Choosing the Right Aftermarket Brake Pads for Your 2013-2025 Volvo V60
Stop the guesswork and find the best replacement brake pads for your V60's specific needs and budget.
- Vibration (judder) is a common complaint with factory pads; switching to an aftermarket brand like Akebono or ATE can be a permanent fix.
- You must know your V60's brake rotor diameter (e.g., 322mm, 345mm) before ordering new pads to ensure they fit.
- Replacing rear pads requires an electronic tool to put the parking brake in service mode; this is not a simple mechanical job.
- Brands like ATE, Textar, and Pagid are often the OEM suppliers, offering dealer quality without the dealer price tag.
Signs of Worn Brake Pads on a Volvo V60
Your V60 will give you clear warnings when it's time for new brake pads. Ignoring these signs can lead to more expensive repairs, like needing to replace the brake rotors. Be aware of the following 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. If you hear a deeper, harsher grinding noise, it means the pads are completely worn down and metal is grinding against metal, which can quickly damage your rotors.
- Vibration or Pulsing: If you feel a shudder or pulse through the brake pedal or steering wheel when you slow down, it can be a sign of uneven pad material on the rotors. Some V60 owners have reported this issue with original factory pads, making it a known problem to watch for.
- Longer Stopping Distances: If your wagon takes longer to stop than it used to, your brake pads may be too thin to create the necessary friction. This is a serious safety concern.
- Brake Warning Light: Newer V60 models are equipped with electronic brake pad wear sensors that will trigger a warning light on your dashboard when the pads are low.
Known Issues and Recalls
Brake Judder/Vibration: Some owners of 2019 and newer V60s have experienced premature brake vibration, sometimes as early as 20,000 miles. This is often caused by an uneven transfer of pad material onto the brake rotors. While dealers have sometimes replaced rotors under warranty, the issue can return if the same pad compound is used. Switching to a different aftermarket pad brand can often solve this problem permanently.
Software Recalls: Volvo has issued software-related brake recalls for some models, including the 2023 and 2024-2025 V60. One recall for 2023 models involved a diagnostic error in the Brake Control Module (BCM) that could disable ABS and ESC. Another urgent recall for 2024-2025 plug-in hybrid (PHEV) models could cause a loss of braking after extended coasting in certain drive modes. These are fixed with a free software update from a dealer or over-the-air and are not related to the physical brake pads themselves.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Brake Pads
When shopping for aftermarket brake pads, it's helpful to understand that "aftermarket" doesn't mean lower quality. Many aftermarket companies are the original equipment (OE) suppliers to Volvo. You can often get the exact same quality part without the dealer markup.
Pad Material: Ceramic vs. Semi-Metallic
The two most common types of brake pads for your V60 are ceramic and semi-metallic.
- Semi-Metallic: This is what your V60 likely came with from the factory. They offer consistent stopping power across a wide range of temperatures, from a cold morning start to heavy braking. The main downside is that they produce more brake dust, which can make your wheels dirty.
- Ceramic: These are a popular upgrade for drivers who want clean wheels. Ceramic pads produce very little dust and are very quiet. Some drivers find they have a less aggressive initial "bite" when cold compared to semi-metallic pads. High-quality ceramic pads from reputable brands offer excellent performance.
Pro Tip: Check Your Rotor Size
Volvo used several different brake sizes on the V60 across different years and trim levels (e.g., T5, T6, Polestar). Common front rotor sizes include 296mm, 316mm, 322mm, 345mm, and larger for Polestar models. It is critical to know your car's specific rotor diameter before ordering to ensure you get pads that fit correctly. You can often find this information on a sticker in your door jamb or by measuring the rotor directly.
Brand Tiers for Your Volvo V60
Here’s a breakdown of trusted brands based on owner feedback and their position in the market:
| Tier | Brands | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| OE-Equivalent & Premium | ATE, Textar, Pagid, Brembo, Zimmermann | Drivers who want to match or exceed the performance of the original factory pads. ATE, Textar, and Pagid are often the original suppliers to Volvo. Brembo and Zimmermann are also highly regarded for quality. |
| Low-Dust / Daily Driver | Akebono, Bosch QuietCast | The daily commuter who values clean wheels and quiet operation. Akebono ceramic pads are frequently recommended by Volvo owners to solve issues with brake dust and have a long life. Bosch is another solid choice. |
| Performance / Enthusiast | EBC Brakes, Powerstop, StopTech, Brembo (Performance lines) | Drivers who want a more aggressive bite and improved fade resistance for spirited driving. Powerstop offers popular kits, though opinions can be mixed. EBC offers different compounds for various uses. |
| Standard / Budget-Friendly | Centric, Dynamic Friction, Raybestos, Wagner | Affordable, reliable replacements for normal driving conditions. These brands provide safe, dependable stopping power that meets federal standards without the higher cost of premium lines. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I have to replace my brake rotors at the same time as the pads?
It is highly recommended. Installing new pads on old, worn rotors can cause noise, vibration, and reduced pad life. If your rotors have a significant lip on the edge, or show signs of heavy scoring or discoloration, they must be replaced. For the best performance and to avoid vibration issues common on the V60, always install new pads and rotors together.
How difficult is it to change the brake pads on a V60?
For a DIY mechanic with some experience, the job is manageable. The front brakes are straightforward. 🎬 Watch a complete brake replacement guide for 2011-2018 V60 models. However, V60 models are equipped with an electronic parking brake (EPB) on the rear wheels. To replace the rear pads, the EPB must be put into "service mode" using a compatible diagnostic tool. 🎬 See a step-by-step walkthrough for replacing Volvo V60 rear brake pads. While there are manual methods to retract the piston, they are not recommended as they can damage the caliper motor.
🎬 Learn how to handle the electronic parking brake during DIY service.What is the difference between OEM and Genuine Volvo pads?
"Genuine Volvo" parts come in a Volvo-branded box and are what you'd get from a dealer. "OEM" (Original Equipment Manufacturer) parts are made by the same company that supplies Volvo, but sold in their own packaging (e.g., ATE, Textar). You get the same quality part, often for a lower price.
My V60 is a Polestar model. Do I need special pads?
Yes. Polestar and Polestar Engineered models are equipped with high-performance Brembo brake systems from the factory. They use larger rotors and specific pad compounds designed for higher temperatures and performance driving. You must purchase pads specifically listed for your Polestar model to ensure safety and proper fit.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 32438067 32373125 32373178 32373181 31400528 31445976 31476723 31499906 32373126 32373197
Brake system varies by trim and year. Common front rotor sizes are 296mm, 316mm, 322mm, and 345mm. Rear brakes feature an electronic parking brake (EPB). Pad material is typically semi-metallic from the factory. Polestar models use a unique Brembo brake system.
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.
- Volvo V60: