A Guide to Replacing Brake Pads on Your 2013-2022 Buick Encore
Stop the squeal and improve your Encore's braking performance by choosing the right aftermarket pads.
- For most Buick Encore owners, a quality ceramic pad from brands like ACDelco, Bosch, or Wagner offers the best balance of quiet performance and low dust.
- When replacing pads, it is highly recommended to also replace the brake rotors to ensure proper performance and avoid vibration.
- Sticking caliper slide pins are a known issue; ensure they are cleaned and lubricated during the brake job to prevent premature pad wear.
- A high-pitched squeal is the first sign of wear; a grinding noise means you've waited too long and are likely damaging other brake components.
Is It Time for New Brake Pads?
Your Buick Encore will give you clear signs when the brake pads are wearing thin. The most common signal is a high-pitched squealing or chirping sound when you apply the brakes. This is caused by a small metal tab called a wear indicator. If you ignore the squeal, it will eventually turn into a harsh grinding noise, which means the pads are completely worn out and are damaging the brake rotors. Other signs include your car taking longer to stop, a vibrating brake pedal, or the vehicle pulling to one side when braking.
Known Issues: Rear Brake Noise and Sticking Calipers
Some early model year (around 2013) Buick Encores were subject to a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) for noise from the rear brakes on the first application, especially when backing up. This was due to the original pad material. Additionally, some owners have reported issues with sticking or frozen brake calipers, particularly on the rear wheels, which can cause pads to wear out very quickly and create a burning smell. During a brake job, it's crucial to clean and lubricate the caliper slide pins 🎬 Watch this step-by-step guide on replacing Buick Encore brake pads. to prevent this.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Brake Pads
When replacing your brake pads, you don't have to use expensive dealer parts. Aftermarket brands often provide equal or better performance for less money. They generally fall into three categories:
1. Economy Pads
These are the most affordable options, designed to get you back on the road safely without a big investment. They are a good choice for drivers on a tight budget or who do mostly low-speed city driving.
- Brands: Pronto, Total Stopping Solutions, Dynamic Friction (some lines).
- Pros: Low cost.
- Cons: May have a shorter lifespan, create more brake dust, and may not be as quiet as premium options.
2. OEM-Grade / Daily Driver Pads
This is the most popular category, offering a great balance of performance, low noise, and durability that meets or exceeds the original factory pads. Most are ceramic, which is what GM typically uses, known for being quiet and producing little dust. These are ideal for the vast majority of Encore owners.
- Brands: ACDelco (Gold/Professional), Bosch (QuietCast), Wagner (QuickStop), Raybestos (Element3), Akebono (ProACT).
- Pros: Quiet operation, low dust, long life, excellent stopping power for normal driving.
- Cons: Higher cost than economy pads.
Pro Tip: ACDelco is GM's own parts brand, so their Gold (formerly Professional) line is a safe bet for a factory-equivalent replacement. Bosch and Akebono are also major suppliers to automakers and are highly regarded for their quality.
🎬 See a review of the top-rated brake pads for 2025.3. Performance / Upgrade Pads
For those who want improved braking response, especially for towing or driving in hilly areas, a performance pad is a good upgrade. These pads are designed to handle higher temperatures and provide more stopping power.
- Brands: Powerstop (Z23 Evolution), EBC Brakes, Brembo, Hawk.
- Pros: Increased stopping power, better resistance to brake fade under heavy use.
- Cons: Can be more expensive, may create more dust and noise than ceramic daily driver pads, and can be slightly more aggressive on rotors.
How Much Does a Brake Pad Replacement Cost for a 2013-2022 Buick Encore?
The cost can vary depending on the parts you choose and labor rates in your area. A DIY replacement is very achievable for those with basic tools.
🎬 Learn how to properly bleed your brakes after a replacement.| Item | Estimated Cost |
|---|---|
| Aftermarket Brake Pad Set (Front or Rear) | $35 - $155 |
| Shop Labor | $100 - $200 per axle |
| Total Estimated Cost (One Axle) | $135 - $355 |
Note: This does not include the cost of replacing brake rotors, which is often recommended at the same time.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to replace my rotors with my pads?
It is highly recommended. New pads on a worn, uneven rotor surface can lead to noise, vibration, and reduced performance. If your rotors have deep grooves, a noticeable lip on the outer edge, or show signs of warping (vibration when braking), they should be replaced. Many brands like Powerstop offer convenient pad and rotor kits.
What's the difference between ceramic and semi-metallic pads?
Ceramic pads are the modern standard for most passenger cars like the Encore. They are quiet, produce very little dust, and are easy on the rotors. Semi-metallic pads have a higher metal content, which can offer better performance in extreme temperatures but at the cost of more noise, dust, and faster rotor wear. For a daily-driven Encore, ceramic is almost always the best choice.
Does my Buick Encore have electronic brake pad sensors?
Most 2013-2022 Buick Encore models use a simple mechanical wear indicator—a small metal tab that makes noise when the pad is low. However, some newer Encore GX models may be equipped with an electronic Brake Pad Life Monitor system that displays the remaining pad life in the driver information center. These use a sensor that must be replaced with the pads.
How long should brake pads last on a Buick Encore?
Lifespan depends heavily on your driving style. A typical range is 30,000 to 60,000 miles. If you do a lot of stop-and-go city driving, your pads will wear out faster than if you do mostly highway driving.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 17D1467CH
Most 2013-2022 Buick Encore models use a single-piston sliding caliper design for both front and rear disc brakes. The majority use a mechanical wear indicator, though some later model Encore GX trims may have electronic sensors. The recommended brake fluid is DOT 4.
We Have This Part in Stock
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.
- Buick Encore:
- 🎬 Helpful Videos
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Is It Time for New Brake Pads?
- Known Issues: Rear Brake Noise and Sticking Calipers
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Brake Pads
- 1. Economy Pads
- 2. OEM-Grade / Daily Driver Pads
- 3. Performance / Upgrade Pads
- How Much Does a Brake Pad Replacement Cost for a 2013-2022 Buick Encore?
- Frequently Asked Questions
- 🎟️ Get 5% Off