NRS vs Akebono vs aftermarket vs OEM pads

[KevinMalone]

Thank you for the detail, I like the data. I'm more of a spreadsheet guy (finance) and trying to learn cars a bit to better maintain them. It seems that Bosch is thinner (which helps with better fluidity?) and a longer life. It is a bit better? Is Bosch DOT 5.1 ?

Yes, Bosch ESI6 is DOT 5.1. The slightly thinner viscosity compared to Motul 5.1 won't make a difference in practice. However, the Bosch is readily available from RockAuto and at a very good price if you are already getting other parts shipped from there

https://www.rockauto.com/en/moreinfo.php?pk=11727065&cc=0&pt=11389&jsn=408

 

[Mav123]

Yes, Bosch ESI6 is DOT 5.1. The slightly thinner viscosity compared to Motul 5.1 won't make a difference in practice. However, the Bosch is readily available from RockAuto and at a very good price if you are already getting other parts shipped from there

https://www.rockauto.com/en/moreinfo.php?pk=11727065&cc=0&pt=11389&jsn=408

"the fluid in the reservoir (where tested) is in the same condition as the fluid in the lines and calipers." I always had the same thought in the back of my mind.

I've heard about Rockauto, but never gave much attention... What is their return policy, couldn't find it on the site ? The same quart of Bosch sold by Amazon is $19.99 !? You're already saving me a lot of money. Thank you so very much.

 

[Mav123]

Interesting video even if sponsored. I'm guessing attachment method is mostly irrelevant for most normal users, and you will be fine sticking with a reputable brand.

Which pads do you use, Akebono? And what is a good/reputable place to get them? I see Rockauto carries some. Thank you.

 

[Mav123]

I noticed Rockauto has cheaper pad options as a wholeseller closeout over regular, but w/ a shorter warranty. How do you pick which one to use?

 

[Mav123]

Found the return policy https://www.rockauto.com/help/?page=4#Returns

 

[Mav123]

I've pretty much exclusively used Akebono Pro Act ceramics as replacement pads on Hondas. I have absolutely no idea how they are attached to the metal backing, but do know that 'in my experience' they have performed equally well to the OE pads. So, I've been satisfied with the performance and the price. Beyond that, nothing else to add about Akebono.

Doesn't look like Rockauto has Pro Act, where do you get them from?

 

[KevinMalone]

Which pads do you use, Akebono? And what is a good/reputable place to get them? I see Rockauto carries some. Thank you.

I deal mostly with European vehicles so I use OE pads that are ECE R90 certified, but that is irrelevant here. I used Bosch Quietcast pads on the few Asian cars I serviced with satisfactory results, but not sure if they are the best. Lots of praise for Akebono but no first hand experience.

RockAuto can save a lot of money if you can make the most out of the shipping costs. Harbour Freight is a great source for DIY tools if you weren't already aware

 

[Sayjac]

Doesn't look like Rockauto has Pro Act, where do you get them from?

It's been a while and I'm not 100% sure. Off hand, one of three places though, Amazon, Rock Auto or AAP using an online code. First two the most likely. Thinking further. iirc I ordered one set of ProAct pads from a parts supplier out of NY, Brooklyn maybe. Name TruBlue parts or something like that. I think that was through Ebay or Amazon. They were legit.

 

[Mav123]

It's been a while and I'm not 100% sure. Off hand, one of three places though, Amazon, Rock Auto or AAP using an online code. First two the most likely. Thinking further. iirc I ordered one set of ProAct pads from a parts supplier out of NY, Brooklyn maybe. Name TruBlue parts or something like that. I think that was through Ebay or Amazon. They were legit.

Thank you, what do you mean: "or AAP using an online code", and "iirc"?

 

[Mav123]

I deal mostly with European vehicles so I use OE pads that are ECE R90 certified, but that is irrelevant here. I used Bosch Quietcast pads on the few Asian cars I serviced with satisfactory results, but not sure if they are the best. Lots of praise for Akebono but no first hand experience.

RockAuto can save a lot of money if you can make the most out of the shipping costs. Harbour Freight is a great source for DIY tools if you weren't already aware

Yes, thank you, Harbor Freight, I bought a few tools, are they long-lasting as compared to the name brands?

 

[Mav123]

Does anyone know if RockAuto has an email address?

 

[slacktide_bitog]

Thank you, what do you mean: "or AAP using an online code", and "iirc"?

AAP = Advance Auto Parts. They often have online codes that you enter when buying online, there is a space to enter the code in the online checkout, and the discount comes off. There are various codes out there, some better than others.

IIRC = if it really counts

 

[Mav123]

AAP = Advance Auto Parts. They often have online codes that you enter when buying online, there is a space to enter the code in the online checkout, and the discount comes off. There are various codes out there, some better than others.

IIRC = if it really counts

Just found , Napa has them. But only the pads. What do you and others use for boots, in Honda Civic?

 

[Mav123]

What do you guys but for boots for the rear brakes? Also, what brakes are good for an SUV, Ford Explorer?
Thank you.

 

[Mav123]

AAP = Advance Auto Parts. They often have online codes that you enter when buying online, there is a space to enter the code in the online checkout, and the discount comes off. There are various codes out there, some better than others.

IIRC = if it really counts

Thank you for the lead, AAP has them for $10 cheaper. Where do you find coupons?

 

[Sayjac]

Thank you, what do you mean: "or AAP using an online code", and "iirc"?

You're welcome.
AAP, Advance Auto Parts, iirc,= If I remember correctly.

AAP codes can be found on RetailMeNot.com, and some other deal sites. 15% off no minimum common every day. Just missed 20% off no minimum code for Labor Day. On caveat, AAP has exclusions for code use. Wouldn't think Akebono pads one those, but you would have to check.

 

[slacktide_bitog]

Thank you for the lead, AAP has them for $10 cheaper. Where do you find coupons?

Just found , Napa has them. But only the pads. What do you and others use for boots, in Honda Civic?

You can find coupons on AAP's site, and various forums, and sometimes even by googling advanceautoparts discount code.

For the boots, anything will do. You don't need any special brand. The auto parts stores will have them.

 

[JoeDirt41]

I work at AAP, the Carquest platinum pads are excellent but they are overpriced. The standards (used to be called silver) are absolutely junk. The Golds are acceptable for an older vehicle or something you don't want to keep long or dump lots of money into, but they are not in the same class as Akebono or OEM.

 

[Mav123]

I work at AAP, the Carquest platinum pads are excellent but they are overpriced. The standards (used to be called silver) are absolutely junk. The Golds are acceptable for an older vehicle or something you don't want to keep long or dump lots of money into, but they are not in the same class as Akebono or OEM.

Thank you for the honest opinion.

 

[Mav123]

And the boots, just any? as @slacktide_bitog mentioned.
Anyone, in case I missed you? @JoeDirt41 , @Sayjac , @Kantaro
Thank you