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Best Rear Brake Pads for Cars with Drum-to-Disc Conversions (2026)

If you’re converting an older car from rear drums to discs or upgrading rear pads after a conversion, this guide is written for DIY mechanics, small-shop techs, and drivers who split time between city commuting, highway miles, and occasional towing. You’ll learn which rear pads perform best with conversion setups, what materials and hardware to prioritize, and which Bendix models give the easiest fit and longest service life. Products were selected for compatibility with conversion rotors/calipers, proven OE-style fit, positive owner feedback on fit/ease of install, and material choices that suit mixed-use driving.

Quick Answer

For most drum-to-disc conversions and mixed-use driving, the Bendix Priority1 CFC2081 Ceramic Rear Brake Pads offer the best balance of OE-fit, quiet operation, and included hardware. If you need a lower-cost option, the Bendix CFM1277 semi‑metallic is the best budget pick.

Quick Comparison

Select 2-3 products to compare side-by-side

Product comparison table
Compare Product GarageGist Score Price Tier Key Feature Best For Action
Bendix Priority1 CFC2081 Ceramic Rear Brake Pads for Jeep Compass 2023-2017 Bendix CFC2081 Ceramic
4.8
Premium OE-fit ceramic compound DIY conversions & quiet mixed driving Check Price
Bendix Priority1 CFC1498 Ceramic Rear Brake Pads for Dodge Durango 2022-2011, Jeep Grand Cherokee 2022-2011, Grand Cherokee WK 2022 Bendix CFC1498 Ceramic
4.8
Mid-Range Balanced ceramic performance Value-focused conversion projects Check Price
Bendix Priority1 CFC2144 Ceramic Rear Brake Pads for Genesis G70 2024-2019, Kia Stinger 2023-2018 Bendix CFC2144 Ceramic
4.8
Premium High-temp ceramic compound Performance-oriented mixed drivers Check Price
Bendix Priority1 CFM1277 Semi-Metallic Rear Brake Pads for Volkswagen Touareg 2006, Touareg 2010 Bendix CFM1277 Semi‑Metallic
4.8
Budget Durable semi‑metallic compound Budget builds and heavier duty use Check Price
Bendix Priority1 CFC792HD Ceramic Rear Brake Pads for Select Models Cadillac DeVille, DTS, Chevrolet Astro, Silverado 1500, 1500 Classic, Suburban Tahoe, GMC Safari, Sierra Yukon, Yukon XL Bendix CFC792HD Ceramic
4.8
Mid-Range Heavy-duty ceramic option Full-size conversions and light towing Check Price
Bendix Priority1 CFM1907 Semi-Metallic Rear Brake Pads for Select Models Mercedes-Benz AMG GT 63, 63 S, C63 AMG, S63 S65 S65L Bendix CFM1907 Semi‑Metallic
4.8
Mid-Range High-performance semi-metallic Sporty conversions on performance cars Check Price
Bendix Priority1 CFC1415 Rear Brake Pads for INFINITI EX35,EX37,FX35,G25,G37,JX35,M35h,M37,Q40,Q50,Q60,Q70,Q70L,QX50,QX60,QX70,Nissan 370Z,Altima,Juke,LEAF,Maxima,Murano,Pathfinder,Quest,Rogue,Sport Bendix CFC1415 Ceramic
4.8
Budget OEM-like ceramic value Budget-conscious daily drivers Check Price
0 products selected

1. Bendix Priority1 CFC2081 Ceramic Rear Brake Pads for Jeep Compass 2023-2017

Bendix Priority1 CFC2081 Ceramic Rear Brake Pads for Jeep Compass 2023-2017
4.8/5 GarageGist Score · editorially ranked

Designed to meet OE fit, form and function, these ceramic pads are a top choice for rear-disc conversions where rotor clearance and quiet operation matter. Owners report easy installation with included hardware, low dust, and consistent stopping across city and highway driving.

Key Specs

  • OE replacement fit for precise alignment
  • Advanced ceramic friction material for low dust
  • Engineered shims, slots, and chamfers for noise control
  • Includes installation hardware and grease

Pros

  • Excellent OE-style fit—helps with conversion clearance
  • Quiet braking and low dust for street use
  • Hardware included eases DIY installs

Cons

  • Premium tier pricing
  • Ceramic pads may wear faster under heavy towing than heavy-duty semi-metallics

Best For: DIY conversions & quiet mixed driving

Check Latest Price on Amazon

2. Bendix Priority1 CFC1498 Ceramic Rear Brake Pads for Dodge Durango 2022-2011, Jeep Grand Cherokee 2022-2011, Grand Cherokee WK 2022

Bendix Priority1 CFC1498 Ceramic Rear Brake Pads for Dodge Durango 2022-2011, Jeep Grand Cherokee 2022-2011, Grand Cherokee WK 2022
4.8/5 GarageGist Score · editorially ranked

A mid-range ceramic option praised for fit and quiet operation, this set is a solid pick for converters who want low dust and consistent braking without paying top-tier prices. It includes the necessary clips and grease, which reduces extra parts buying when completing a rear disc swap.

Key Specs

  • OE-engineered replacement design
  • Advanced friction material for steady stopping
  • Designed to resist brake fade under normal loads
  • Comes with installation hardware

Pros

  • Good balance of price and performance for mixed driving
  • Quiet operation—shims and chamfers help
  • Hardware included for cleaner installs

Cons

  • Not the cheapest option for tight budgets
  • Some debate around long-term durability under heavy use

Best For: Value-focused conversion projects

Check Latest Price on Amazon

3. Bendix Priority1 CFC2144 Ceramic Rear Brake Pads for Genesis G70 2024-2019, Kia Stinger 2023-2018

Bendix Priority1 CFC2144 Ceramic Rear Brake Pads for Genesis G70 2024-2019, Kia Stinger 2023-2018
4.8/5 GarageGist Score · editorially ranked

These pads target drivers who want OEM-style refinement plus ceramic benefits—quiet stops, minimal dust, and reliable feel under spirited driving. They’re a smart match for conversion setups on sport sedans where pad profile and rotor clearance must be right.

Key Specs

  • OE-spec design for proper fit
  • Advanced friction material for stability at higher temps
  • Shims and chamfers to reduce noise and vibration
  • Supplied with installation hardware

Pros

  • Strong stopping feel with low noise
  • Engineered to reduce brake fade in mixed conditions
  • Includes hardware—good for conversion kits

Cons

  • Premium price tier
  • Ceramic material may not be ideal for constant heavy towing

Best For: Performance-oriented mixed drivers

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4. Bendix Priority1 CFM1277 Semi-Metallic Rear Brake Pads for Volkswagen Touareg 2006, Touareg 2010

Bendix Priority1 CFM1277 Semi-Metallic Rear Brake Pads for Volkswagen Touareg 2006, Touareg 2010
4.8/5 GarageGist Score · editorially ranked

A budget-friendly semi‑metallic pad that gives strong stopping power and high-temperature resistance—helpful when a conversion will see towing or regular heavy loads. Users note solid fit and quiet operation, plus minimal dust for a semi‑metallic option.

Key Specs

  • OE-matching fit for easy swap-in
  • Semi-metallic composition for higher thermal durability
  • Engineered to limit brake fade
  • Comes with installation hardware

Pros

  • Lower cost with dependable stopping power
  • Better heat resistance for towing or hills
  • Easy to install with included hardware

Cons

  • Slightly more brake dust than ceramic options
  • Some buyers debate long-term sturdiness

Best For: Budget builds and heavier duty use

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5. Bendix Priority1 CFC792HD Ceramic Rear Brake Pads for Select Models Cadillac DeVille, DTS, Chevrolet Astro, Silverado 1500, 1500 Classic, Suburban Tahoe, GMC Safari, Sierra Yukon, Yukon XL

Bendix Priority1 CFC792HD Ceramic Rear Brake Pads for Select Models Cadillac DeVille, DTS, Chevrolet Astro, Silverado 1500, 1500 Classic, Suburban Tahoe, GMC Safari, Sierra Yukon, Yukon XL
4.8/5 GarageGist Score · editorially ranked

Built for larger rear-disc conversions where pad contact area and heat control matter, these ceramic pads deliver quiet service and a stable pedal feel. They come with hardware and are repeatedly noted for clean fitment in larger GM applications.

Key Specs

  • OE-engineered replacement for large models
  • Advanced ceramic friction for quiet stops
  • Designed to reduce brake fade under load
  • Hardware included for installation

Pros

  • Solid fit for larger-caliper conversions
  • Quiet operation with low dust
  • Good balance for light towing and daily driving

Cons

  • Mid-range cost may be higher than basic options
  • Ceramic may be less ideal for constant heavy towing

Best For: Full-size conversions and light towing

Check Latest Price on Amazon

6. Bendix Priority1 CFM1907 Semi-Metallic Rear Brake Pads for Select Models Mercedes-Benz AMG GT 63, 63 S, C63 AMG, S63 S65 S65L

Bendix Priority1 CFM1907 Semi-Metallic Rear Brake Pads for Select Models Mercedes-Benz AMG GT 63, 63 S, C63 AMG, S63 S65 S65L
4.8/5 GarageGist Score · editorially ranked

A semi‑metallic pad intended for high-performance sedans and coupes, offering excellent thermal resistance and consistent stopping for spirited driving. It’s a strong choice if your conversion will see track days or aggressive mountain runs as well as street driving.

Key Specs

  • OE-matching fit for select AMG models
  • Semi-metallic material for high-temperature resilience
  • Engineered to minimize fade under performance use
  • Includes installation hardware

Pros

  • Good thermal durability for spirited driving
  • Consistent braking feel under stress
  • Includes hardware for easier installation

Cons

  • May produce more dust than ceramic pads
  • Mid-tier price vs basic budget options

Best For: Sporty conversions on performance cars

Check Latest Price on Amazon

7. Bendix Priority1 CFC1415 Rear Brake Pads for INFINITI EX35,EX37,FX35,G25,G37,JX35,M35h,M37,Q40,Q50,Q60,Q70,Q70L,QX50,QX60,QX70,Nissan 370Z,Altima,Juke,LEAF,Maxima,Murano,Pathfinder,Quest,Rogue,Sport

Bendix Priority1 CFC1415 Rear Brake Pads for INFINITI EX35,EX37,FX35,G25,G37,JX35,M35h,M37,Q40,Q50,Q60,Q70,Q70L,QX50,QX60,QX70,Nissan 370Z,Altima,Juke,LEAF,Maxima,Murano,Pathfinder,Quest,Rogue,Sport
4.8/5 GarageGist Score · editorially ranked

A budget ceramic option that matches OEM fit and delivers quiet, dust-reduced braking for everyday mixed driving. It's a practical pick for converters who want a straightforward, easy-to-install pad without premium pricing.

Key Specs

  • OE replacement specification for fit
  • Advanced ceramic friction for low dust
  • Engineered to maintain consistent braking
  • Hardware included (clips, grease)

Pros

  • Affordable ceramic choice with good fit
  • Quiet operation and low dust
  • Includes necessary installation hardware

Cons

  • Budget tier may compromise ultimate longevity under heavy use
  • Durability sometimes debated for high-mileage drivers

Best For: Budget-conscious daily drivers

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How to Choose the Right Product

How to Choose the Right Rear Brake Pads

When you’re converting a car from rear drums to discs, the pad you choose matters for clearance, pedal feel, and longevity. Start with fit and compatibility: pads engineered to OE dimensions reduce the chance of caliper-to-rotor interference after conversion. Check whether the pad kit includes installation hardware (clips, shims, grease); conversion jobs often require fresh hardware and a kit that includes it saves time and ensures proper caliper movement. Material choice is the next big decision. Ceramic pads give quiet operation, low dust, and a stable bite for daily mixed driving, while semi‑metallic pads typically offer better heat tolerance and durability for towing, heavy loads, or occasional spirited driving. If your conversion adds weight or you tow, favor semi‑metallic compounds with higher thermal resistance.

Noise and vibration control are critical in conversions — look for pads with shims, chamfers, or slots that reduce squeal. Also consider rotor compatibility: some pads are engineered for slotted or vented rotors and pair better with upgraded aftermarket rotors used in conversions. Corrosion resistance on backing plates and quality hardware matters if the car sees salted roads or sits outdoors. Finally, think about how you drive: frequent city commuting benefits from low-dust ceramics; mixed city/highway with occasional towing calls for mid-range semi‑metallics; performance driving leans toward performance semi‑metallics optimized for high temps.

Budget Tiers

Budget: Basic OE-style pads that hit the fundamentals—fit, acceptable stopping power, and most include hardware. Good for light-duty daily driving and cost-conscious projects. Mid-Range: Better friction materials, improved noise control, and often superior hardware—sweet spot for most conversion builds where mixed use is expected. Premium: Top ceramic or tuned compounds, best shim/noise packages, and refined stopping feel—ideal for converters who prioritize refinement and low dust over aggressive thermal capacity.

Which One Should You Choose?

If you want the best overall balance of fit, quiet, and low dust for a rear-disc conversion → choose Bendix Priority1 CFC2081 (B084DXZ27V). If budget is tight but you still need durability for towing and heavy use → pick the Bendix Priority1 CFM1277 semi‑metallic (B07CXBX87Q). If you want the best value mix of price and quiet ceramic performance → go with Bendix Priority1 CFC1498 (B01KHLEJTO).

Best for Specific Scenarios

  • Daily mixed commuting (city + highway): Bendix CFC2081 Ceramic because it offers quiet stops, low brake dust, and OE-style fit—good for clean, everyday use after a conversion.
  • Occasional towing or hill-country driving: Bendix CFM1277 Semi‑Metallic because semi‑metallic material handles higher temperatures and heavier loads better during prolonged braking.
  • Sporty street driving with conversion: Bendix CFM1907 Semi‑Metallic because it provides better thermal stability and consistent pedal feel under spirited use while still fitting OEM-style setups.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use ceramic pads after a drum-to-disc conversion?

Yes. Ceramic pads work well after conversions as long as they match the caliper/rotor dimensions and the kit includes proper hardware. They offer quiet operation and low dust for street-focused driving. For heavy towing or frequent high‑heat use, consider a semi‑metallic option instead.

Do I need new hardware when installing rear disc pads after a conversion?

You should replace or install fresh hardware. New clips, shims, and slide-pin grease ensure correct pad alignment and reduce noise and uneven wear—many kits reviewed include hardware to simplify conversion installs.

Which material lasts longer after a conversion: ceramic or semi‑metallic?

Semi‑metallic pads tend to resist higher temperatures and heavy use better, which can translate to longer life under towing or performance stress. Ceramics can last well in normal mixed-use driving but may wear faster under constant heavy loads.

How We Selected These Products

Our recommendations are based on data-driven analysis: we evaluated 75300+ products across 7930+ brands using a composite scoring system that weighs rating (40%), review volume (30%), price value (20%), and demand signals (10%). Every product is ranked by data, not opinions.

Reviewed by GarageGist Editorial Team

Our team analyzes thousands of products and real customer reviews to find the best options in every category. We use data, not opinions.

Last updated: June 11, 2026

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