Which Bendix Ceramic pad did you use to rate it below Centric and Wagner ?
I didn't try either Centric or Wagner yet, I have Bendix CT3 on S2000 now and happy with it, stopping performance as good as OE pad but less dust and noise.
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They were CT-3's I beleive on a 2000 Corolla with aluminum wheels. Aluminum wheels is one of many reasons that I do use ceramic. I don't know if I have ever mentioned this reason before. Usually I only mention the smooth/quiet braking without having any issues during winter or summer(extreme (((COLD))) & ~HOT~) with lots of slush and salt.
The only reason I scored the CT-3's 3*(a very good score by the way) was due to...I had to bench grind the tips(top/bottom) in order to fit into the brakes "hold down slots" and their initial bite after installation as they seemed to need bedding in more so than the others, about 3 days worth of driving. Same with the Raybestos. They just didn't fit correctly without some grinding! But, once they were installed and fit properly and the brakes seated, they were fine, smooth and quiet without any complaints. This is the only reason!
Their fit, without reworking them just a bit just wasn't as good as the others in both cases(Bendix/Raybestos). Otherwise they were fine brakes.
Most ceramic pads that I install don't seem to need any bedding in. Or if they do, it's just nothing that I have ever noticed. Just drive as normal and they always feel fine from the get go.
The CT-3's box even stated something like..."good braking from the very first stop"...Or something to that effect! And it just didn't seem to be this way. Each application is different as you know.
And for anyone that is interested in why I scored the Akebono's a 5 * is for their smooth/quiet operation and perfect fit. Almost creamy smooth! The smoothest/quietest brakes I have ever used to this day and it's been 4 years and they still feel like the day they were installed. They're on a Lexus(which could be why) but, feel even better than the OE. As far as braking power/bite, the Akebono feel the same which is to say, very good. They'll need a replacement soon though and I may throw on a set F & R before winter. I may start buying Ceramic pads by price now that my opinion is as high as it is for them
Every replacement brake pad that I have used, claims that they are "Application Specific Friction" so, each application will feel a bit different. That particular Corolla's braking was never great with any type of friction material. The Corolla was a good car that just went about it's business, never calling much attention to itself. The Corolla's brake pedal was a bit "TOYOTA MUSHY" but the car stopped fine.
One more ceramic pad that I have used and forgot to mention earlier is...Satisfied Brand. I'd give'em 4 stars! They went on easily and lasted as long as the others without any issues til they wore out.
I hope this has helped to answar you question. It's all application based as you know. If you like the Bendix CT-3's, stay with'em! Unless you just want to try others. Like I mentioned, I may buy by price now! Which can I get for less money based on my personal experience.
Good luck,
CB
