels, and they may cause more wear on the rotors over time. For heavy-duty use, though, their performance is hard to beat.
Finally, there are organic or non-asbestos organic (NAO) pads. These are made from a mixture of fibers like glass, rubber, and Kevlar bonded together with resin. They are generally the most budget-friendly option and are very gentle on rotors. However, they tend to wear out faster and can produce more dust than ceramic pads. I usually see these as a standard original equipment replacement for older models or for drivers with very modest performance needs.
My final decision always rests on matching the pad to my driving style. For a quiet, clean ride with great all-around performance, I go ceramic. If I need maximum stopping power for heavy loads or spirited driving, I choose semi-metallic. And for a basic, economical replacement, an organic pad does the job. Checking my vehicle’s owner’s manual for the original equipment specification is also a great place to start. By thinking about these factors, I can confidently select from the 8 best ACDelco brake pads reviewed for performance and longevity and find the perfect set for my car.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between ACDelco Gold and Silver brake pads?
This is a common point of confusion. ACDelco Gold brake pads are their premium ceramic line. They are designed for superior quiet operation, low dust, and smooth stopping power, making them an excellent choice for daily drivers. ACDelco Silver pads are typically their professional-grade semi-metallic line. They are built for more demanding applications, offering high-temperature stability and aggressive stopping power, which is ideal for towing or high-performance use. Your choice should be based on your driving needs: comfort and cleanliness with Gold, or maximum performance with Silver.
How long do ACDelco brake pads typically last?
There’s no single mileage number I can give you, as brake pad lifespan depends heavily on your driving habits, vehicle type, and even your local environment. Aggressive city driving with lots of stops and starts will wear pads out much faster than steady highway cruising. That said, you can generally expect a quality set of ACDelco ceramic pads to last anywhere from 30,000 to 70,000 miles. Their semi-metallic pads might have a slightly shorter life due to their more aggressive composition, but they are engineered to withstand higher heat. The best practice is to have your brakes inspected regularly during oil changes.
Are ACDelco brake pads considered OEM quality?
Yes, absolutely. ACDelco is a genuine General Motors original equipment supplier. This means that when you buy a new Chevrolet, Buick, GMC, or Cadillac, it likely left the factory with ACDelco parts on it, including brake pads. So, when you purchase ACDelco brake pads for a replacement, you are getting the same quality and engineering standards that the vehicle was originally designed with. This is a big reason why they are a trusted brand for both professional mechanics and DIYers.
Do I need to replace my rotors when I install new ACDelco brake pads?
Not always, but it’s highly recommended to at least have your rotors resurfaced (also called machining or turning) when you install new pads. Brand new pads need a fresh, smooth surface to properly mate with for optimal performance and longevity. If your old rotors have deep grooves, significant rust, or are warped (which causes pulsation when braking), then replacement is the safer and more effective option. I always check the rotor minimum thickness specification, which is usually stamped on the rotor itself, to see if they can be safely resurfaced or must be replaced.
Can I mix ACDelco brake pads with other brands?
I strongly advise against it. Brake systems are designed as a complete set, with the pads, rotors, and calipers all working in harmony. Mixing pad brands, or even different types from the same brand (like a ceramic pad on one axle and a semi-metallic on the other), can lead to unbalanced braking. This might cause the vehicle to pull to one side during stops, create unusual noises, and lead to premature wear on other components. For your safety and the best performance, always install pads in complete axle sets (both front or both rear) and stick with the same type and brand. When reviewing the 8 best ACDelco brake pads for performance and longevity, you’ll see they are meant to be used as a matched set.