Regarding high-performance brake pads, the PowerStop Z16 and Z17 are two popular options in the market. However, PowerStop Z17 has a more advanced setup and composition than Z16.
If you are searching for the best brake pads for your car, then PowerStop Z16 and Z17 will entice you.
These brake pads offer excellent stopping power and improved braking performance, but some differences set them apart.
Here is a quick comparison chart highlighting the key specifications of PowerStop Z16 and Z17 brake pads.
Quick Comparison Table
| Specifications | PowerStop Z16 | PowerStop Z17 |
| Composition | Carbon-Fiber Ceramic Technology | Ceramic Technology and Stainless Steel Shim |
| Stopping Power | Low Stopping Power | High Stopping Power |
| Noise and Dust | General Noise and Dust Reduction System | Specialized Noise and Dust Reduction Formula |
| Environmental | Comparatively Low Eco-Friendly Features | Better Eco-Friendly Components |
| Pad Life | Better Pad Life | Comparatively Low Pad Life |
| Price | Affordable | Expensive |
Key Differences Between PowerStop Z16 And Z17 Brake Pads
The above comparison chart gave you a brief idea about the prime specifications of PowerStop Z16 and Z17. It’s time to identify the key features of PowerStop Z16 and Z17.
- Composition
The PowerStop Z16 brake pads are designed for high-performance cars, trucks, and SUVs.
These pads are made using carbon fiber-infused ceramic technology, which provides superior stopping power and extended pad life.
The ceramic formula also reduces dust and noise, making them a popular choice for daily drivers who want a cleaner, quieter braking experience.
Like the Z16, the PowerStop Z17 brake pads are also made using carbon fiber-infused ceramic technology.
However, they are designed to offer even better braking performance than the Z16.
These pads have a higher coefficient of friction, which means they can stop your vehicle more quickly and efficiently.
In addition to the advanced ceramic formula, the PowerStop Z17 brake pads also feature stainless steel shim technology, which helps to reduce noise and vibration.
They also have a powder-coated backing plate, which helps to prevent corrosion and ensures a longer pad life.
Also Read: Differences Between Callahan And PowerStop Brakes.
- Stopping Power
When it comes to stopping power, the PowerStop Z17 brake pads are the clear winner.
They have a higher friction coefficient, meaning they can stop your vehicle more quickly and efficiently than the Z16 pads.
While the Z16 pads also offer excellent stopping power, they cannot match the performance of the Z17s.
- Dust Resistance
Both the PowerStop Z16 and Z17 brake pads are designed to reduce noise and dust, thanks to their carbon fiber-infused ceramic technology.
However, the Z17 pads take it a step further with their Evolution ceramic formula, specifically designed to reduce noise and dust even more.
If you’re looking for a cleaner, quieter braking experience, the Z17 pads are the better choice.
- Noise and Vibration
One crucial factor to consider when choosing brake pads is the amount of noise and vibration they produce.
The PowerStop Z16 and Z17 pads are designed to produce minimal noise and vibration during normal driving conditions.
However, the Z17 pads are engineered with a powder-coated backing plate and a noise-dampening shim that further reduces noise and vibration, making them a good choice for drivers who value a quiet and comfortable driving experience.
- Installation
Both the PowerStop Z16 and Z17 brake pads are designed to be easy to install and require no special tools or equipment.
They come with all the necessary hardware and instructions, making it a simple process for most drivers to install them themselves.
However, if you need more time to get comfortable working on your brakes, it’s always recommended to have a professional mechanic handle the installation.
- Compatibility
The PowerStop Z16 and Z17 brake pads are compatible with various vehicles, including cars, trucks, and SUVs.
However, you must ensure that the brake pads you choose are specifically designed to fit your vehicle’s make and model.
The PowerStop website has a convenient tool that allows you to enter your vehicle’s information to find suitable brake pads for your vehicle.
- Driving Style
Another factor to consider when choosing between the PowerStop Z16 and Z17 brake pads is your driving style.
If you do a lot of high-performance driving, such as racing or aggressive driving, the Z17 pads may be the better choice due to their advanced ceramic formula and higher coefficient of friction.
However, if you primarily drive in city traffic or do a lot of highway driving, the Z16 pads may be the better choice due to their longer pad life.
- Pad Life
PowerStop Z16 and Z17 brake pads have excellent pad life thanks to their high-quality materials and advanced technology.
However, the Z16 pads may last slightly longer than the Z17s, thanks to their thermal scorched pad surface.
This feature helps remove any impurities from the pad surface, ensuring a consistent and smooth finish and extending the pad’s life.
- Brand Reputation
While both the PowerStop Z16 and Z17 brake pads offer excellent stopping power, the Z17 pads are designed to stop your vehicle more quickly and efficiently.
This can be especially important in emergencies, where every inch of braking distance can make a difference.
If you want the best possible braking performance, the Z17 pads are the way to go.
- Warranty
The PowerStop Z16 and Z17 brake pads come with a limited warranty, covering defects in materials and workmanship.
The exact length and terms of the warranty may vary depending on the retailer, so it’s essential to read the warranty information carefully before making your purchase.
- Price
The PowerStop Z16 and Z17 brake pads are both priced similarly, making them an affordable option for drivers who want high-performance brake pads without breaking the bank.
However, the Z17 pads are slightly more expensive due to their advanced ceramic formula and powder-coated backing plate.
The exact price difference may vary depending on the make and model of your vehicle, but in general, you can expect to pay around 10-20% more for the Z17 pads than the Z16s.
Which Brake Pad To Choose?
PowerStop Z17 brake pads lead the race against Z16 and dominate the maximum segment of this discussion.
PowerStop Z17 combines exceptional components, an easy installation process, advanced features, and a high-performance driving style to produce the best products.
Moreover, PowerStop Z17 has a specialized noise and dust resistance system that ensures top-notch comfort.
Pad life and price are the two drawbacks of PowerStop Z17. However, the premium components and sleek designs justify the price range of Z17.
Overall, PowerStop Z17 ticks all the boxes to be the best option for your car’s brake.
Also Read: Differences Between PowerStop Z17 And Z23 Brake Pads.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Yes, PowerStop has a great reputation for providing the best brake parts with high durability.
Z23 brake pads are better than Z26 due to their Carbon-FIber ceramic formula that offers excellent dust-free performance.
Ceramic brake pads offer the best stopping power.
Arvin Scott is the founder of PowerStop, a company that provides car-related services.
Conclusion
PowerStop Z17 is the clear winner in this comparison of PowerStop Z16 and Z17 brake pads. Combining advanced components, high noise, dust resistance, and better stopping power makes Z17 unique.
Therefore, if you can manage your budget, then you should select PowerStop Z17 for a better experience.
