Choosing the Right Aftermarket Brake Pads for Your 2009-2013 INFINITI FX50
Your high-performance FX50 needs the right brake pads for safe, quiet, and powerful stopping.
- The INFINITI FX50's original brake pads are high-quality, and Akebono is a top aftermarket choice for matching that performance, quietness, and low-dust characteristic.
- For daily driving, a premium ceramic pad from a brand like Akebono, Bosch, or Centric offers the best balance of performance and comfort.
- If you desire higher performance for spirited driving, consider brands like Hawk, EBC, or StopTech, but expect a potential increase in dust and noise.
- There are no specific brake pad recalls for the 2009-2013 FX50, but some owners have experienced noise and faster-than-expected rear pad wear.
Signs Your FX50 Brake Pads Are Failing
Your INFINITI FX50 is equipped with large, capable brakes, but the pads are wear items that need regular replacement. Ignoring the signs of worn pads can lead to more expensive repairs, like rotor damage. Watch for these common symptoms:
- Squealing or Grinding Noises: A high-pitched squeal when you brake is often the first sign. This sound comes from a small metal tab called a wear indicator, which is designed to alert you that the pads are thin. If you hear a harsher grinding sound, it means the pad material is completely gone, and metal is grinding against metal. This is a serious issue that requires immediate attention.
- Vibrations or Pulsing: If you feel a pulsing or vibration through the brake pedal or steering wheel when you brake, your brake rotors may be warped. This can happen when worn pads overheat the rotors.
- Longer Stopping Distances: If your FX50 takes longer to stop than it used to, or the brake pedal feels soft and spongy, the pads may be too worn to create enough friction.
- Brake Warning Light: An illuminated brake warning light on your dashboard is a clear signal to have your braking system inspected immediately.
Known Issues for the INFINITI FX50
While no specific recalls exist for the 2009-2013 FX50's brake pads, some owners have reported issues with premature rear pad wear and brake noise. An INFINITI Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) addresses general issues like brake noise, judder, and pedal feel, providing diagnostic guidance. Some noises, like a slight squeak when cold, are considered normal. However, persistent noise could indicate a problem with pad installation or material.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Brake Pads
The INFINITI FX50 came from the factory with high-quality brake components, often supplied by Akebono. When choosing aftermarket pads, you're not necessarily sacrificing quality. Many aftermarket brands offer pads that meet or exceed original equipment (OE) specifications. Your choice depends on your budget and driving style.
Brand Tiers for Your FX50
OEM-Equivalent / Premium Daily Driver Brands:
- Akebono: As a likely original equipment manufacturer for Infiniti, Akebono pads are a top choice for restoring factory performance. They are known for being quiet, producing very little dust, and offering excellent stopping power for daily driving.
- Bosch: Bosch offers quality ceramic pads, like their QuietCast line, that provide a good balance of performance, low noise, and durability.
- Centric Posi-Quiet: These are a popular aftermarket choice, offering performance comparable to OEM pads with a focus on low dust and noise. They provide good value for daily driving.
- Wagner Brakes / Raybestos: These are well-established brands that provide reliable, OE-quality replacement pads suitable for everyday use.
Pro Tip: For most FX50 owners, a premium ceramic pad from a brand like Akebono or Bosch will provide the best combination of quiet operation, low dust, and confident stopping power for daily use.
Performance / Enthusiast Brands:
- Hawk Performance: Hawk offers several compounds, from street performance pads that offer a better bite than stock to more aggressive pads for track use. Be aware that higher-performance pads may create more dust and noise.
- EBC Brakes: EBC provides a range of pads like their Redstuff (ceramic, low dust) and Yellowstuff (high-performance street) lines, allowing you to choose based on your performance needs.
- StopTech: A division of Centric, StopTech offers sport-focused pads that are an upgrade over stock for spirited driving.
- Brembo: Known for high-performance braking systems, Brembo also offers replacement pads that provide excellent stopping power, though they can be more expensive and produce more dust than daily-driver pads.
- PowerStop: PowerStop offers kits like the Z23 Evolution Sport which include carbon-fiber ceramic pads designed as a performance upgrade over stock, focusing on increased power and low dust.
Aftermarket Brake Pad Cost for 2009-2013 INFINITI FX50
| Pad Type | Price Range (Front or Rear Set) | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Economy | $25 - $50 | Basic transportation, budget-focused |
| OEM-Equivalent / Daily Driver | $50 - $120 | Most drivers, balances performance, noise, and dust |
| Performance Street | $120 - $325 | Enthusiasts, spirited driving, improved stopping power |
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to replace my rotors at the same time as my pads?
It is highly recommended. While not always strictly necessary, installing new pads on worn or warped rotors can cause noise, vibration, and reduced pad life. For the best performance and safety, replacing pads and rotors together is the best practice. Most mechanics recommend this, and many performance pad manufacturers require new or resurfaced rotors for their warranty.
What is the difference between ceramic and semi-metallic pads for my FX50?
Ceramic pads, like the Akebono Pro-ACT, are known for being very quiet and producing minimal, light-colored dust. They offer great performance for daily driving. Semi-metallic pads can sometimes offer a stronger initial "bite" and handle very high temperatures well, but they are typically noisier and produce more dark-colored dust than ceramic pads.
Why are my new brakes making noise?
New brakes may make some noise during the "bed-in" period as the pad material transfers a thin layer onto the rotor. However, persistent squealing could be due to improper installation, lack of lubrication on contact points, or the specific compound of a high-performance pad. Ensure all hardware like shims and clips were installed correctly.
How often should I replace my FX50's brake pads?
There is no set interval; it depends entirely on your driving style and conditions. Pad life can range from 25,000 to over 50,000 miles. Some owners report rear pads wearing faster than fronts. Regular inspection is the best way to know when replacement is needed.
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: D1060-JL00J
The 2009-2013 INFINITI FX50 is typically equipped with large, multi-piston front brake calipers (often made by Akebono) that require a specific pad shape. The most common aftermarket pad material is ceramic, which balances performance, noise, and dust. Performance-oriented pads may use carbon-fiber ceramic or semi-metallic compounds.
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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.
- INFINITI FX50: