Brake Pads

[dmonroe]

I am about to replace my front pads for the first time (40K miles) and wanted to know what type of pad to replace them with. My Lexus dealer sells organic pads for $69. Pep Boys sells ceramic pads for $45. NAPA sells semi-metallic pads for $49. Anybody have any experience?

[Don]

I'm not certain what type the RX's come with from the factory, but I'd find out what material the oem ones have by asking the dealership. Then consider the same material in another name brand pad. I've used Performance Friction carbon metalic pads in some of my vehicles and they have worked well. Good stopping ability, longevity, and not too bad at dusting. Just be certain not to get the race version. I doubt they have them for an SUV anyway.

Frankly, I'd avoid the dealer ones due to the high prices they frequently charge if for no other reason.

[GSLV6]

I'd personally avoid anything other than OE pads.  Having fitted fast road pads, carbon and ceramic pads to cars in the past, most have created more dust and much and not lasted as well as the OEM ones.  You need to be careful with some ceramic (sintered) pads as they can lead to premature brake disc wear depending on grade.  Avoid ones like the EBC Green pads (sometimes referred to as organic) unless you want to be changing them every few thou miles.  They have neither the stopping power nor longevity IME.  It's a big heavy car so don't skimp on the brakes.  I always replace mine with OEM.