[2018 Mazda CX-5] It’s that time of year, that tell tale squeak is here, letting me know the it’s time for new shoes. Given that I live in a colder climate, I’m leaning towards semi-metallic brakes, but I know I’m risking faster wear on my rotors. Any suggestions on brake pads you all usually use? Same for oil in general
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I personally don’t believe there is a big difference on ceramic vs. semi-metallic pads on stopping difference when cold, and if anything, ceramic pads make up the difference in increased longevity. I use Wagner Quickstop pads on all of my vehicles and have no complains about noise, life, or dust.
For oil, pretty much any full synthetic in your viscosity would work. I would pick an oil that is Dexos1 Gen 3 licensed (the majority of full synthetic 0w-20’s will be) for an additional echelon of quality over the standard API SP & ILSAC GF-6 license.
From there, you can pick whichever brand is on sale or whichever jug is your favorite color. They’ll all work just fine and you’ll get a bigger benefit by using a better quality oil filter and changing your engine air filter regularly. I personally prefer Quaker State Full Synthetic oil and Fram Ultra oil filters.
Semi-metallic pads aren’t as good in winter as ceramic. They have to heat up to work their best. Factory pads were ceramic. I would only change to semi-metallic if you need more braking power.