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Choosing the right rear brake pads for your GMC Sierra 1500 matters for safety, towing, and everyday driving. The wrong pads can increase stopping distance, create excessive noise, or wear prematurely under load. This guide focuses on the top rear brake pads that suit the Sierra 1500's weight and typical use, whether you mostly commute, haul a trailer, or drive in mixed conditions.We shortlisted the best rear brake pads based on braking performance, wear life, noise control, and compatibility with common Sierra 1500 rear calipers. Below you will find practical guidance on what to prioritize and why each evaluation factor matters for this truck. Read on to pick pads that match your driving needs and maintenance schedule.
Looking for other parts? See all GMC Sierra 1500 parts & accessories.
Top Picks at a Glance
| Best Overall The best all-around choice for most situations | ACDelco Gold 17D1707CH Ceramic Rear Disc Brake Pad Set |  |
| Best Quality Built to a higher standard if you want something more solid | PowerStop Z36 Truck & Tow Rear Carbon-Fiber Ceramic Brake Pads with Hardware |  |
| Best Value The sweet spot between price and what you get | KAX Ceramic Rear Brake Pads (Set of 4) |  |
| Best Budget The cheapest option that still gets the job done reliably | SCITOO Rear Ceramic Brake Pads (D1707) |  |
| Highest Rated A top-rated pick with lots of positive feedback | Bendix Priority1 CFC1707 Ceramic Rear Brake Pads |  |
| Most Popular A crowd favorite that many people choose with confidence | Detroit Axle Rear Ceramic Brake Pads with Hardware (Rear) |  |
| Best Seller A high-volume bestseller chosen again and again | Detroit Axle Complete Front & Rear Brake Rotor and Ceramic Pad Kit |  |
1. ACDelco Gold 17D1707CH Ceramic Rear Disc Brake Pad Set
| Material Type | Ceramic |
|---|---|
| Auto Part Position | Rear |
| Model Number | 17D1707CH |
| Specification Met | OEM |
These ACDelco Gold ceramic rear pads are positioned as a high-quality replacement for factory rear pads on compatible GMC Sierra 1500 models. They use a molded ceramic friction material with stamped backing plates and premium shims, slots, and chamfers to help cut down noise, vibration, and harshness while giving predictable stopping performance. Typical use is direct replacement during routine brake service or when refreshing rotors and pads after wear from mileage or towing. The pads meet SAE J2784 braking effectiveness tests and include features intended to control pad movement and reduce brake pulsation. In practice that means a quiet, OEM-like pedal feel and low dust compared with many semi-metallic options, though ceramic pads can run slightly hotter under extreme repeated heavy braking. The set is a universal-fit ACDelco Gold tier part manufactured to meet fit, form, and function expectations for GM vehicles, so installation is straightforward for DIYers and techs familiar with rear pad swaps. If you tow often or do aggressive downhill braking, monitor fade until you confirm behavior under your specific loads.
Best for: GMC Sierra 1500 owners seeking a quiet, factory-quality replacement rear pad that balances stopping performance, low dust, and NVH reduction for everyday driving and light towing.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who regularly perform heavy-duty towing or repeated high-speed descents and need specialty high-temperature or heavy-duty track-rated pads should consider purpose-built options instead.
- Ceramic friction for quieter operation and reduced brake dust compared with many semi-metallic pads
- Molded friction and stamped backing plate for reliable bond and controlled pad movement
- Shims, slots, and chamfers included to minimize noise and vibration
- Tested to SAE J2784 for braking effectiveness and durability
- Universal-fit designation means confirming exact Sierra 1500 fitment is necessary before purchase
Verdict: Choose these ACDelco Gold ceramic rear pads for a near-factory replacement that prioritizes quiet operation, low dust, and reliable everyday braking on a GMC Sierra 1500.
2. PowerStop Z36 Truck & Tow Rear Carbon-Fiber Ceramic Brake Pads with Hardware
| Model | Z36-1707 |
|---|---|
| Exterior | Carbon-Fiber Ceramic |
| Position | Rear |
PowerStop Z36 Rear Truck & Tow pads are a performance-minded replacement for the rear brakes on full-size pickup trucks, built to handle heavier loads and towing without sacrificing everyday drivability. They install like a direct-fit replacement and ship with retainers and hardware so you can swap pads without sourcing extra parts. The carbon-fiber ceramic compound and thermal-scorched surface deliver stronger initial bite and reduced fade when hauling or towing, while stainless-steel shims and powder-coated backing plates help dissipate heat and minimize noise. Users report low dust levels, quiet stops, and noticeably shorter stopping distances compared with stock pads. Expect a firmer pedal feel under load and a faster bed-in period thanks to the scorched surface. These pads are tuned for hauling performance rather than track use, so while they resist fade in heavy-duty road use, they are not a high-friction racing compound and one global review did note overheating on extreme downhill or severe off-road use. Overall they offer a durable, quiet upgrade for trucks that tow or carry heavy loads regularly.
Best for: Buyers who prioritize improved stopping power and durability when towing or hauling and want a quiet, low-dust rear pad that installs as a direct replacement.
Less Ideal for: Drivers seeking race-level friction compounds or frequent track use should choose a dedicated performance or racing pad designed for sustained high-temperature braking.
- Carbon-fiber ceramic compound provides stronger initial bite and reduced brake dust
- Includes installation hardware and stainless-steel shims for quieter, heat‑resistant operation
- Powder-coated backing plates resist rust to extend pad life
- Thermally scorched surface shortens break-in time for quicker performance gains
- Not formulated for extreme track use or prolonged high-temperature downhill braking in heavy-duty conditions
Verdict: Choose these pads to get a quiet, low-dust rear braking upgrade that delivers stronger, more fade-resistant stopping power for towing and heavy-duty truck use.
3. KAX Ceramic Rear Brake Pads (Set of 4)
| Material Type | Ceramic |
|---|---|
| Auto Part Position | Rear |
| Number of Items | 4 |
| Model Number | D1707 |
| Manufacturer Warranty Description | 1 Year Manufacturer |
These KAX ceramic rear brake pads are a vehicle-specific replacement set intended for late-model full-size trucks and SUVs. They use a ceramic compound to reduce wheel dust and are fitted with noise-damping shims and chamfered edges to minimize squeal and vibration. In use they act like a quiet, rotor-friendly option for everyday city and highway driving, offering consistent stopping power across normal temperature ranges and improved rotor life compared with more aggressive metallic pads. Installation is straightforward for a DIYer familiar with rear brake jobs and the kit includes four rear pads and the listed mounting components. Expect noticeably less wheel grime and a smoother, quieter pedal feel, though ceramic pads can cost a bit more than basic semi-metallic options and may not provide the same high-heat stopping as performance-oriented pads under heavy towing or repeated track use. For routine driving this set balances comfort, cleanliness, and rotor preservation well.
Best for: Buyers who prioritize low dust, quiet daily driving, and preserving rotors on full-size trucks and SUVs and who prefer a straightforward, cost-effective replacement.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who frequently tow heavy loads, carry heavy payloads, or routinely perform aggressive braking would be better served by high-performance or heavy-duty friction materials.
- Ceramic compound produces significantly less brake dust for cleaner wheels.
- Included noise-damping shims and chamfers reduce squeal and vibration.
- Less abrasive on rotors, which can extend rotor life and lower replacement costs.
- Vehicle-specific fit and included mounting components simplify installation.
- Not optimized for heavy-duty towing, hauling, or track use where metallic or high-performance pads perform better.
Verdict: Choose these KAX ceramic rear pads if you want a quiet, low-dust replacement that helps protect rotors for everyday driving on full-size trucks and SUVs.
4. SCITOO Rear Ceramic Brake Pads (D1707)
| Auto Part Position | Rear |
|---|---|
| Material Type | Ceramic |
| Unit Count | 4.0 Count |
| Automotive Fit Type | Vehicle Specific Fit |
| Manufacturer Warranty Description | 1 Year |
These SCITOO rear ceramic pads are a vehicle-specific replacement set intended for GM full-size trucks and SUVs like the GMC Sierra 1500. They use ceramic friction material, chamfered edges, and pre-applied noise-dampening shims to reduce squeal and limit visible brake dust compared with semi-metallic pads. In everyday use they provide smooth, quiet deceleration for commuting and towing-light duty driving; reviewers report straightforward fitment and easy installation when the correct part is selected. The pads are recommended to be bedded gently for the first 200 miles to seat the surface and avoid initial noise. Important limitations: fitment depends on the correct part number or VIN because brake hardware can vary across models and packages, and a few buyers reported wrong or incompatible parts when fitment was not verified. Also pad life will vary with driving style so monitor thickness periodically.
Best for: Drivers replacing rear pads on a GMC Sierra 1500 who prioritize low noise and low-dust ceramic performance while keeping costs down and handling the install themselves or with a basic shop service.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who need heavy-duty, high-temperature racing or commercial towing pads should choose a different friction compound designed for sustained high heat; also avoid if you cannot verify exact fitment for your truck.
- Ceramic compound reduces wheel dust compared with semi-metallic pads
- Pre-applied shims and chamfers help minimize squeal
- Made to vehicle-specific fitment for a near-factory replacement experience
- Easy to install for a typical DIY rear brake job
- Fitment must be confirmed by part number or VIN because caliper/hardware variations exist
Verdict: A cost-conscious way to get quiet, low-dust ceramic rear replacement pads for a GMC Sierra 1500 when you confirm exact fitment before buying.
5. Bendix Priority1 CFC1707 Ceramic Rear Brake Pads
| Material | Ceramic |
|---|---|
| Auto Part Position | Rear |
| Specification Met | OEM |
| Automotive Fit Type | Universal Fit |
The Bendix Priority1 CFC1707 rear brake pads are a ceramic replacement set engineered to match factory fit and function for compatible full-size trucks. They come with installation hardware and a packet of lubricant, and the pads include shims, slots, and chamfers aimed at quiet, consistent stopping. In everyday driving on a GMC Sierra 1500 this type of ceramic compound delivers smooth pedal feel, reduced brake dust, and reliable stopping under normal loads and highway use. Buyers report straightforward installation for DIYers when bracket dimensions match, and the machined exterior plus hardware helps reduce noise and ensure the pads sit correctly. Limitations: ceramic pads can heat up more slowly during very heavy towing or repeated hard stops compared with some semi-metallic compounds, so drivers who frequently tow maximum payloads or need aggressive initial bite may prefer a tow-rated or heavy-duty friction material. Fitment must be confirmed against the truck’s rear caliper design before purchase.
Best for: Someone prioritizing dependable, quiet braking and low-maintenance daily performance for a GMC Sierra 1500 rear axle who wants a factory-style replacement they can install themselves.
Less Ideal for: Not the best choice for drivers who regularly tow at the vehicle’s maximum capacity or who demand aggressive high-temperature stopping for race or heavy commercial use.
- Factory-quality fit and form aimed at direct replacement for compatible rear calipers
- Ceramic friction compound gives quiet operation and low brake dust
- Includes installation hardware and a packet of lubricant for a complete DIY swap
- Shims, slots, and chamfers help reduce noise and improve bedding-in
- Ceramic material may offer less initial bite and heat tolerance than heavy-duty semi-metallic pads during prolonged towing or severe-duty braking
Verdict: Choose these Bendix ceramic rear pads if you want a quiet, factory-quality replacement that keeps braking consistent and wheels cleaner on your GMC Sierra 1500.
6. Detroit Axle Rear Ceramic Brake Pads with Hardware (Rear)
| Brand | Detroit Axle |
|---|---|
| Position | Rear |
| Material | Ceramic |
| Includes | 2x Rear Pads with Hardware |
This Detroit Axle rear brake pad kit supplies two ceramic rear pads plus the necessary hardware for a direct replacement on supported full‑size trucks and SUVs. Installed as a like‑for‑like replacement, the ceramic formulation aims for quieter operation and lower wheel dust than metallic pads, and many buyers report an OEM‑style fit that makes installation straightforward. The kit includes grease and clips so you can lube the slider pins and fit the pads cleanly, which helps reduce installation‑related noise. In service the pads deliver strong initial bite after a short bed‑in period and consistent, smooth stopping for daily driving and towing duties. Expect some initial grab or temporary noise until the pads and rotors seat together; that typically clears after a brief break‑in. These are replacement pads rather than an upgraded performance compound, so drivers seeking track use or extreme fade resistance should look at specialty options instead.
Best for: Buyers who prioritize dependable, tested replacement parts and value social proof from many positive user experiences; ideal for drivers who want an easy, OEM‑style rear pad swap and low dust daily performance.
Less Ideal for: Drivers who need motorsport or repeated heavy‑duty towing brake compounds should consider high‑performance pads engineered for elevated heat and fade resistance.
- Ceramic compound reduces dust and generally runs quieter than metallic pads
- Designed for direct, factory‑style fit to simplify installation
- Kit includes hardware and brake grease so installers have required small parts and lubrication
- Consistent stopping power after short bedding‑in, suitable for daily driving and light towing
- Not formulated for extreme track use or high‑temperature repeated heavy braking
Verdict: A dependable, low‑dust ceramic rear pad kit that fits like a factory replacement and comes with the hardware and grease needed for a straightforward install.
7. Detroit Axle Complete Front & Rear Brake Rotor and Ceramic Pad Kit
| Brand Name | Detroit Axle |
|---|---|
| Fitment rotor sizes | 12.99" front, 13.58" rear |
| Pad type | Ceramic Brake Pads |
| Includes | Front and rear rotors, front and rear pads, cleaner and brake fluid |
| Warranty | 10 Year Warranty |
This Detroit Axle kit supplies both front and rear rotors plus ceramic pads and small consumables so you can do a complete brake job on compatible Sierra 1500 models without sourcing parts separately. The rotors are zinc plated and vented to resist corrosion and help dissipate heat, while the ceramic pads are described as low-noise and longer lasting than standard metallic pads. The kit includes hardware, a small packet of anti-seize, brake cleaner and a bottle of brake fluid to support installation and a basic brake fluid flush. Fitment is listed for trucks using 12.99 inch front and 13.58 inch rear rotors, and many owners report straightforward installation and good stopping feel after bedding. Expect to provide common shop supplies you already own such as extra grease, gloves, and replacement rotor screws if yours are corroded or damaged. This is a practical option for a careful buyer who wants a complete, factory-style replacement set rather than mixing parts from different sources.
Best for: Sensible owners who prefer a full, matched brake replacement kit and want the convenience of receiving rotors, pads and basic consumables together for a straightforward, factory-style service on a Sierra 1500.
Less Ideal for: Drivers seeking high-performance or track-oriented brake upgrades should look for performance-specific rotors and pads tailored to heavy braking and repeated track use.
- Complete kit includes front and rear rotors, front and rear ceramic pads, basic hardware, brake cleaner and brake fluid
- Zinc-plated, vented rotors resist corrosion and promote faster cooling under load
- Ceramic pads formulated for quieter operation and longer life than generic metallic pads
- Most users report good fit and straightforward installation on compatible GM trucks
- Does not include replacement rotor retaining screws if original screws are seized or damaged
- Supplied anti-seize comes in very small packets and may not be adequate for multiple contact points
Verdict: Buy this all-in-one kit if you want a matched, easy-to-install replacement set that restores quiet, reliable braking on a Sierra 1500 with the listed rotor sizes.
Choosing the Right GMC Sierra 1500 Rear Brake Pads: Key Factors to Consider
Stopping Power and Fade Resistance
Stopping power determines how quickly your Sierra 1500 will slow under normal and emergency braking. Trucks impose higher kinetic energy on the braking system, so pads must generate sufficient friction without overheating.
Fade resistance matters when towing or descending long grades. Pads formulated for stable friction across a range of temperatures will maintain bite under repeated heavy stops, which reduces stopping distances and preserves driver confidence.
Material Type and Rotor Compatibility
Pad material—organic, semi-metallic, or ceramic—affects bite, dust, and rotor wear. Ceramic-style formulations typically produce less dust and quieter operation, while semi-metallic pads can offer stronger initial bite and heat tolerance. Choose a material that balances noise, dust, and thermal durability for the Sierra 1500's typical load and driving environment.
Also consider how aggressive the pad is on rotors. Some high-friction compounds increase rotor wear; for a truck owner who wants long-term service life, a moderate compound that protects rotors while delivering consistent braking is usually preferable.
Wear Life and Thickness Specifications
Pad thickness and expected wear life determine how often you will need to replace rear pads. Thicker initial material generally means longer intervals between service, but compound and driving style are significant variables.
Check the pad thickness spec and typical mileage estimates for the compound type. Owners who tow frequently or do heavy-duty work should expect accelerated wear and may choose a longer-life compound or plan for more frequent inspections.
Noise, Vibration, and Harshness (NVH) Control
Brake noise is a common owner complaint on trucks. Properly designed pads and backing plates, along with quality shims, reduce squeal and vibration. NVH control improves perceived build quality and makes daily driving more pleasant.
Look for pads that include anti-squeal features and consider whether additional shims or hardware are recommended for the Sierra 1500 rear calipers to minimize noise after installation.
Fitment and Installation Ease
Accurate fitment for the Sierra 1500 rear calipers is essential to prevent uneven wear and braking issues. Pads must match the caliper geometry and include or work with factory hardware to seat properly.
Ease-of-installation matters if you plan to service the truck yourself. Pads that use common mounting features and require minimal extra parts simplify replacement and reduce install time at a typical service interval.
Dust and Wheel Cleanliness
Brake dust can coat wheels and affect appearance. Ceramic-style pads and lower-dust formulations help keep wheels cleaner, which is important if you want to maintain the Sierra 1500's look between washes.
Consider tradeoffs: lower dust usually corresponds with specific compounds that may have different wear characteristics. Balance cleanliness preferences with expected service life and braking needs.
When To Replace Your Sierra 1500 Rear Pads
Several indicators tell you it is time to replace rear brake pads. A visual check through the wheel will show pad thickness; many owners replace pads when lining material is near the manufacturer's minimum thickness specification. Brake pad wear sensors, if equipped, provide an electrical warning at the dash or an audible squeal when pads are low.
Routine symptoms that signal replacement include persistent squealing under light braking, reduced pedal feel, or requiring greater pedal travel to achieve the same stopping effect. If you tow or haul regularly, inspect the rear pads more frequently because those activities accelerate wear.
- Visual thickness check—measure against spec
- Squeal or grinding noises during braking
- Reduced pedal effectiveness or increased stopping distance
- Regular inspection schedule when towing or hauling
How Load and Towing Affect Rear Pad Choice
Towing and heavy loads change how rear brakes behave. The Sierra 1500's rear brakes may see higher temperatures and more stress, which amplifies wear and can cause fade on sustained descents. Select pads with higher thermal stability and predictable friction curves to maintain stopping power under load.
A heavier-duty pad compound or one designed for trucks can extend life and resist fade, but owners should weigh that against increased rotor wear or dust if those factors matter for your use case.
- Higher thermal demands when towing
- Tradeoffs between wear rate and rotor stress
- Consider brake cooling and driving technique on long descents
Replacement Hardware and Service Tips
Replacing rear pads on a Sierra 1500 is an opportunity to inspect related components. Check caliper slides, pins, and the condition of anti-rattle clips. Worn hardware can cause uneven pad wear or noise even with good pads installed.
When servicing, clean contact points, apply the correct high-temperature lubricant to slides and shims, and torque caliper bolts to the factory specification. If the pads include new clips or shims, install them to maximize NVH control and pad seating.
- Inspect and clean caliper slides and pins
- Replace anti-rattle clips when worn
- Use high-temperature brake lubricant on contact surfaces
- Follow proper torque specs for caliper fasteners
Rotor Condition and When To Resurface
Pad material and rotor surface interact. A grooved or heavily scored rotor can accelerate pad wear and reduce braking smoothness. Measure rotor thickness against the vehicle's minimum spec before deciding to reuse rotors.
Resurface rotors when light scoring or uneven thickness exists and the rotor remains above the minimum thickness. Replace rotors that are deeply grooved, warped, or already near the minimum thickness to ensure consistent pad contact and avoid pulsation under braking.
- Measure rotor thickness against spec
- Resurface for light scoring when above minimum
- Replace rotors with deep grooves or warping
- Ensure runout is within manufacturer limits
Bed‑In Procedure for Optimal Performance
A proper bed-in helps establish an even transfer layer between pad and rotor, improving initial bite and reducing noise. For the Sierra 1500, perform a staged bed-in that uses repeated moderate stops from progressively higher speeds while avoiding hard stops from very high speed until pads and rotors mate.
After bed-in, perform a short verification run to ensure pedal feel and stopping power meet expectations. Avoid heavy duty towing immediately after installation to allow materials to stabilize.
- Follow manufacturer-recommended bed-in steps
- Use progressive stops to create an even transfer layer
- Avoid heavy towing immediately after installation
Still looking for the perfect fit?
Select your GMC Sierra 1500 configuration to see the most relevant Brake Pads recommendations
How We Chose the Best GMC Sierra 1500 Rear Brake Pads
To create this shortlist we used a practical, truck-focused editorial process that emphasizes real-world use and vehicle compatibility. We prioritized stopping performance under load and fade resistance because the Sierra 1500 often carries passengers, cargo, or trailers. Durability metrics were weighted heavily to reflect the higher mass and towing duty cycle of this truck.We also considered noise and dust characteristics since comfort and wheel cleanliness matter to owners. Fitment accuracy and backing plate design were checked to ensure proper seating and consistent wear in Sierra 1500 rear calipers. Ease of installation and whether replacement hardware or shims are typically required were included as serviceability factors.We excluded products with unclear fitment information, unsupported warranty terms, or materials that are known to accelerate rotor wear. In short, selections favor reliable braking performance, predictable wear, and quiet operation under the driving patterns common to GMC Sierra 1500 owners.
Our full evaluation process is outlined in our review methodology.
FAQ
How often should I check my GMC Sierra 1500 rear brake pads?
It depends on driving and towing habits, but inspect rear pads every 10,000 to 15,000 miles or sooner if you tow frequently. Visual checks during tire rotations are a good routine.
Can I replace only the rear pads and keep the existing rotors?
Often you can if the rotors are within thickness and surface condition specs. Measure rotor thickness and inspect for deep grooves or warping before deciding to reuse them.
What causes a grinding noise from the rear brakes?
Grinding usually indicates that the friction material is worn down to the backing plate or that a foreign object is embedded in the pad or rotor. Stop using the vehicle for heavy duty driving and inspect pads and rotors promptly.
Are ceramic rear pads a good choice for the Sierra 1500?
Ceramic-style formulations typically offer quieter operation and lower dust, which many owners prefer for daily driving. For heavy towing, consider whether the ceramic compound's thermal characteristics match your duty cycle.
Do rear pads wear faster than front pads on a truck?
Front pads typically handle a larger share of braking force and often wear faster. However, on trucks engaged in heavy towing or with rear bias braking loads, rear pad wear can be substantial and should be monitored more closely.
How thick should rear pads be when new and when to replace?
New pad thickness varies by manufacturer, but replacing pads before they reach the minimum lining thickness specified by the vehicle maker is essential. Check the Sierra 1500's service manual for exact thickness specs and replace earlier if you notice noise or reduced braking performance.
Final Verdict
For the GMC Sierra 1500, prioritize rear brake pads that balance stopping power, durability, and noise control according to how you use the truck. If you tow or haul frequently, favor compounds with higher thermal stability and plan for more frequent inspections. For primarily daily driving, quieter, lower-dust formulations can improve comfort and wheel cleanliness.Ultimately, choose rear pads that match the Sierra 1500's rear caliper fitment and your typical load profile. Focus on stopping performance under load, predictable wear life, and proper installation practices to get reliable braking and minimize unexpected service.
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- Check out all GMC Sierra 1500 parts & accessories
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