Has anybody ever use non-OEM rear brake pads on their LS400 or LS430?
I am thinking of replacing the rear pads. They look like they got about 2000 to 3000 miles in life left in them. Should I get the OEM pads for the rear? I have OEM pads in the front, because I think since the front brakes do most of the work, I better get some decent stopping power, plus I couldn't find any ref on how good the non-OEM pads really are. If anybody has any suggestion on a good set of rear pads, I would appreciate it. I think I may get away with non-OEM rear brakes. One or two things that these pads have to do tough is have some decent stopping power and not produce $#it load of break dust. Thanks.

 

Non-OEM brake pads used in conjunction with the factory original brake rotors can cause accelerated brake rotor wear, squealing brakes in humid weather and annoying brake dust accumulation on the wheels.

On Lexus's website there is an FAQ on Car Care. Here's what it says about_ Brake Pad Materials:

Question: What materials are used in the Lexus brake pad?

Lexus FAQ Answer: "The brake pad material of Lexus vehicles is chosen for normal driving and is composed of many different materials, including non-asbestos friction materials, filler materials, and high temperature resins. Some of our pads also include very, very small amounts of finely powdered metal. This amount of metal is so small that we do not refer to these pads as metallic. The different materials for the "recipe" for a particular year and model are mixed together, compressed, and formed into the desired shape"

 

sounds convincing. what's the source of info on that first paragraph of your reply, if it's not a secret.

 

Lots of discussion on this topic and wealth of info to ponder over. In the end, I'd stick with the OEM ceramic compound which provides low to no dusting and very capable stopping. If you have done a BBK upgrade, I'd go with what was recommended by the kit manufacturer.

Tire Rack has some OEM type ceramic replacements that has received positive comments.

 

tnaks ra40. I have stock brakes, no upgrade. I will most likely get the oem pads, but was trying to research what else is out there that is as good or close. Seems like oem is the way to go for brake pads though. thanks again.