The Pad Set Suspension System 9420 is a brake pad assembly designed for specific vehicle models and suspension setups

The Pad Set Suspension System 9420 is a complete brake pad assembly — not a suspension component despite its name — that combines friction material, backing plates, and hardware into a single replacement unit. It is engineered for vehicles that use a particular brake caliper geometry and suspension configuration, which is why the "9420" designation matters: it tells you this set fits only certain makes, model years, and brake systems.

The "suspension system" part of the name refers to how the pads are mounted and held in place within the caliper, not to your vehicle's suspension. The assembly includes the pad backing plate (the metal base), the friction material bonded to it, and any shims or anti-rattle hardware that comes pre-installed. When you order this part, you get everything needed to replace both the inboard and outboard pads at one axle.

This is a wear item. Brake pads thin over time as friction material is consumed during braking. When your pads reach the minimum thickness — usually marked by a wear indicator that makes noise or triggers a warning light — you replace the entire pad set rather than individual pads.

Key Takeaways

  • The Pad Set Suspension System 9420 is a brake pad assembly for specific vehicle models; the part number tells you whether it fits your car.
  • It includes both pads, backing plates, and any factory shims or hardware, so you do not need to buy components separately.
  • You need this part when your brake pads wear down to the minimum thickness, usually signaled by a wear indicator light or noise.
  • Installation requires removing the wheel, unbolting the caliper, and sliding out the old pads before inserting the new set — a task many owners handle themselves or have a shop perform.
  • Using the correct part number is critical because brake pads must match your caliper type and rotor diameter, or braking performance and safety suffer.

How to identify if your vehicle uses the 9420 pad set

The only reliable way to confirm the 9420 is correct for your vehicle is to check your owner's manual or the parts diagram for your specific year, make, and model. Brake pad part numbers are not universal — a 9420 designed for a 2015 Honda Civic will not fit a 2015 Toyota Corolla, even though both are compact sedans.

If you have the vehicle identification number (VIN), a parts counter at a dealership or independent shop can look up the exact pad set your car needs. You can also remove a wheel and photograph the caliper and rotor to show a technician, who can cross-reference the brake system type. Many online parts retailers also have VIN lookup tools that will show you the correct part number for your vehicle.

Do not assume all brake pads are interchangeable. Using the wrong pad set can result in poor braking, noise, premature wear, or damage to the rotor. The 9420 designation exists precisely because it is engineered for a particular brake system geometry.

What is included in a pad set suspension system assembly

A complete pad set typically includes two pad assemblies — one for the inboard side of the caliper (closest to the wheel) and one for the outboard side (facing the road). Each pad assembly consists of a steel backing plate with friction material bonded to the surface that contacts the rotor.

Many pad sets, including suspension system designs, also come with shims — thin metal or rubber layers that sit between the backing plate and the caliper piston or bracket. Shims reduce noise and vibration during braking. Some sets include anti-rattle clips or springs that hold the pads firmly in place and prevent them from moving side to side.

The friction material itself varies by pad type. OEM (original equipment manufacturer) pads are designed to match your vehicle's original specifications. Aftermarket pads may offer different performance characteristics — some prioritize quiet operation, others prioritize stopping power or longevity. The 9420 designation tells you the physical fit; the friction compound is a separate choice based on your driving needs and budget.

When to replace your brake pads

Most vehicles have a wear indicator — a small metal tab on the inboard pad that touches the rotor when the pad material is nearly gone. When this tab makes contact, it creates a squealing or scraping noise during braking. This noise is intentional and signals that replacement is due soon, usually within the next few hundred miles.

Some vehicles have electronic wear sensors that trigger a warning light on the dashboard. This light appears when the pad thickness drops below a threshold, typically around 2 to 3 millimeters. If you see this light, plan to replace the pads within a week or two of normal driving.

You do not have to wait for noise or a warning light. Many owners have their pads inspected during routine maintenance — a technician can measure pad thickness and recommend replacement before wear becomes critical. Replacing pads before they are completely worn protects your rotors from damage and maintains consistent braking performance.

Installation and labor considerations

Replacing a brake pad set is a straightforward job for someone with basic mechanical skill and the right tools. The process involves removing the wheel, unbolting the caliper (usually two bolts), sliding the old pads out, and sliding the new pads in. The caliper piston may need to be compressed slightly to make room for thicker new pads, which requires a C-clamp or a dedicated brake tool.

If you choose to do this work yourself, you will need a jack, jack stands, a wrench or socket set, and a way to compress the caliper piston. You do not need to remove the caliper from the vehicle entirely unless you are also servicing the rotor or caliper itself. Many owners complete a pad replacement in 30 minutes to an hour per axle.

If you take your vehicle to a shop, labor time for a pad set replacement typically ranges from 0.5 to 1.5 hours per axle, depending on the shop's rate and whether additional work is needed. Some shops recommend replacing pads on both front axles at the same time to maintain even braking, though this is not always necessary if only one axle is worn.

OEM versus aftermarket pad sets

OEM pads are made by or for the vehicle manufacturer and match the original specifications exactly. They are typically more expensive but offer predictable performance and noise characteristics. If you want your brakes to feel and sound exactly as they did when new, OEM is the safest choice.

Aftermarket pads are made by third-party manufacturers and often cost less than OEM. Quality varies widely. Budget pads may wear faster or produce more noise. Premium aftermarket pads from established brands often perform as well as OEM pads and may offer advantages like longer life or quieter operation. The 9420 part number applies to both OEM and aftermarket versions — what matters is that the part number matches your vehicle.

When shopping for a replacement pad set, compare the friction material type (organic, semi-metallic, or ceramic), the expected lifespan, and customer reviews. A pad set that costs 20 percent less but wears out twice as fast is not a bargain.

Rotor condition and pad replacement

When you replace brake pads, inspect the rotor — the disc that the pads squeeze against. If the rotor surface is smooth and shows no deep scoring or rust, you can reuse it. If it has grooves, pitting, or rust that does not clean off, the rotor should be replaced or resurfaced at the same time.

A rotor that is too thin cannot dissipate heat effectively and may warp or crack. Most rotors have a minimum thickness stamped on the edge. A shop can measure the rotor and tell you whether it is safe to keep. Replacing pads without addressing a damaged rotor can result in poor braking, noise, and premature pad wear.

Some shops automatically resurface rotors when pads are replaced. Others only do so if the rotor is damaged. Ask your shop what their standard practice is, and whether resurfacing is included in the labor quote or charged separately.

Frequently Asked Questions

How do I know if the 9420 pad set is the right one for my car?

Check your owner's manual or use your VIN at a parts retailer or dealership. The part number must match your vehicle's year, make, model, and brake system type. Installing the wrong pad set can compromise braking safety.

Can I replace just the front pads or just the rear pads?

Yes. Front and rear pads wear at different rates depending on your vehicle's weight distribution and braking system design. You can replace one axle at a time. However, some shops recommend replacing pads on both fronts or both rears together to maintain even braking pressure.

What does the squealing noise mean when I brake?

A squealing noise usually indicates the wear indicator tab is touching the rotor, signaling that pad replacement is due. This is normal and intentional. If the noise is a grinding sound instead, the pads may be completely worn and the metal backing plate is contacting the rotor — stop driving and replace the pads when ready to avoid rotor damage.

Do I need to bleed the brakes after replacing pads?

No. Bleeding the brake system is only necessary if you open the hydraulic lines or replace the master cylinder, caliper, or wheel cylinder. Replacing pads does not require bleeding because you are not disturbing the fluid system.

How long do brake pads usually last?

Lifespan varies widely based on driving habits, vehicle weight, and pad material. Most pads last between 25,000 and 70,000 miles. Aggressive braking, frequent city driving, or towing shortens pad life. Highway driving with gentle braking extends it. Check your pads during routine maintenance rather than relying on a mileage estimate.