Power Stop Z23 Rear Carbon Ceramic Brake Pads - Improved Stopping Feel

In this review the Power Stop Z23 rear carbon fiber infused ceramic brake pads are evaluated for drivers who want improved stopping power without sacrificing everyday civility. These pads are aimed at enthusiasts and daily drivers alike, offering a balance of stronger fade resistance and low dust compared with many OEM compounds. The set reviewed includes a premium stainless steel hardware kit where applicable and ceramic brake lubricant, so installation is straightforward and the initial bedding-in is easier than aftermarket pads that omit these essentials.

Key Features

• Carbon fiber infused formula: Provides higher temperature fade resistance than many stock pads for more consistent braking during spirited driving.
• Powder coated backing plate: Resists rust and corrosion to extend backing plate life and keep components moving freely.
• Premium rubberized shims: Dampen vibrations to deliver virtually noise-free braking for everyday comfort.
• Chamfered and slotted design: Matches original equipment geometry to reduce noise and help keep pad edges from glazing.
• Hardware and lubricant included: The kit includes a premium hardware kit where applicable and ceramic brake lubricant to simplify installation and reduce initial noise.

Who It's For

The Z23 rear pads are for Lexus and Toyota owners listed in the application notes who want a step up in braking performance over OE ceramic pads without moving to aggressive track compounds. They suit drivers who value lower dust, quieter operation, and more fade resistance during heavier use.

Drivers who demand race-level friction, extremely short track-only stopping distances, or who need a pad that mates with heavily modified brake systems should look at dedicated track pads instead, as the Z23 balances performance and daily drivability rather than maximizing one at the expense of the other.

Pros & Cons

Pros

• Improved brake performance and fade resistance compared with many OEM ceramic pads.
• Includes premium hardware and ceramic lubricant, making installation neater and reducing initial noise risks.
• Low brake dust and powder coated backing reduce corrosion and wheel cleanup time.

Cons

• Fit and noise reports are mixed for some Camry model years, so fitment should be double-checked for specific vehicle variants.

Specifications

Our Verdict

The Power Stop Z23 rear carbon ceramic pads are a sensible upgrade for owners of the listed Lexus and Toyota models who want better fade resistance, lower dust, and quieter braking without losing daily comfort. With hardware and lubricant included they represent solid value for drivers seeking improved braking behavior and easier installation, though buyers should confirm fitment for some Camry variants to avoid surprises.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do these pads come with hardware?
Yes, a premium stainless steel hardware kit is included where applicable along with ceramic brake lubricant.

Will they reduce brake dust?
Customers report noticeably lower brake dust compared with many OEM compounds thanks to the ceramic-based formula.

Are they noisy?
The design includes rubberized shims and chamfering to minimize noise, but a small number of users reported fit-related noise on certain Camry years so check fitment carefully.