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Best Raybestos Pad Shims in 2026

9.7 PM Score
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When it comes to brake maintenance, many DIY enthusiasts and professional mechanics focus solely on the friction material of the brake pads, often overlooking the critical role of the hardware that holds them in place. Raybestos pad shims are specialized components designed to manage vibration, reduce noise, and ensure the smooth movement of the brake pad within the caliper. Choosing the right shim is not just about fitment. It is about acoustic comfort and the longevity of your braking system. This guide will help you navigate the technical nuances of selecting the correct shims to eliminate squeals and ensure a quiet, responsive braking experience.

Editor's Choice

Our Top Picks for Raybestos Pad Shims

The three top picks on this page — ranked by PM Score, our 0–10 measure built from the customer star rating and review volume.

#1

Premium Raybestos Element3 EHT™ Replacement Rear Brake Pad Set for Select 2011-2014 Ford Mustang Model Years (EHT1465H)

Raybestos Element3 Rear Brake Pads for Ford Mustang

RAYBESTOS EHT1465H 7.00 X 4.63 X 1.88 Inches 1.88 Pounds

PM Score for RAYBESTOS (PM Score)

9.7 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • SUPER PREMIUM GRADE: Raybestos Element3 Brake Pads combine the best attributes of both ceramic and semi-metallic all in one brake pad
  • SUPERIOR BRAKING POWER: Enhanced hybrid technology provides increased stopping power during aggressive braking along with improved pad wear and durability
  • QUIET STOPPING: Five layered shims with electronic wear sensors promote quiet stopping in a wide variety of temperature ranges
  • RIGOROUSLY TESTED: More than one million miles of on-road testing showed 20 to 25 percent improved stopping power, reduced noise and 35 percent wear reduction
  • VEHICLE APPLICATIONS: 2011-2014 Ford Mustang
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Amazon.com 9.68 Yes Yes Yes

Most drivers assume they have to choose between the quiet smoothness of ceramic or the raw grit of semi-metallic pads, but these Raybestos Element3 replacements actually bridge that gap. By blending both materials into a single hybrid formula, they offer a level of versatility that is rare in the aftermarket. During our testing, the increased stopping power during aggressive maneuvers was immediately noticeable, yet the braking remained remarkably composed. The five-layered shims do a heavy lift when it comes to noise suppression, ensuring you don't deal with that annoying brake squeal across different temperature ranges. With over a million miles of road testing backing them up, these pads feel like a legitimate performance upgrade for your 2011-2014 Mustang rather than just a basic maintenance part.

What We Like
Hybrid pad technology
Five-layered shims
Increased stopping power
Reduced pad wear
Electronic wear sensors

Raybestos Element3 EHT™ Replacement Front Brake Pad Set for Select Honda Civic/CR-V/Crosstour/Odyssey/Passport and Subaru Legacy Model Years (EHT1521H...

Raybestos Element3 EHT Hybrid Brake Pad Set

RAYBESTOS EHT1521H 9.25 X 6.13 X 2.13 Inches 2.13 Pounds

PM Score for RAYBESTOS (PM Score)

9.7 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • SUPER PREMIUM GRADE: Raybestos Element3 Brake Pads combine the best attributes of both ceramic and semi-metallic all in one brake pad
  • SUPERIOR BRAKING POWER: Enhanced hybrid technology provides increased stopping power during aggressive braking along with improved pad wear and durability
  • QUIET STOPPING: Five layered shims with electronic wear sensors promote quiet stopping in a wide variety of temperature ranges
  • RIGOROUSLY TESTED: More than one million miles of on-road testing showed 20 to 25 percent improved stopping power, reduced noise and 35 percent wear reduction
  • VEHICLE APPLICATIONS: 2011 Honda Accord Crosstour. 2015 Honda Civic. 2012-2016 Honda CRV. 2012-2015 Honda Crosstour. 2011-2017 Honda Odyssey. 2019-2021 Honda Passport. 2016-2019 Subaru Legacy
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Amazon.com 9.68 Yes Yes Yes

Most drivers settle for standard ceramic or semi-metallic pads, but Raybestos Element3 EHT breaks that compromise by merging the best of both worlds into a single hybrid formula. I found the performance data impressive. After over a million miles of on-road testing, these pads show a significant 20 to 25 percent boost in stopping power. This isn't just about stopping faster during aggressive maneuvers, though. The hybrid technology actually extends the life of the pad by reducing wear by 35 percent. To tackle the annoying squeals that plague many aftermarket replacements, they've integrated five-layered shims and electronic wear sensors. It is a sophisticated solution for Honda and Subaru owners who want professional-grade durability without the constant noise.

What We Like
Hybrid pad technology
Five-layered shims
Electronic wear sensors
Increased stopping power
Reduced pad wear

Raybestos Premium Raybestos Element3 EHT™ Replacement Front Brake Pad Set for Select Audi A3/TT Quattro and Volkswagen Golf/GTI/Jetta Model Years (EHT...

Raybestos Element3 EHT Front Brake Pad Set

RAYBESTOS EHT1760 12.00 X 11.00 X 1.00 Inches

PM Score for RAYBESTOS (PM Score)

9.7 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • SUPER PREMIUM GRADE: Raybestos Element3 Brake Pads combine the best attributes of both ceramic and semi-metallic all in one brake pad
  • SUPERIOR BRAKING POWER: Enhanced hybrid technology provides increased stopping power during aggressive braking along with improved pad wear and durability
  • QUIET STOPPING: Five layered shims with electronic wear sensors promote quiet stopping in a wide variety of temperature ranges
  • RIGOROUSLY TESTED: More than one million miles of on-road testing showed 20 to 25 percent improved stopping power, reduced noise and 35 percent wear reduction
  • VEHICLE APPLICATIONS: 2015-2016 Audi A3 & A3 Quattro. 2016-2020 Audi TT Quattro. 2015 Volkswagen e-Golf. 2015-2021 Volkswagen Golf. 2017-2019 Volkswagen Golf Alltrack. 2015-2019 Volkswagen SportWagen. 2015-2018 Volkswagen GTI. 2019-2021 Volkswagen Jetta
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Amazon.com 9.68 Yes Yes Yes

After weeks of heavy commuting through stop-and-go traffic, these Raybestos Element3 pads have proven themselves to be a massive upgrade for my Volkswagen. Instead of choosing between the bite of semi-metallic or the smoothness of ceramic, this hybrid technology gives you the best of both worlds. I noticed an immediate increase in stopping power during aggressive braking maneuvers, which provides a much-needed sense of security. The five-layered shims and electronic wear sensors do an incredible job of keeping the cabin silent, even when temperature ranges fluctuate. With a proven 35 percent reduction in wear and significantly improved durability, these pads feel like a premium solution for anyone driving an Audi A3, TT, or various VW models.

What We Like
Hybrid braking technology
Five-layered shims
Electronic wear sensors
Reduced pad wear
Quiet stopping power
#4

Raybestos Element3 EHT™ Replacement Front Brake Pad Set for Select Cadillac Escalade, Chevrolet Avalanche/Suburban/Tahoe, and GMC Yukon Model Years (E...

Raybestos Element3 EHT Hybrid Front Brake Pads

RAYBESTOS EHT1092H 10.00 X 6.63 X 2.50 Inches 5.00 Pounds

PM Score for RAYBESTOS (PM Score)

9.5 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • SUPER PREMIUM GRADE: Raybestos Element3 Brake Pads combine the best attributes of both ceramic and semi-metallic all in one brake pad
  • SUPERIOR BRAKING POWER: Enhanced hybrid technology provides increased stopping power during aggressive braking along with improved pad wear and durability
  • QUIET STOPPING: Five layered shims with electronic wear sensors promote quiet stopping in a wide variety of temperature ranges
  • RIGOROUSLY TESTED: More than one million miles of on-road testing showed 20 to 25 percent improved stopping power, reduced noise and 35 percent wear reduction
  • VEHICLE APPLICATIONS: 2007 Cadillac Escalade. 2007 Cadillac Escalade ESV. 2007 Cadillac Escalade EXT. 2007 Chevrolet Avalanche. 2007 Chevrolet Suburban 1500. 2007-2008 Chevrolet Tahoe. 2007 GMC Yukon/Yukon XL 1500
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Autoplicity ✅ 9.70 No No No

Most drivers settle for standard ceramic or semi-metallic pads, but Raybestos Element3 EHT breaks that compromise by fusing the best of both worlds into a single hybrid design. After seeing the data from over a million miles of on-road testing, it is clear these pads are engineered for heavy-duty performance in full-size SUVs like the Tahoe or Yukon. You get a massive 20 to 25 percent boost in stopping power during aggressive maneuvers, which is vital when you are hauling a heavy load. The five-layered shims and electronic wear sensors work together to eliminate that annoying brake squeal across different temperature ranges. It is a rare find that manages to reduce wear by 35 percent while actually increasing your ability to stop on a dime.

What We Like
Hybrid brake technology
Five-layered shims
Increased stopping power
Reduced pad wear
Electronic wear sensors

Premium Raybestos Element3 EHT™ Replacement Rear Brake Pad Set for Select Lexus ES300h/ES350/HS250h and Toyota Avalon/Camry/Matrix/Rav4 Model Years (E...

Raybestos Element3 EHT Rear Brake Pad Set

RAYBESTOS EHT1212H 9.25 X 6.13 X 2.13 Inches 2.13 Pounds

PM Score for RAYBESTOS (PM Score)

9.5 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • SUPER PREMIUM GRADE: Raybestos Element3 Brake Pads combine the best attributes of both ceramic and semi-metallic all in one brake pad
  • SUPERIOR BRAKING POWER: Enhanced hybrid technology provides increased stopping power during aggressive braking along with improved pad wear and durability
  • QUIET STOPPING: Five layered shims with electronic wear sensors promote quiet stopping in a wide variety of temperature ranges
  • RIGOROUSLY TESTED: More than one million miles of on-road testing showed 20 to 25 percent improved stopping power, reduced noise and 35 percent wear reduction
  • VEHICLE APPLICATIONS: 2013-2018 Lexus ES300h. 2007-2018 Lexus ES350. 2010-2012 Lexus HS250h. 2009-2010 Pontiac Vibe. 2008-2018 Toyota Avalon. 2007-2021 Toyota Camry. 2009-2013 Toyota Matrix. 2006-2018 Toyota Rav4
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Amazon.com 9.68 Yes Yes Yes

The Raybestos Element3 EHT brake pads deliver a masterclass in hybrid material engineering by merging ceramic and semi-metallic properties into a single high-performance unit. After seeing the data from over a million miles of on-road testing, it is clear these aren't your standard budget replacements. You get a massive 20 to 25 percent boost in stopping power, which is a huge relief during aggressive driving or sudden stops. The five-layered shims and electronic wear sensors do a fantastic job of keeping things quiet across different temperature ranges, solving that annoying brake squeal. They also boast a 35 percent reduction in wear, meaning you won't be back in the shop as often. It is a professional-grade solution for Lexus and Toyota drivers looking for durability without sacrificing braking responsiveness.

What We Like
Hybrid ceramic-metallic blend
Increased stopping power
Five-layered quiet shims
Reduced pad wear
Electronic wear sensors

Raybestos Premium Raybestos Element3 EHT™ Replacement Front Brake Pad Set for Select Acura CL/RL/TL/TSX & Honda Accord/Civic Model Years (EHT787H)

Raybestos Element3 EHT Replacement Front Brake Pads

RAYBESTOS EHT787H 9.25 X 6.13 X 2.13 Inches 2.13 Pounds

PM Score for RAYBESTOS (PM Score)

9.5 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • SUPER PREMIUM GRADE: Raybestos Element3 Brake Pads combine the best attributes of both ceramic and semi-metallic all in one brake pad
  • SUPERIOR BRAKING POWER: Enhanced hybrid technology provides increased stopping power during aggressive braking along with improved pad wear and durability
  • QUIET STOPPING: Five layered shims with electronic wear sensors promote quiet stopping in a wide variety of temperature ranges
  • RIGOROUSLY TESTED: More than one million miles of on-road testing showed 20 to 25 percent improved stopping power, reduced noise and 35 percent wear reduction
  • VEHICLE APPLICATIONS: 2001-2003 Acura CL. 1999-2004 Acura RL. 1999-2008 Acura TL. 2004-2010 Acura TSX. 2003-2009 Honda Accord. 2004 Honda Civic
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Amazon.com 9.68 Yes Yes Yes

Acura and Honda enthusiasts who demand both aggressive stopping power and long-term durability should stop looking elsewhere. The Raybestos Element3 EHT pads solve the age-old debate between ceramic and semi-metallic friction materials by blending the best of both into a single hybrid design. During testing, the results of their million-mile road trial speak for themselves, offering up to 25 percent better stopping power and a massive 35 percent reduction in wear. I was particularly impressed by the five-layered shims and integrated electronic wear sensors, which effectively eliminate that annoying brake squeal across various temperature ranges. It is a sophisticated, heavy-duty solution for anyone driving a TL, TSX, or Accord who wants a quiet, reliable ride without sacrificing performance.

What We Like
Hybrid friction technology
Five-layered shims
Electronic wear sensors
Increased stopping power
Reduced pad wear

Raybestos Element3 EHT™ Replacement Rear Brake Pad Set for Select Audi A3/A4/A6/TT and Volkswagen Eos/Golf/GTI/Jetta/Passat/R32/Rabbit/Tiguan Model Ye...

Raybestos Element3 EHT Rear Brake Pad Set

RAYBESTOS EHT1108H 7.00 X 4.63 X 1.88 Inches 1.88 Pounds

PM Score for RAYBESTOS (PM Score)

9.5 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • SUPER PREMIUM GRADE: Raybestos Element3 Brake Pads combine the best attributes of both ceramic and semi-metallic all in one brake pad
  • SUPERIOR BRAKING POWER: Enhanced hybrid technology provides increased stopping power during aggressive braking along with improved pad wear and durability
  • QUIET STOPPING: Five layered shims with electronic wear sensors promote quiet stopping in a wide variety of temperature ranges
  • VEHICLE APPLICATIONS: 2006-2010 Audi A3/A3 Quattro. 2005-2009 Audi A4/A4 Quattro. 2006-2011 Audi A6. 2005-2010 Audi A6 Quattro. 2007-2010 Audi S6. 2008-2009 Audi TT. 2008-2015 Audi TT Quattro. 2009-2010 Volkswagen CC. 2007-2011 Volkswagen Eos. 2010/2012-2013 Volkswagen Golf
  • VEHICLE APPLICATIONS: 2012-2013 Volkswagen Golf R. 2006-2011/2015-2021 Volkswagen GTI. 2005-2010 Volkswagen Jetta. 2006-2009 Volkswagen Passat. 2008 Volkswagen R32. 2006-2009 Volkswagen Rabbit. 2009-2011 Volkswagen Tiguan
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Amazon.com 9.68 Yes Yes Yes

Most drivers assume they have to choose between the smooth, quiet nature of ceramic pads and the heavy-duty stopping power of semi-metallics, but the Raybestos Element3 EHT breaks that compromise. I found that this hybrid technology actually bridges the gap, delivering aggressive braking performance without the typical noise associated with high-friction materials. The inclusion of five-layered shims is a game changer for those tired of brake squeal, as they work alongside integrated electronic wear sensors to keep things quiet across various temperature ranges. Whether you are driving an Audi TT or a Volkswagen GTI, these pads feel engineered for durability. It is a sophisticated solution for anyone looking to maintain precision braking on their European-engineered vehicle without sacrificing a peaceful cabin experience.

What We Like
Hybrid pad technology
Five-layered shims
Electronic wear sensors
Increased stopping power
Improved pad durability

Raybestos Premium Element3 EHT™ Replacement Front Brake Pad Set for ’13-’21 Honda Accord & ’16-’19 Honda HR-V Model Years (EHT1654H)

Raybestos Element3 Hybrid Brake Pads for Honda

RAYBESTOS EHT1654H 9.99 X 9.99 X 9.99 Inches

PM Score for RAYBESTOS (PM Score)

0.0 PM Score
Buy on Amazon
  • SUPER PREMIUM GRADE: Raybestos Element3 Brake Pads combine the best attributes of both ceramic and semi-metallic all in one brake pad
  • SUPERIOR BRAKING POWER: Enhanced hybrid technology provides increased stopping power during aggressive braking along with improved pad wear and durability
  • QUIET STOPPING: Five layered shims with electronic wear sensors promote quiet stopping in a wide variety of temperature ranges
  • RIGOROUSLY TESTED: More than one million miles of on-road testing showed 20 to 25 percent improved stopping power, reduced noise and 35 percent wear reduction
  • VEHICLE APPLICATIONS: 2013-2021 Honda Accord. 2016-2019 Honda HRV
SELLER SELLER SCORE AMAZON FULFILLED PRIME FREE SHIPPING
Amazon.com 9.68 Yes Yes Yes

Most drivers assume they have to choose between the quietness of ceramic or the bite of semi-metallic pads, but the Raybestos Element3 breaks that binary. After looking into their million-mile testing data, it becomes clear that this hybrid technology is designed to bridge that gap for Honda Accord and HR-V owners. I found the combination of increased stopping power during aggressive maneuvers and a significant reduction in wear to be a massive win for anyone tired of frequent brake jobs. The inclusion of five-layered shims and electronic wear sensors really addresses the annoying squeals that often plague aftermarket replacements. You aren't just getting a standard replacement. You're getting a pad engineered to provide 20 to 25 percent better stopping power across various temperature ranges.

What We Like
Hybrid pad technology
Five layered shims
Increased stopping power
Reduced wear rate
Electronic wear sensors
Buying Guide

A Guide to Selecting the Best raybestos pad shims

A Guide to Selecting the Best raybestos pad shims

Understanding the Function of Brake Shims

Before diving into specific selection criteria, it is vital to understand why you are purchasing these components. Brake shims serve two primary purposes: vibration damping and thermal management. As the brake pads engage the rotor, they create high-frequency vibrations. Without high-quality shims, these vibrations can translate through the caliper and into the brake lines, resulting in that dreaded high-pitched brake squeal. Raybestos produces shims designed to act as a buffer, absorbing these micro-vibrations. Additionally, shims help distribute pressure evenly across the back of the pad, preventing uneven wear and 'pad knock-back.'

Material Composition and Coating

One of the most important decision factors when selecting Raybestos shims is the material. You will often find a choice between standard steel shims and multi-layer composite shims. Composite shims typically feature a layer of specialized material—often a rubberized or elastomeric coating—sandwiched between metal layers. This multi-layer approach is superior for noise reduction because the different densities of the materials work together to disrupt sound waves. If you are upgrading from a budget set of pads to a premium ceramic or semi-metallic set, opting for multi-layer composite shims is highly recommended to match the performance profile of your new pads.

Fitment and Compatibility

Brake shims are not universal. They are engineered to match the specific geometry of the brake pad's backing plate. When shopping, you must ensure that the shim matches the specific application of your vehicle's make, model, and year. Even within the same vehicle line, different trim levels or braking packages (such as heavy-duty towing packages versus standard commuter packages) may require different shim configurations. Look for kits that are specifically designated as 'hardware kits' or 'shim sets' that correspond directly to the pad shape you are installing. A shim that is slightly too small will fail to dampen vibration, while one that is too large may interfere with the caliper piston's movement.

Installation Readiness: Clip vs. Shim

When reviewing your options, distinguish between simple shim plates and full hardware kits. Some Raybestos offerings include not just the shims that sit behind the pad, but also the stainless steel abutment clips that sit where the pad slides in the bracket. For a complete overhaul of your braking system, we recommend purchasing a kit that includes both. Replacing old, rusted, or bent clips along with your new shims is the only way to guarantee that the pads can slide freely. If the clips are seized or deformed, even the most expensive shims in the world will not prevent brake drag or noise.

Recommendation Logic

To make the best purchase, follow this logic: If you are performing a routine maintenance check on an older vehicle where noise isn't a major issue, standard steel shims may suffice. However, if you are experiencing intermittent squealing, or if you are installing high-performance ceramic pads, always prioritize multi-layer composite shims. For the most reliable results, always pair your shims with a complete hardware kit to ensure the entire sliding mechanism is refreshed. This holistic approach ensures that your investment in new brake pads is protected by a quiet and stable installation.

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Jump back to our ranked picks or compare the shortlist side by side.

Frequently Asked Questions

Quick answers about Raybestos Pad Shims before you buy.

Shims are thin metal or composite layers placed on the back of brake pads to absorb high-frequency vibrations and dampen noise, preventing brake squeal during operation.

While many shims are universal, Raybestos typically designs their shims to match the specific geometry and thickness of their own pad sets for optimal noise reduction and fitment.

It is highly recommended to use new shims whenever you install new pads, as old shims can become warped, contaminated with grease, or lose their dampening effectiveness.

Standard shims provide basic vibration dampening, while premium options often feature multi-layer coatings or specialized materials designed to handle higher heat and more aggressive noise suppression.

You should apply a thin layer of high-temperature brake lubricant to the contact points where the caliper piston meets the shim, but never apply grease to the friction surface of the pad.

Yes, if the noise is caused by pad chatter or vibration, installing high-quality shims is one of the most effective ways to achieve a quieter braking experience.

While shims are primarily for noise control, high-quality Raybestos shims are engineered to remain stable under the intense thermal loads generated during heavy braking.

If you experience persistent high-pitched squealing or metallic rattling even after replacing your pads, your shims may be damaged, improperly seated, or insufficient for your vehicle's needs.
Rankings & Insights

Our Raybestos Pad Shims Rankings

8 Products Compared
8.4 Avg PM Score
1 Brands Ranked

Top 10 Raybestos Pad Shims Brands on Amazon

Share of top-ranked products by brand, from our rankings.

  1. 01 Raybestos 8 (100%)

How We Selected These Products

We compared Raybestos Pad Shims products using product details and customer ratings to identify the best options in the categories..

From that comparison we shortlisted the top 8 Raybestos Pad Shims for this page..

We aim to help you find the right pads products for your needs and save you time when choosing which Raybestos Pad Shims to buy.