Brake Pads Guide
Best Brake Pads for the
2004 – 2009 Dodge Durango: Every Pad Compared
A complete comparison of brake pads for the 2004-2009 Dodge Durango — covering the 4.7L V8 and 5.7L Hemi. Ceramic, aramid fiber, and carbon options from PowerStop, Brembo, EBC, and Hawk. Stopping power, noise, dust, pricing, and fitment notes.
At a Glance
Quick Comparison
| Brand / Pad | Pad Material | Stopping Power | Noise | Performance Over Stock | Dust | Fits | Price | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| PowerStop Z16 Evolution | Ceramic | Low | — | Minimal | Low | 04–06 (front) |
|
SHOP → |
| PowerStop Z17 Evolution | Ceramic | Moderate | — | Minimal | Low | 04–06 (front) w/ hardware |
|
SHOP → |
| Brembo OE Premium | Ceramic | Moderate | Quiet | Moderate | Low | 03–06 (front) | $65 | SHOP → |
| Brembo OE Premium (rear) | Ceramic | Moderate | Quiet | Moderate | Low | 03–09 | $67 | SHOP → |
| EBC Ultimax2 | Aramid Fiber | Low | — | Minimal | Moderate | 04–06 (front) |
|
SHOP → |
| Hawk LTS | Carbon | Very Good | Quiet | Very Good | Moderate | All models (front) |
|
SHOP → |
Important
What to Know Before You Buy
Pad Compound: Ceramic vs Semi-Metallic
Ceramic pads produce less dust and are quieter; ideal for daily drivers and towing. Semi-metallic and carbon pads offer stronger bite and better heat resistance for performance use.
Dust vs Performance
Lower-dust pads (ceramic) often sacrifice some initial bite. High-performance pads like Hawk LTS produce more dust but deliver excellent stopping power and fade resistance for towing.
Front vs Rear
Many products are front-only or rear-only. The front axle does most of the braking work. Replace in pairs (both front or both rear). Match pad compound front and rear for balanced feel.
Bedding Procedure
New pads require a proper bedding procedure for optimal performance and longevity. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions: typically 6–10 moderate stops from 40–50 mph, then cool-down. Avoid hard braking for the first 200 miles.
PowerStop Z16 Evolution Ceramic Brake Pads (FRONT): Dodge Durango (04-06) / Ram 1500 (02)
The PowerStop Z16 Evolution Ceramic Brake Pads are the most affordable option in this guide. The ceramic compound delivers low dust and quiet operation. Ideal for Durango owners who want a solid OE replacement without breaking the bank.
Fits 2004–2006 Dodge Durango front axle. Also fits 2002 Ram 1500. PowerStop’s Z16 line is widely used for daily-driven trucks and SUVs. Does not include hardware; Z17 variant includes hardware for a few dollars more.
Pros
- Lowest price in this guide
- Low dust; ceramic compound
- Wide application coverage
Cons
- OE-level performance; front only
- 04–06 model years only
PowerStop Z17 Evolution Ceramic Brake Pads (FRONT): Dodge Durango (04-06) / Ram 1500 (02) w/ Hardware
The PowerStop Z17 Evolution Ceramic Brake Pads add hardware (clips, shims) to the Z16 formula. The ceramic compound delivers low dust and quiet operation. Includes everything needed for installation. Best value for owners who want a complete front pad replacement.
Fits 2004–2006 Dodge Durango front axle. Also fits 2002 Ram 1500. The Z17 line is PowerStop’s step up from Z16, with hardware included. Often on sale at FastHemis.
Pros
- Includes hardware; complete kit
- Low dust; ceramic compound
- Strong value for OE replacement
Cons
- OE-level performance; front only
- 04–06 model years only
Brembo OE Premium NAO Ceramic Brake Pad (FRONT): Dodge Ram 1500 (02-05) / Durango (03-06)
Brembo OE Premium NAO Ceramic pads are OE-equivalent replacements from the same brand that supplies many factory brake systems. NAO (Non-Asbestos Organic) ceramic compound delivers quiet operation and low dust. Ideal for owners who want OEM-quality replacement without the dealer markup.
Fits 2003–2006 Dodge Durango front axle. Also fits 2002–2005 Ram 1500. Brembo’s OE line is widely trusted for daily driving. Low dust keeps wheels cleaner than semi-metallic options.
Pros
- Brembo OE quality; low dust
- Quiet ceramic compound
- Strong value for OE replacement
Cons
- OE-level performance; front only
- 03–06 model years
EBC Ultimax2 Front Brake Pads: Dodge Durango (04-06) & Ram (02-05)
EBC Ultimax2 Front Brake Pads use an aramid fiber compound for quiet operation and low dust. Ultimax2 is EBC’s OE-plus line, offering a step up from basic replacements without the dust of performance pads. Ideal for daily-driven Durangos.
Fits 2004–2006 Dodge Durango front axle. Also fits 2002–2005 Ram. The aramid fiber compound is durable and produces moderate dust. Suitable for street use and light towing.
Pros
- Quiet operation; EBC reputation
- Aramid fiber compound
- Good value for OE-plus
Cons
- Moderate dust output
- 04–06 model years only
Hawk LTS Front Brake Pads: Durango / Dakota / Ram 2002 - 2011 (All Models)
Hawk LTS (Light Truck & SUV) Front Brake Pads are the best all-around pad in this guide. The carbon compound is specifically formulated for larger brake systems, delivering very good stopping power, excellent fade resistance, and long pad life. Ideal for towing and heavy use.
Fits 2002–2011 Dodge Durango (all models). Also fits Dakota and Ram. Hawk’s LTS compound handles the demands of trucks and SUVs better than car-oriented pads. Limited lifetime warranty.
Pros
- Best stopping power and fade resistance
- Designed for trucks/SUVs; towing capable
- Limited lifetime warranty
Cons
- Premium price
- Moderate dust output
Fitment Reference
Which Pads Fit Your Vehicle?
| Vehicle / Trim | PowerStop Z16 | PowerStop Z17 | Brembo OE | EBC Ultimax2 | Hawk LTS |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Durango 4.7L V8 | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Durango 5.7L Hemi | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
✓ = Confirmed • ✗ = Excluded • — = Not tested
PowerStop and Brembo front pads fit 04–06 (Z16/Z17) or 03–06 (Brembo). Hawk LTS fits all 2002–2011 Durango models.
Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Ceramic vs semi-metallic brake pads: which is best for my use?
Ceramic pads produce less dust and are quieter; ideal for daily drivers and towing. Semi-metallic and carbon pads offer stronger bite and better heat resistance. Hawk LTS is formulated specifically for trucks and SUVs.
Do ceramic pads produce less dust?
Yes. Ceramic pads typically produce significantly less dust than semi-metallic or performance pads. PowerStop Z16/Z17 and Brembo OE are low-dust options. Hawk LTS produces more dust as a trade-off for stopping power and fade resistance.
How do I bed in new brake pads?
Follow the manufacturer’s procedure. Typically: 6–10 moderate stops from 40–50 mph, then a cool-down period. Avoid hard braking for the first 200 miles. Proper bedding ensures optimal transfer layer and pad life.
When should I replace my brake pads?
Replace when the pad material reaches the wear indicator (squeal tab) or 3–4 mm thickness. Many vehicles have a dashboard warning. Inspect pads at each tire rotation. Replace in pairs (both front or both rear).
Will aftermarket pads void my warranty?
Modifying brakes may affect warranty coverage if a brake-related failure occurs. The Magnuson-Moss warranty act limits manufacturers from voiding unrelated warranties. Check with your dealer if concerned.
I use my Durango for towing. Which pad should I choose?
For towing, Hawk LTS is the best choice. The LTS compound is designed for large brake systems and heavy loads. It offers superior fade resistance compared to OE-level ceramic pads. PowerStop and Brembo OE are fine for light towing.
Ready to Upgrade Your Dodge Durango Brakes?
Compare all pads above, pick the right fit for your trim, and order with confidence. Need help? Contact us.
