Good question. Are the stock pads semi-metallic?

 

Good god... I have 30K miles, including over 100 autox runs and I'm still on the stock rotors/pads. Not sure what you are doing

FWIW, I have never heard anyone say anything negative about the Bobcats. (one of these days I'll actually install mine)

john

 

i'm siding with you... black soot from black carbon metallic brake pads seems so much more logical then black soot from a steel rotor.

 

No surprise in that department - seems nothing has changed in 20 years of dealing w/ Mazda parts departments - any well run parts dept should keep items like rotors in stock - that's just a no brainer.

It's good they are taking care of the problem. If this is a chronic problem Mazda shoudl issue a TSB and modify their pad composition.

 

Yeah, I have no idea if the iron component is from the rotors or perhaps metallic pads, or what percentage is metal vs. friction compound. That's why I assiduously avoided any conclusions Actually I mainly posted because I was surprised and had always thought the black gunk was mostly friction material.

But, I still do think a caliper measurement every 1000 miles or so might shed some light. I don't have the tool though. Maybe this is the excuse I need.

"Honey....? Can I buy some micro-calipers...? ?

 

I suspect it's too early for other companies to be making them. Yet. But after warranties expire and folks need to replace rotors now and then - I would definately go this route - I never put OE Mazda rotors on my 7s either. I'd look for a quality brand such as Bendix perhaps under a brand such as Beck Arnley. Mazda prices are a ripoff, little or no warranty, always have to be ordered... Stealerships are last resorts for wear parts like this in my book and something like rotors WILL have many options in the future...

I'm sure the usual suspects will have their usual fare of slotted this and groved that too... not my thing though.

At least most Mazdas are generally well made and last a long time. Heck their old 323 line ought to be in some hall of fame for longevity - one of the long lasting most bullet proof cars ever produced!

 

Any updates on this?

I just recently purchased an 04 with low miles, about 12,000 and noticed the black dust on the front rims. Back rims have a little but no where near whats on the front.

 

yes, we gave up on the rx8 because of brake dust and now we're happy with a Geo Metro.

 

Racing brake ET500 pads are my choice. Great feel low dust

Give em a try

 

Nice that you searched, but there are many more up to date threads on brakes.

 

this thread has laughable information.

of course brakes get used. you want to stop, dont you?