A Guide to Aftermarket Brake Pads for the 2008-2015 Land Rover LR2
Choosing the right aftermarket brake pads is crucial for maintaining the safety and performance of your LR2.
- The Electronic Parking Brake (EPB) must be put into 'Service Mode' before replacing the rear pads to avoid damaging the calipers.
- It is highly recommended to replace brake rotors and single-use wear sensors at the same time as the pads for a complete job.
- Premium aftermarket brands like Textar, Brembo, and Akebono can offer OEM-level or better performance.
- Common failure symptoms include squealing/grinding noises, a dashboard warning light, and a pulsating brake pedal.
Symptoms of Worn Brake Pads
Your LR2 will let you know when it's time for new brake pads. Ignoring these signs can lead to more expensive repairs. Common symptoms include a high-pitched squealing noise when you brake, which comes from a small metal indicator built into the pads. If you hear a grinding sound, it means the pads are completely worn out, and you are likely damaging the brake rotors. You might also notice a brake warning light on your dashboard, a pulsating or vibrating brake pedal, or a feeling that the vehicle takes longer to stop than it used to.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Brake Pads for Your LR2
When replacing brake pads, you don't have to buy original equipment (OE) from the dealer. Many aftermarket brands offer excellent quality, often from the same companies that supply Land Rover. Aftermarket pads come in different materials, mainly ceramic and semi-metallic, each with its own benefits.
Premium & OEM-Equivalent Brands
These brands are known for providing original equipment parts to manufacturers like Land Rover or for offering equivalent or superior performance. They are an excellent choice for owners who want to maintain the original feel and performance of their vehicle.
- Textar & Pagid: Both are part of the same parent company, TMD Friction, and are well-regarded OEM suppliers for many German brands. They are known for excellent stopping power but can produce some dust.
- Brembo: A top-tier brand famous for high-performance braking systems. Brembo pads are a solid choice for drivers who prioritize stopping power and performance.
- ATE: A German brand owned by Continental, known for quality and its low-dust ceramic pad options.
- Akebono: Praised by Land Rover owners for being quiet, producing very little dust, and being gentle on rotors. A great choice for daily driving.
Quality Mid-Range Brands
These brands offer a great balance of performance, durability, and price. They are a reliable choice for the average LR2 owner.
- Bosch: A major automotive parts supplier offering reliable, ECE R90 approved pads that provide OEM-like performance at a lower cost.
- Raybestos: A well-known and respected name in the aftermarket brake industry.
- Centric: Offers a wide range of brake parts, including high-carbon rotors and quality pads that are popular among enthusiasts.
Budget-Friendly Brands
For those on a tighter budget, these brands provide a functional and safe, if basic, option. They may not offer the same longevity, low-dust, or low-noise characteristics as premium brands.
- Dynamic Friction
- Wagner Brakes
- Pronto
- Total Stopping Solutions
A Note on the Electronic Parking Brake (EPB)
The 2008-2015 LR2 is equipped with an Electronic Parking Brake. When replacing the rear brake pads, the EPB must be put into a special 'Service Mode' or 'Maintenance Mode'. This retracts the electronic caliper piston. Failure to do this can damage the caliper. The procedure typically involves a sequence of actions with the ignition, accelerator pedal, and EPB switch. Some advanced DIYers may use a diagnostic tool to activate this mode.
🎬 Learn how to use a diagnostic tool for EPB maintenance.Known Issues, Recalls, and TSBs
There was a recall for a small number of 2012 LR2 models (NHTSA 12V-563) due to rear brake caliper bolts that may not have been tightened correctly, which could cause the caliper to detach. While this was a limited recall, it highlights the importance of proper torque and installation. Some owners have reported brake judder or vibration, which can be caused by uneven pad deposits on the rotors. Technical Service Bulletins (TSBs) have been issued for this, sometimes recommending a different pad material to resolve the issue.
Cost of Replacing Land Rover LR2 Brake Pads
| Part/Service | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Brake Pad Set (Front or Rear) | $21 - $120 |
| New OEM Brake Pad Set (Front or Rear) | $100 - $200+ |
| Shop Labor for Pad Replacement (per axle) | $150 - $300 |
| Brake Rotors (Often replaced with pads) | $50 - $150 each |
Note: Prices are estimates and can vary based on location, brand, and vehicle condition. It is often recommended to replace brake rotors at the same time as the pads for best performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to replace my brake rotors with the pads?
It is highly recommended. Installing new pads on old, worn rotors can lead to noise, vibration, and reduced braking performance. Most mechanics will suggest replacing pads and rotors together for a complete and reliable brake job.
What are brake pad wear sensors?
Your LR2 uses electronic wear sensors on its brake pads. When the pad material wears down to a certain point, the sensor makes contact with the rotor, completing a circuit and turning on a warning light on your dashboard. These sensors are typically single-use and should be replaced along with your brake pads.
🎬 See how to replace sensors and reset the brake light.How do I put the Electronic Parking Brake in Service Mode?
A common procedure for the LR2 and similar models involves turning the ignition on (without starting the engine), pressing and holding the EPB switch down, pressing the accelerator pedal to the floor for a few seconds, and then cycling the ignition off and on. You should see a message on the dash confirming it's in maintenance mode. Always consult a reliable service manual or video guide for the exact procedure for your vehicle, as failure to do it correctly can damage the calipers.
🎬 Watch this video to see the manual EPB service mode sequence.What's the difference between ceramic and semi-metallic pads for my LR2?
Ceramic pads are known for being quiet, producing less brake dust (keeping your wheels cleaner), and offering a smooth pedal feel. Semi-metallic pads often provide a stronger initial bite and can handle higher temperatures, making them good for heavier use, but they can be noisier and create more dust. For most LR2 owners doing daily driving, a quality ceramic pad like Akebono is an excellent choice.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: LR004936 LR153546 LR072544 LR061394
The Land Rover LR2 uses single-piston floating calipers. The front pads are equipped with an electronic wear sensor on the left side. The rear brakes feature an Electronic Parking Brake (EPB) integrated into the caliper, which requires a special procedure for service.
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The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
- Land Rover LR2:
- 🎬 Helpful Videos
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Symptoms of Worn Brake Pads
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Brake Pads for Your LR2
- Premium & OEM-Equivalent Brands
- Quality Mid-Range Brands
- Budget-Friendly Brands
- A Note on the Electronic Parking Brake (EPB)
- Known Issues, Recalls, and TSBs
- Cost of Replacing Land Rover LR2 Brake Pads
- Frequently Asked Questions
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