Looking for an upgrade from your OEM brake pads? Raybestos Element3 brake pads promise improved stopping power, low noise, and extended wear life—all without breaking the bank. But do they really deliver on that promise?
In this detailed review, we break down how Raybestos Element3 brake pads perform in real-world driving, what sets them apart from competitors, and whether they’re worth putting on your car.
Quick Overview: What Are Raybestos Element3 Brake Pads?
Raybestos Element3 pads are premium hybrid-ceramic brake pads designed for daily driving and light-duty performance applications. They’re part of Raybestos’ professional-grade lineup and positioned above their service-grade options but below full race-grade pads.
Raybestos claims Element3 combines the best traits of ceramic and semi-metallic materials for:
- Improved stopping performance
- Reduced brake fade
- Quiet operation
- Cleaner wheels (less dust)
- Longer pad and rotor life
The pads are engineered with their exclusive **Enhanced Hybrid Technology (EHT)**, and many kits come with premium hardware and multi-layer shims pre-installed.
Who Are These Pads Made For?
Raybestos Element3 pads are built for drivers who want OE-level or better performance without resorting to track-oriented parts.
They’re ideal if you:
- Drive daily in mixed urban and highway conditions
- Own a truck, SUV, or crossover that tows occasionally
- Want clean wheels and quiet operation
- Expect longer lifespan from your brake components
They are **not designed for** aggressive racing or track-day usage, though they perform well under moderate spirited driving.
Performance Breakdown
1. Braking Power
Element3 pads deliver strong initial bite and smooth, consistent stopping under normal conditions. They outperform basic ceramic pads in emergency stops and repeated braking situations, making them a solid choice for heavier vehicles or commuters facing stop-and-go traffic.
Cold performance: Excellent. The pads don’t require warm-up to bite effectively, which makes them safe in early morning drives.
Fade resistance: Strong. Even during downhill braking or moderate towing, Element3 resists fade much better than cheap pads.
2. Noise and Vibration
Noise levels are minimal—even under hard stops. Raybestos includes **integrated multi-layer noise-dampening shims** that prevent squeal, while the hybrid compound naturally runs quieter than metallic pads.
Vibration is practically nonexistent when installed with clean rotors and proper lubrication. Most users report whisper-quiet operation, even after 20,000+ miles.
3. Dust and Cleanliness
Dust output is low, thanks to the ceramic content in the hybrid formula. Compared to traditional semi-metallic pads, wheels stay noticeably cleaner.
Bonus: The dust is light-colored and doesn’t stick aggressively, making cleanup easier during washes.
4. Pad and Rotor Wear
One of Element3’s strong suits is balanced pad and rotor wear. The hybrid formula avoids eating through rotors like more aggressive metallic pads, while still offering respectable longevity.
Real-world users report **40,000 to 70,000 miles** of pad life depending on driving style and vehicle type. Rotor life is typically preserved better than with economy-grade pads.
Installation Experience
Installation is straightforward and DIY-friendly. Most Element3 kits include:
- Pre-installed shims
- Stainless steel abutment clips
- Anti-rattle hardware (on supported models)
Fitment is accurate, and there’s minimal need for sanding or trimming. Just make sure to follow standard brake service practices: clean the caliper bracket, apply brake grease, and torque everything to spec.
Important tip: Always bed in the pads after installation. Raybestos recommends a series of 5–6 moderate stops from 40 mph to 10 mph, followed by cool-down driving to set the material properly.
Raybestos Element3 vs. Other Popular Brake Pads
| Brake Pad | Material | Best For | Dust | Noise | Price Range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Raybestos Element3 | Hybrid Ceramic | Daily driving, light towing | Low | Very low | $$ |
| Wagner ThermoQuiet | Ceramic | Quiet, clean operation | Very low | Low | $$ |
| PowerStop Z23 Evolution | Ceramic + Carbon Fiber | Performance street use | Medium | Moderate | $$$ |
| Akebono ProACT | Advanced Ceramic | Luxury cars, noise-free braking | Very low | Minimal | $$$ |
| Duralast Gold | Semi-Metallic | Economy + heavy-duty stopping | High | Moderate | $ |
Bottom line: Element3 sits nicely in the middle—it balances performance, comfort, and price better than most pads in its category.
Real Owner Reviews
Here’s what actual drivers are saying about Raybestos Element3 brake pads:
“I’ve used these on my F-150 and my wife’s SUV—zero noise, excellent stopping power, and they last. I’ll keep buying them.” – Mike R., Chicago
“Way quieter than the factory pads on my Accord. Even the installer said they were impressive quality.” – Jenna T., Austin
“40,000 miles in and still going strong. Minimal dust and great pedal feel.” – Dave P., Denver
Negative reviews are rare but typically mention:
- Price being slightly higher than standard ceramic options
- Occasional squeaks if not bedded in correctly
Pros and Cons Summary
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Strong, fade-resistant stopping power | Slightly pricier than budget ceramics |
| Low noise and minimal vibration | Requires proper bed-in to avoid early squeaks |
| Low dust for cleaner wheels | Not suitable for aggressive track use |
| Extended pad and rotor life | Availability may vary by vehicle |
| Includes hardware for easier install | Limited color/branding appeal for enthusiasts |
Should You Buy Raybestos Element3 Brake Pads?
Yes—if you’re looking for a reliable, high-performing brake pad for everyday driving, Element3 is one of the best values in the mid-premium category.
They’re especially ideal for:
- SUVs, trucks, or crossovers that need solid stopping under load
- Commuters looking for quiet, clean performance
- DIYers who want premium pads with hardware included
If you want track-level braking or are building a performance car, you may need something more aggressive. But for 95% of drivers, Raybestos Element3 delivers excellent safety and comfort in a well-rounded package.
Conclusion
Raybestos Element3 brake pads strike the perfect balance between comfort, performance, and value. With strong stopping power, low dust, and quiet operation, they’re a smart upgrade over basic ceramics or factory pads.
Looking to make your next brake job smoother and longer-lasting? Give Raybestos Element3 a serious look—they just might be the last pads you’ll want to switch to.