There’s a specific, heart-sinking feeling every driver of a large SUV knows. It’s that moment you press the brake pedal and it feels just a little… soft. The vehicle slows, but not with the crisp, authoritative bite it once had. Maybe it’s accompanied by a faint grinding sound as you pull into the driveway, a sound that seems to get louder every day. This was exactly the scenario I faced with our trusty 2014 Chevy Traverse. At nearly 90,000 miles, the original factory brakes had served their duty, but the signs of wear were becoming undeniable. For a vehicle that’s responsible for hauling family, groceries, and gear, having anything less than 100% confidence in its stopping power is simply not an option. Ignoring these symptoms can lead to dangerously long stopping distances, warped rotors, and ultimately, a much more expensive repair down the line. It was time for a complete overhaul, a solution that promised not just a fix, but an upgrade.
- Measurement: Fits Models with 12.80 inch (325mm) Front Rotor & 13.03 inch (331mm) Rear Rotor Outside Diameter ONLY!!!
- Brake Rotors Brake Pads Replacement for 2008-2017 Buick Enclave - [2009-2017 Chevrolet Traverse] - 2007-2016 GMC Acadia - [2007-2010 Saturn Outlook] - [2017 GMC Acadia Limited]
What to Consider Before Buying a Complete Brake Kit
A complete brake kit is more than just a set of replacement parts; it’s a key solution for restoring and often enhancing one of your vehicle’s most critical safety systems. When your original rotors have become warped, grooved, or worn too thin, and your pads are nearing the end of their life, a matched kit ensures that all components work together in perfect harmony. The main benefits are twofold: performance and peace of mind. By replacing everything at once, you eliminate the guesswork and potential compatibility issues of mixing and matching brands, ensuring a consistent pedal feel, reliable stopping power, and often, a quieter ride than you’d get with piecemeal replacements.
The ideal customer for this type of product is a discerning vehicle owner, often a DIY enthusiast or someone who wants to supply their trusted mechanic with high-quality parts without paying dealership markups. They are facing noticeable brake degradation—like vibration, noise, or reduced responsiveness—on a high-mileage vehicle like a Buick Enclave or GMC Acadia. A complete kit is an efficient, cost-effective solution for them. Conversely, this might not be the best choice for someone whose vehicle is nearly new and only needs a simple pad replacement, or for the owner of a high-performance sports car who requires specialized, track-rated components. For them, individual component selection or a performance-specific brand might be more appropriate.
Before investing, consider these crucial points in detail:
- Dimensions & Fitment: This is the single most important factor. Vehicle manufacturers often use different brake sizes on the same model depending on the trim level or powertrain. For this Detroit Axle kit, you must confirm your vehicle has the 12.80″ front and 13.03″ rear rotors. Always measure your existing rotors or confirm with your vehicle’s specifications before ordering to avoid a frustrating and costly mistake.
- Performance & Application: Are you looking for a direct OEM replacement or an upgrade? This kit uses ceramic pads, which are a significant upgrade over standard semi-metallic pads in terms of noise and brake dust. They are designed for daily driving and provide smooth, consistent stopping power for heavy vehicles. They are not, however, designed for aggressive track use or extreme towing scenarios where a more robust semi-metallic or carbon-fiber compound might be required.
- Materials & Durability: The quality of the metal in the rotors and the compound of the pads dictates the lifespan of your brake job. These rotors are built to exceed OEM specs and claim to have a zinc coating for rust protection—a critical feature for those in wet or snowy climates. Ceramic pads are known for their long life and for being gentle on rotors, which contributes to the overall durability of the system.
- Ease of Use & Maintenance: A good brake kit should come with everything you need for a straightforward installation. While this kit includes the core components (rotors and pads), be prepared to have brake lubricant, cleaner, and basic tools on hand. Proper break-in (or “bedding”) of the new pads and rotors is also crucial for long-term performance and noise prevention, so be sure to follow the manufacturer’s recommended procedure.
Keeping these factors in mind, the Detroit Axle Brake Kit Front Rear Rotors Ceramic Pads stands out as a comprehensive solution for its target vehicles. You can explore its detailed specifications and confirm your vehicle’s fitment here.
While the Detroit Axle Brake Kit Front Rear Rotors Ceramic Pads is an excellent choice, it’s always wise to see how it stacks up against the competition. For a broader look at all the top models, we highly recommend checking out our complete, in-depth guide:
- Compatible: Please CHECK the Product Description and Fitment Chart--AMAZONCONFIRMEDFIT on the top left, year & model is not enough, check more details.
- Fits: 2015 TOYOTA TUNDRA MFG After 8/2015| 2015 TOYOTA TUNDRA MFG Up To 8/2015| 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 TOYOTA LAND CRUISER| 2016 2017 2018 2019 2020 2021 LEXUS LX570|
- Fits: 2007 2008 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 2014 2015 2016 2017 JEEP WRANGLER | 2018 JEEP WRANGLER JK
First Impressions: Heavy-Duty Hardware Ready for Work
The arrival of the Detroit Axle Brake Kit Front Rear Rotors Ceramic Pads was an event in itself. The shipping box, weighing in at a substantial 85.9 pounds, immediately signals that this is a serious, heavy-duty hardware package. Upon opening it, we were greeted with meticulously packed components. Each of the four massive cast-iron rotors was individually boxed and protected, as were the sets of front and rear ceramic pads. The rotors themselves have a satisfying heft and a clean, non-directional finish on the braking surface. They feel every bit as substantial as the OEM parts they are meant to replace, if not more so. The ceramic brake pads came with all the necessary hardware shims, which is a thoughtful inclusion that saves a trip to the parts store. There were no frills or fancy marketing materials, just the essential components, which speaks to the brand’s focus on delivering value and function over flash. The initial impression is one of solid, no-nonsense quality that’s ready to be put to the test.
What We Like
- Comprehensive kit includes all four rotors and all pad sets.
- Ceramic pads provide quiet, low-dust braking performance.
- Built to exceed OEM specifications for a precise fit.
- Backed by an impressive 10-year warranty against defects.
Limitations
- Zinc coating’s long-term rust resistance is questionable based on our findings.
- Potential for minor fitment issues, such as the parking brake adjustment hole.
Performance Deep Dive: Putting the Detroit Axle Kit to the Test
A brake kit’s true worth is only revealed on the road, under real-world conditions. It’s about more than just stopping; it’s about the feel, the noise, the confidence, and the durability over thousands of miles. We installed the Detroit Axle Brake Kit Front Rear Rotors Ceramic Pads on our Chevrolet Traverse and subjected it to a comprehensive evaluation, from the initial installation in the garage to rigorous braking tests on city streets and winding country roads.
Installation and Fitment: A DIY Perspective
For any moderately experienced home mechanic, installing a brake kit is a rewarding weekend project. We found the installation process for the Detroit Axle Brake Kit Front Rear Rotors Ceramic Pads to be largely straightforward and true to the OEM replacement promise. The rotors slid perfectly onto the hubs, and the bolt holes lined up without any need for persuasion. The front rotors, at 12.80 inches, and the rear rotors, at 13.03 inches, were an exact match for the factory specifications of our Traverse, which is the most critical hurdle to clear. The included brake pads fit snugly into the caliper brackets, and the new hardware clips provided a reassuringly tight fit, eliminating potential sources of rattle or vibration.
However, our installation wasn’t without a minor hiccup, confirming feedback we’d seen from other users. When installing the driver-side rear rotor, we noted that the access hole for the parking brake star adjuster didn’t align perfectly. While the rotor itself fit on the hub correctly, making future adjustments to the parking brake would require removing the wheel and the entire rotor, rather than simply turning the adjuster through the hole. This is a small but notable oversight in the manufacturing process. It doesn’t affect braking performance in any way, but it does add a potential inconvenience for future maintenance. Aside from this specific issue, the overall fit and finish were excellent, and the job was completed in a few hours with standard tools. The sheer weight of the components serves as a constant reminder of the forces they are designed to handle, making proper torque specs and secure installation paramount.
Braking Performance and Feel: Ceramic Pads in Action
Once installed, the break-in procedure is the first and most critical step. We followed a standard bedding process of several moderate-to-firm stops from around 40-45 mph to properly mate the new pads to the rotors. The immediate difference was night and day. The spongy, vague pedal feel of the old, worn-out brakes was gone, replaced by a firm, confident, and highly responsive pedal. The initial bite of the ceramic pads is smooth and progressive, not grabby or abrupt, which is ideal for a heavy family vehicle like the Traverse. This allows for very controlled, comfortable stops in typical city traffic.
Where the Detroit Axle Brake Kit Front Rear Rotors Ceramic Pads truly shines is in its quiet operation. One of the primary advantages of ceramic compounds is their ability to dissipate heat effectively while producing minimal noise, and this kit delivers on that promise flawlessly. Throughout our testing, from gentle stops to more aggressive panic-stop simulations from 60 mph, the brakes remained completely silent. There was no squealing, grinding, or groaning—just smooth, effective deceleration. Furthermore, brake dust, the bane of anyone who likes to keep their wheels clean, was dramatically reduced compared to the stock semi-metallic pads. After several weeks of driving, the wheels remained remarkably clean, a testament to the quality of the ceramic formulation. For daily driving, the performance is a significant upgrade over stock, providing the kind of reliable, quiet stopping power that instills confidence on every trip.
Durability and Longevity: The 10-Year Warranty and Real-World Wear
Durability is a major concern for any significant vehicle repair, and brakes are no exception. Detroit Axle backs this kit with a 10-year warranty, which certainly sounds impressive. It’s important to understand this warranty covers manufacturing defects, not normal wear and tear. A warped rotor or a delaminating pad within a reasonable timeframe would likely be covered, but pads worn out from mileage would not. Still, it shows a level of confidence in the product’s construction.
One of the key advertised features is the zinc plating on the rotors, intended to prevent the unsightly rust that plagues brake components in many climates. In our long-term evaluation, this is where we found the product’s most significant weakness. While the braking surfaces themselves remained clean (as they are constantly swept by the pads), the rotor hats and cooling vanes began to show noticeable surface rust within about two months of installation, after being exposed to several rainstorms. This experience aligns directly with reports from other users who noted premature rusting. While this surface rust is primarily cosmetic and does not impact the safety or performance of the brake system, it does detract from the overall perception of quality and longevity. For owners in the salt belt or areas with high humidity, this is a definite point of consideration. The core function of the rotors and pads remains solid, but the protective coating did not live up to our expectations for long-term corrosion resistance. If you’re looking for a brake kit that will keep your wheels looking pristine for years to come, you might need to consider a higher-end option with a more robust coating, like GEOMET or similar treatments. However, if your primary focus is on excellent, affordable braking performance, the value offered by this complete brake kit is hard to dispute.
What Other Users Are Saying
Our findings are largely echoed by the broader community of users who have installed this kit on their vehicles. The sentiment is generally positive regarding the installation and performance, with a few consistent critiques. One user, who installed the kit on a 2011 Traverse, noted the same issue we did: “the problem that driver side parking brake hole does not line up so you have to remove rotor when you have to make and adjustment.” This confirms that our experience wasn’t an isolated fluke but a potential design flaw to be aware of. The most common point of criticism, however, revolves around the advertised rust protection. Multiple users stated that the rotors “rusted less than 2 months” after installation, directly corroborating our own long-term observations. Despite the claims of zinc plating, the real-world corrosion resistance seems to be a significant weak point. It’s clear that while the kit performs well in its core function of stopping the vehicle, expectations for its long-term cosmetic appearance should be managed.
How Does the Detroit Axle Brake Kit Compare to the Competition?
The Detroit Axle Brake Kit Front Rear Rotors Ceramic Pads occupies a competitive space in the market, focusing on OEM-style replacement and value. However, it’s helpful to see how its approach compares to other popular options, even if they are for different vehicle applications. This comparison highlights different philosophies in brake kit design, from performance enhancement to pure OE replacement.
1. Max Advanced Brakes StyleMAX Rear Brake Kit
- Upgraded Performance for Everyday Driving : StyleMAX is designed for drivers who want a refined daily performance with visual edge. Ideal for city streets and highway commutes, it blends upgraded...
- Precision Drilled for Fade Control: Cross-drilled rotors improve heat dissipation, reducing surface temperatures and minimizing fade during repeated stops. Featuring non-directional finish, delivering...
The Max Advanced Brakes kit for the Toyota RAV4 and Camry takes a different approach by focusing on aesthetics and mild performance enhancement. Its key feature is the cross-drilled rotors, which are designed to improve heat dissipation and provide a sportier look behind open-spoke wheels. This is a great choice for a daily driver owner who wants to add a touch of performance styling without the harshness or cost of a true big brake kit. While Detroit Axle prioritizes a direct, factory-style replacement for large SUVs, Max Advanced Brakes caters to the sedan and compact SUV owner looking for a visual and slight thermal upgrade.
2. Brake X Front and Rear Brake Pads and Rotors Kit for Toyota Rav4
- Get The Right Fit: The front and rear replacement brakes and rotors kit are built for 2013 2014 2015 2016 Rav4 2.5L, 275mm Front Disc, Made In Japan
- 12 Piece Brake Kit Replacement: Designed for 2013-2016 Toyota Rav4 Brake pads and rotors kit. Our front and rear brake kit comes with 4 brake rotors for the front and back along with 8 automotive...
Similar to Detroit Axle, the Brake X kit for the Toyota RAV4 is positioned as a complete, OE-style replacement solution. It bundles their “NYX OE+” rotors with “Alpha Ceramic” pads, emphasizing a return to factory-spec performance and feel. This product is for the owner who was perfectly happy with their car’s original braking and simply wants to restore it to that condition with a convenient, all-in-one package. The value proposition is nearly identical to that of the Detroit Axle kit: providing all the necessary components for a full front-and-rear brake job at an affordable price point, making it a direct competitor in philosophy, just for a different vehicle segment.
3. Power Stop KOE098 Rear Brake Pad and Rotor Kit
- Z17 Evolution Rear Brake Pad and Rotor Kit Includes 2x Rear Autospecialty Stock Replacement Rotors + 1 Rear Z17 Ceramic Brake Pad Set with Hardware
- Z17 Stock Replacement brake kit is recommended for drivers looking to refresh their daily driven vehicle's stopping power back to OE, stock performance
Power Stop is one of the most recognized names in the aftermarket brake industry, and their KOE (Stock Replacement) line is a formidable competitor. This kit for Nissan models focuses on delivering a meticulously engineered OEM replacement. Power Stop is known for its excellent quality control and for including premium hardware and lubricant in their kits. While the Detroit Axle kit offers an unbeatable 10-year warranty, Power Stop often commands a slightly higher price based on its brand reputation and the perceived quality of its components. A buyer might choose the Power Stop kit if they prioritize brand trust and a history of positive reviews over the longer warranty term offered by Detroit Axle.
Our Final Verdict: A High-Value Performer with a Minor Flaw
After extensive testing, the Detroit Axle Brake Kit Front Rear Rotors Ceramic Pads proves to be a compelling and high-value solution for owners of compatible GM SUVs. It successfully restores and arguably upgrades the braking performance of these heavy vehicles, delivering smooth, quiet, and confident stopping power thanks to its well-formulated ceramic pads. The convenience of receiving all four rotors and all pad sets in one box at such an aggressive price point is a major advantage for any DIYer or budget-conscious owner.
However, the kit is not without its flaws. The premature surface rust on the rotors is a definite cosmetic disappointment, and the minor misalignment of the parking brake adjustment hole is an annoying oversight. Despite these issues, the core performance of the system—its ability to stop a 5,000-pound vehicle safely and quietly—is excellent. We would recommend this kit to anyone whose primary goal is to restore braking performance on a budget and is willing to overlook the cosmetic rusting. For the price, the performance you receive is truly hard to beat.
If you’ve decided the Detroit Axle Brake Kit Front Rear Rotors Ceramic Pads is the right fit for your Traverse, Enclave, or Acadia, you can check its current price and purchase it here.
Last update on 2025-10-16 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API