You rely on your Ford Explorer for daily drives, family trips, towing, errands, and highway miles. Choosing the right brake pads matters because they affect stopping feel, noise, brake dust, rotor wear, and long-term maintenance cost. This guide helps you compare Explorer-focused ceramic brake pad options by model year, axle position, hardware, and best use case so you can pick a set that fits your vehicle instead of guessing.
Affiliate disclosure: This roundup is reader-supported. When you click through Amazon links, we may earn a referral commission on qualifying purchases.
Quick Verdict
If you want the safest all-around starting point for many 2011–2019 Explorer applications, the Bendix Priority1 CFC1508 Front Brake Pads are the strongest pick because they come from a trusted brake brand and focus on OE-style fit, quiet operation, and consistent daily braking. If your Explorer uses the Bosch-compatible front setup, the Bosch QuietCast BC1611 Front Pads are a strong quiet-braking option. For a complete front-and-rear aftermarket kit on compatible 2013–2019 Explorer models, the Evkingauto D1611/D1612 8-piece set gives you a simple one-box solution.
Important: Brake pad fit depends on your exact year, trim, axle position, rotor size, and part number. Always verify fitment with your VIN, Amazon Garage, the seller fitment tool, or a trusted parts counter before ordering.
Top Picks
|
Category |
Product |
Best For |
|---|---|---|
|
🏆 Best Overall |
OE-style front braking for many 2011–2019 Explorer applications |
|
|
⚡ Best Quiet Front Pad |
Low-noise front braking with shims, hardware, and lubricant |
|
|
🎯 Best for Older Explorers |
Select older Explorer, Ranger, Mazda B-series, and Mountaineer applications |
|
|
🔊 Best Rear OE-Style Option |
Quiet rear brake replacement on compatible Ford/Lincoln applications |
|
|
🚗 Best for Newer Explorers |
Rear brake pad replacement for listed 2020–2023 Explorer models |
|
|
💰 Best Rear Value |
PM Auto Rear Brake Pads For 2011-2019 Ford Explorer (Set of 4) – Ceramic |
Budget-friendly rear pad swap for listed 2011–2019 Explorer fitment |
|
🚀 Best Full Kit for 2013–2019 |
evkingauto D1611 D1612 8pcs Ceramic Front Rear Brake Pads With Clips |
Front-and-rear pad kit for compatible Ford/Lincoln models |
|
🛠️ Best Complete Set for 2006–2010 |
evkingauto D881 D1158 8pcs Ceramic Front Rear Brake Pads With Clips |
Full front-and-rear kit for listed 2006–2010 Explorer-family vehicles |
|
💡 Best Alternative Full Set |
Aftermarket 8-piece option for listed 2013–2019 Explorer-compatible fitment |
|
|
🔁 Solid Aftermarket Option |
ALADICHE Front Rear Ceramic Brake Pads Compatible with Ford Explorer/Flex/Taurus |
Value-focused full set for listed Ford/Lincoln fitment |
How We Chose These Brake Pads
You want brake pads that fit your specific Explorer, stop predictably, and do not create new problems like squeal, heavy dust, missing clips, or confusing compatibility. We focused on vehicle fitment, axle position, ceramic friction material, included hardware, brand reputation, product clarity, and how easy it is for a DIY owner or mechanic to confirm the correct part.
We also considered whether each set covers the front, rear, or both axles. That matters because replacing only one axle when you meant to refresh all four corners can lead to extra downtime and a second order.
Before You Buy: Ford Explorer Brake Pad Fitment Checklist
- Confirm your Explorer year, trim, engine, and drivetrain.
- Check whether you need front pads, rear pads, or a full front-and-rear kit.
- Verify rotor size when the listing mentions a specific rotor diameter.
- Match FMSI or OEM-style numbers such as D1611, D1612, D2232, D881, or D1158 only when they apply to your vehicle.
- Look for included clips, springs, shims, lubricant, and other hardware if you want a cleaner DIY job.
- Plan to bed new pads properly after installation so the pad and rotor surfaces mate evenly.
Bendix Priority1 CFC1508 Front Brake Pads
If your Explorer matches the listed CFC1508 front pad application, this Bendix set is the easiest product to recommend first. It focuses on the basics most Explorer owners care about: OE-style fit, quiet braking, lower visible dust than many older pad compounds, and included installation hardware.
This is a strong choice for daily drivers, family vehicles, and highway use where you want predictable stopping rather than a harsh or grabby performance-pad feel. It is also a good option if you prefer buying from a more established brake-parts name instead of a newer aftermarket seller.
Best for: Explorer owners who want a front brake pad from a known brand with OE-style manners.
Check before buying: Confirm your Explorer year, trim, axle, rotor size, and part number match the listing.
Why You’ll Like It
- Designed for quiet, controlled daily braking
- Ceramic material helps reduce visible brake dust
- Included hardware can make installation smoother
- Good fit for buyers who want brand confidence and simple maintenance
Who Should Avoid This
Skip this set if your Explorer uses a different front pad shape, a different rotor size, or if you need rear pads instead of front pads.
Bosch QuietCast BC1611 Front Pads
If brake noise is your biggest complaint, the Bosch QuietCast BC1611 front pads deserve a close look. The QuietCast line is built around noise control, and this set includes pre-attached multilayer rubber shims, hardware, and lubricant so a DIY installation is less likely to turn into a parts-store run.
These pads are a good match for compatible Explorers used for commuting, family driving, and highway trips. They are not meant to turn your SUV into a track vehicle, but they do solve a common owner problem: replacing worn pads with something quieter, cleaner, and easier to live with.
Best for: Drivers who want a quiet front pad with shims, hardware, and lubricant included.
Check before buying: Some Explorer trims and rotor sizes may require a different pad. Confirm fit before ordering.
Why You’ll Like It
- Molded Shim Technology helps reduce vibration and brake noise
- Ceramic friction material supports consistent stopping and lower dust
- Powder-coated backing plates help resist corrosion
- Included lubricant and hardware make the install more convenient
Who Should Avoid This
Choose another set if your Explorer does not match the BC1611 fitment or if you need a full front-and-rear kit instead of front pads only.
Bendix Premium SBC833 Ceramic Front Brake Pads
For older Explorer-family vehicles, the Bendix SBC833 front pads are a practical pick when the fitment matches. They are aimed at owners who want a normal, reliable ceramic replacement rather than a high-friction performance pad.
The biggest appeal is simplicity. You get a known brake brand, ceramic material for lower dust and noise, and an OE-style approach that should feel familiar during everyday driving. This makes the set a sensible option for older SUVs that still handle commuting, errands, light hauling, or weekend use.
Best for: Owners of compatible older Explorer, Ranger, Mazda B-series, or Mercury Mountaineer applications who need front pads.
Check before buying: Older Ford-family fitment can vary by year and trim. Confirm the part number before ordering.
Why You’ll Like It
- Good option for compatible older Explorer-family vehicles
- Ceramic compound helps reduce brake dust
- Designed for quiet, predictable everyday braking
- Useful for routine maintenance and DIY replacement
Who Should Avoid This
Do not buy this set for newer Explorer generations or rear brake service unless the listing specifically confirms the fit for your exact vehicle and axle.
Bendix Premium SBC1754 Ceramic Rear Brake Pads
If you need rear pads for a compatible Explorer, the Bendix SBC1754 set is worth checking because it focuses on the same strengths that make ceramic pads popular for daily SUVs: quieter stops, less visible dust, and a steady pedal feel during normal driving.
This is a better fit for daily commuting, school runs, and highway use than for extreme duty. If you tow often, drive in steep terrain, or carry heavy loads, confirm whether a heavier-duty compound is a better match for your use.
Best for: Drivers who want a rear ceramic pad from an established brake brand.
Check before buying: Make sure the SBC1754 fitment matches your exact Explorer axle and model year.
Why You’ll Like It
- Rear ceramic pad option from a known brake-parts brand
- Designed for quiet, controlled stops
- Helps reduce visible wheel dust compared with many worn or older pad compounds
- Good choice for routine rear brake maintenance
Who Should Avoid This
Skip it if you need front pads, a complete four-corner kit, or a heavy-duty towing-focused brake compound.
SCITOO Rear Ceramic Brake Pads (D2232) – 4PCS
If you own a newer Explorer and need rear pads, the SCITOO D2232 set is the most direct option in this roundup for listed 2020–2023 Explorer fitment. It is built as a rear pad kit, so it suits owners who do not need front pads and do not want to buy a full four-corner set.
The ceramic compound and slotted pad design are aimed at quieter, cleaner everyday braking. The included hardware also helps reduce one of the biggest DIY frustrations: getting into the job and realizing you need extra clips or springs.
Best for: Listed 2020–2023 Explorer rear brake pad replacement.
Check before buying: Confirm your specific trim and rear brake setup before ordering.
Why You’ll Like It
- Targets newer Explorer rear brake applications
- Includes hardware for a more complete rear brake service
- Ceramic material supports quieter, lower-dust driving
- Good option when only the rear axle needs attention
Who Should Avoid This
Do not choose this if you drive an older Explorer, need front pads, or want a front-and-rear kit.
PM Auto Rear Ceramic Brake Pads (Set of 4)
If your 2011–2019 Explorer only needs rear pads, the PM Auto set keeps the decision simple. You are not paying for a front-and-rear kit when the rear axle is the only job on your list.
The main appeal is value and simplicity. The ceramic compound is aimed at quieter braking and lower dust, while the rear-only packaging works well for owners who already inspected their front pads and know the rear set is due.
Best for: Budget-minded rear brake service on listed 2011–2019 Explorer models.
Check before buying: Confirm the listing matches your rear calipers and OEM-style part numbers.
Why You’ll Like It
- Rear-only set avoids buying parts you do not need
- Ceramic compound targets lower dust and quieter operation
- Good fit for practical maintenance on a daily-driver Explorer
- Useful when price matters but you still want ceramic pads
Who Should Avoid This
Choose another product if you need front pads, a complete four-corner kit, or a better-known brake brand.
Evkingauto Ceramic Brake Pads (8-Piece)
If you want to refresh both front and rear pads on a compatible 2013–2019 Explorer-family vehicle, this Evkingauto D1611/D1612 kit is one of the simplest full-set choices. You get eight pads and clips in one box, which is helpful if your goal is to handle all four corners during one service appointment.
The ceramic material is aimed at cleaner wheels and quieter stops, while the included clips reduce the odds of needing extra hardware. This is a practical option for DIYers who want a complete kit and are comfortable verifying fitment themselves.
Best for: Compatible 2013–2019 Explorer-family vehicles needing front and rear pads together.
Check before buying: Confirm D1611/D1612 fitment, model year, trim, and axle hardware before ordering.
Why You’ll Like It
- Complete 8-piece kit for front and rear service
- Includes clips to simplify installation
- Ceramic material helps reduce dust and noise
- Useful for DIY owners who want one kit instead of separate front and rear orders
Who Should Avoid This
Skip it if your Explorer is outside the listed fitment range or if you prefer a more established brake brand.
evkingauto Ceramic Brake Pads (8pc)
If you own a compatible 2006–2010 Explorer-family vehicle, this evkingauto D881/D1158-style kit is the complete-set option to check. It includes front and rear pads plus clips, so it is built for a full brake refresh rather than a single-axle repair.
The value is convenience. Instead of matching separate front and rear pad sets, you can check one listing against your vehicle and order one complete kit if the fitment matches. The ceramic compound is best suited to normal commuting, family use, and routine maintenance.
Best for: Listed 2006–2010 Explorer, Explorer Sport Trac, and Mercury Mountaineer applications.
Check before buying: Confirm the D881/D1158 fitment and make sure you need both front and rear pads.
Why You’ll Like It
- Complete front-and-rear kit for compatible older Explorer-family vehicles
- Includes clips for a more complete install
- Ceramic material targets lower dust and reduced noise
- Good option for full-service maintenance on an older SUV
Who Should Avoid This
Do not buy this kit for 2011+ Explorer models or for any trim that does not match the listed pad numbers.
DYZJKWJW Ceramic Brake Pads (8-Piece)
The DYZJKWJW 8-piece set is another full-kit option for listed D1611/D1612 Explorer-compatible applications. It is most useful when you want front and rear pads in one order and you are already comfortable cross-checking fitment by part number.
Because this is a lesser-known aftermarket brand, the buying decision should come down to fitment clarity, included hardware, return policy, and your comfort with the seller. If all of those look good, it can be a practical value option for routine ceramic pad replacement.
Best for: Value-focused buyers who want a complete 8-piece kit for listed D1611/D1612 fitment.
Check before buying: Review the current listing, seller details, and return policy before ordering.
Why You’ll Like It
- Full front-and-rear ceramic pad set
- Includes clips for a more complete replacement
- Targets listed Ford Explorer, Flex, Taurus, Police Interceptor, and Lincoln applications
- Good backup choice if higher-trust brands are not the right fit or price
Who Should Avoid This
Choose Bendix or Bosch if you prefer a more established brake brand, or choose a rear-only set if your front pads are still healthy.
ALADICHE Front/Rear Ceramic Brake Pads
The ALADICHE front/rear ceramic set is a value-minded aftermarket option for listed 2013–2019 Explorer-compatible fitment. Like the other full kits, its main advantage is that it covers both axles in one order.
This is not the first pick if brand reputation is your top priority, but it may appeal if you want a broad-fitment full kit and the current listing confirms your exact Explorer. Treat fitment verification as the deciding step before buying.
Best for: Shoppers comparing lower-cost full kits for listed 2013–2019 Explorer-family vehicles.
Check before buying: Confirm hardware, return policy, seller details, and exact vehicle fitment.
Why You’ll Like It
- Full front-and-rear ceramic pad set
- Useful for one-order four-corner replacement when fitment matches
- Ceramic material is aimed at quieter, cleaner everyday braking
- Can be a budget alternative to more established brands
Who Should Avoid This
Skip it if you prefer a brand with a longer brake-parts reputation, need only one axle, or cannot confirm the fitment with confidence.
How to Choose Brake Pads for a Ford Explorer
Start with fitment, not price. A good brake pad that does not match your caliper, rotor size, or axle is still the wrong pad. Check your Explorer’s year, trim, drivetrain, axle position, and rotor size before comparing brands.
Ceramic vs Semi-Metallic Pads
Ceramic pads are popular for daily-driven Explorers because they usually run quieter and produce less visible dust. Semi-metallic pads may be a better match for repeated heavy braking, steep grades, or frequent towing. If your Explorer regularly carries heavy loads, ask a trusted mechanic whether a heavy-duty compound makes more sense.
Front Pads, Rear Pads, or Full Kits
Front pads usually handle more braking force, but rear pads still matter for stability and balanced stopping. If only one axle is worn, a rear-only or front-only kit can save money. If all pads are worn, an 8-piece kit can save time and reduce part-matching confusion.
Hardware Matters
Clips, shims, springs, and lubricant can affect noise and installation quality. Reusing old corroded hardware can cause squeaks, uneven wear, or poor pad movement. If your kit does not include hardware, inspect the old parts carefully and replace anything worn or rusty.
FAQ
How Do I Choose The Right Brake Pads For My Ford Explorer?
Confirm your exact year, trim, axle position, rotor size, and part number first. Then choose the pad material based on how you drive. Ceramic pads are usually a good match for quiet daily use and lower dust, while semi-metallic or heavy-duty compounds may suit repeated hard braking, towing, or steep terrain better. Do not assume one Explorer brake pad fits every trim.
Should I Replace Front And Rear Brake Pads At The Same Time?
You do not always need to replace both axles at once. Replace pads on both wheels of the same axle together, then inspect the other axle. If all four corners are worn or you want a full refresh, an 8-piece front-and-rear kit can be convenient.
What Should I Expect When Installing An Aftermarket Brake Pad Kit?
Expect to check the fit carefully before opening everything. You will usually need a jack, jack stands, basic hand tools, a torque wrench, brake cleaner, and suitable caliper grease. Inspect the rotors for scoring, deep grooves, warping, or thin spots. Replace or resurface rotors when needed, and make sure all clips, shims, and slide pins are clean and correctly installed.
How Do I Bed New Brake Pads?
Follow the pad maker’s bedding instructions when provided. In general, bedding means making a controlled series of moderate stops so the pad material transfers evenly to the rotor surface. Avoid panic stops, hard towing, or holding the brake pedal down after aggressive stops during the early break-in period unless the manufacturer says otherwise.
Why Are My New Brake Pads Squeaking?
Common causes include missing or reused hardware, dry slide pins, glazed pads, uneven rotor surfaces, improper bedding, or the wrong pad for your vehicle. If noise continues after installation and bedding, inspect the hardware and rotor condition or have a professional check the brake system.
Are Ceramic Brake Pads Good For Towing With A Ford Explorer?
Ceramic pads can work well for normal driving and occasional light towing when the fitment is correct. If you tow often, drive in mountains, or carry heavy loads, consider a heavy-duty pad compound and make sure your rotors, calipers, tires, and brake fluid are also in good condition.
Final Recommendation
If your Explorer fitment matches, start with the Bendix Priority1 CFC1508 Front Brake Pads for a trusted front-pad choice, the Bosch QuietCast BC1611 if quiet operation is your top priority, and the SCITOO D2232 if you drive a listed 2020–2023 Explorer and need rear pads. For full front-and-rear service, compare the Evkingauto, DYZJKWJW, and ALADICHE 8-piece kits by exact part number, hardware, seller confidence, and return policy.
For the safest result, do not order by product name alone. Match the pad to your Explorer’s exact year, trim, axle, rotor size, and OEM-style part number, then bed the pads properly after installation.
Comparison Table
| Product | Image | Material | Primary Fitment Focus | Kit Type | Best For | Amazon |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bendix Priority1 CFC1508 Brake Pads |
 |
Ceramic | Listed 2011–2019 Explorer-compatible front applications | Front pad set | Best overall starting point when fitment matches | Check Details |
| Bosch QuietCast BC1611 Front Pads |
 |
Ceramic | Listed Explorer-compatible front applications | Front pad set with hardware and lubricant | Quiet front braking | Check Details |
| Bendix SBC833 Ceramic Brake Pads |
 |
Ceramic | Select older Explorer-family applications | Front pad set | Older compatible Explorers | Check Details |
| Bendix SBC1754 Ceramic Brake Pads |
 |
Ceramic | Listed Ford Edge, Explorer, Flex, Police Interceptor Utility, Taurus, Lincoln MKS, MKT, and MKX applications | Rear pad set | Rear OE-style replacement | Check Details |
| SCITOO D2232 Rear Ceramic Brake Pads |
 |
Ceramic | Listed 2020–2023 Ford Explorer rear applications | Rear 4-piece set with hardware | Newer Explorer rear pad replacement | Check Details |
| PM Auto Rear Brake Pads |
 |
Ceramic | Listed 2011–2019 Ford Explorer rear applications | Rear 4-piece set | Budget rear pad service | Check Details |
| D1611 D1612 8pcs Ceramic Brake Pads |
 |
Ceramic | Listed 2013–2019 Explorer-compatible Ford/Lincoln applications | 8-piece front-and-rear kit | Full kit for compatible 2013–2019 models | Check Details |
| D881 D1158 8pcs Ceramic Brake Pads |
 |
Ceramic | Listed 2006–2010 Ford Explorer, 2007–2010 Explorer Sport Trac, and 2006–2010 Mercury Mountaineer applications | 8-piece front-and-rear kit | Complete kit for listed older models | Check Details |
| D1611 D1612 Front Rear Brake Pads |
 |
Ceramic | Listed Ford Explorer/Flex/Taurus/Police Interceptor and Lincoln MKS/MKT applications | 8-piece front-and-rear kit | Alternative full aftermarket set | Check Details |
| ALADICHE Front/Rear Ceramic Brake Pads |
 |
Ceramic | Listed 2013–2019 Ford Explorer and related Ford/Lincoln applications | Front-and-rear set | Budget aftermarket comparison pick | Check Details |
This Roundup is reader-supported. When you click through links we may earn a referral commission on qualifying purchases.
