Brake pads ATE or Centric

Centric Premium is my preferred brand, I have used them for years and they don’t warp.

Been running “Centric Posi Quiet Ceramic Brake Pads” since 2020 and nearly zero dust.

Get a set of Centric PQ (posi-quiet) pads and rotors. Way better than any of the big chain brick and mortar store offerings for less $ too

I bought that centric kit for my 18 Mazda 3 last year, no issues.

Centric Posi Quiet Ceramics & 120 Series rotors from Tire Rack. Though not a CX5, my Mazda6 is running at 60k miles on this set.

Zimmerman Cross drilled rotors from FCP Euro with Centric posi quiet ceramic pads. So much less brake dust with these pads compared to stock.

stick with ATE or akebono. both good for their price. have ran both on my e39 and they work great with their respective rotors

FWIW I wound up with those Brembo front and Zimmerman coated rears with ATE ceramic pads and I’m very happy with it. To me the stock setup is grabby at low speeds and these are much smoother. I don’t feel like I’ve lost any stopping power. Huge difference in brake dust.

If you're looking for a solid set at a budget price, I've always had solid results from Centric and Power Stop brands on Rockauto. They're not high end by any means but they're cheaper than going OEM and they've always lasted at least 40,000+ miles. Also, if you go to Rockauto, do not be tempted by their economy category. The offerings in that section are very inexpensive but you absolutely get what you pay for. I went that route once out curiosity and the pads and rotors from the economy section were awful. Squealed and squeaked from day one and wore down insanely fast. Tried sound dampening sprays and re greasing. Never took the noise away.

I use Ate pads on mine, they feel great and have lasted fairly well but dust like CRAZY.