So, you’re shopping for 2016 Nissan Datsun Altima brake pads and rotors. Naturally, you want to fit your vehicle with the correct parts. But you also would like to get the best value for your money. Fortunately, you can accomplish both of these goals. This short primer explains your available options plus a few things to consider when purchasing brake parts for your 2016 Nissan Altima.
What Are the Best Brake Pads?
Drivers almost always want the best brake parts. But let’s change the focus a little bit – finding the highest-quality parts that match your driving needs. To do this, you should consider your typical driving patterns plus temperature and weather conditions.
Materials are key when it comes to replacement brake pads. While you’ll find carbon-ceramic and ferro-carbon brake pads, the most common types on the market are organic, semi-metallic and ceramic. Organic pads typically incorporate materials like rubber, glass, fiberglass or carbon that are bound with resin. Semi-metallic pads blend metals such as iron, copper or steel with graphite lubricant. And ceramic pads contain ceramic particles, with some incorporating fine copper fibers.
Each brake pad material has its advantages. Organic pads are typically the least expensive and offer quiet, low-dust braking. With their moderate friction and heat tolerances, they’re a good option for standard commuter driving. Semi-metallic pads can conduct heat better and require less pressure or braking, but they produce more dust and noise. They’re more expensive than organic pads, but for some performance drivers, the benefits are worth the price.
Ceramic pads are the most expensive, but they’re the quietest and produce little to no dust. They offer reliable braking in a wide temperature range. The big downside is the wear and tear they can exert on your rotors and other braking components. They’re not ideal for racing, but they can handle heavy-duty braking situations.
What Rotors Do You Need?
Rotors are another essential part of the equation when it comes to your braking system. You’ll typically encounter two categories of rotors – blank and vented. The vented styles include drilled or slotted rotors, but you’ll also see some that are both drilled and slotted.
Rotors sport these design features because of their key benefits. Drilled rotors allow more water to escape, so they’re ideal in heavy rains. Slotted rotors are better at handling friction, so they’re best for drivers who need to brake aggressively. Blank rotors are generally the OEM default choice, but they have their advantages as well. They’re structurally more sound than drilled or slotted rotors, so they tend to last a little longer. Most commuters will get good use out of blank rotors.
Where Should You Get Your Brake Parts?
You have many options for getting high-quality Nissan Altima brake pads and rotors, both online and in brick-and-mortar stores. No matter where you go, you should consider the retailer’s product selection, reputation and service before you buy. While it’s important to mind your budget, don’t forget to check out other details on each product while shopping. Customer reviews can provide valuable information on the performance and durability you can expect from a brake component.
