Brake pads EBC or Akebono

I use these pads. They only make noise when its really cold out. After I drive/brake for a few minutes the noise goes away. I use these pads because I have white wheels. I get roughly an extra week and a half before my wheels look really bad. That alone was worth it to me. Rotors still look fine as well. Hope this helps.

my solution to the braking challenge was replacing both front & rear with Slotted / cross drilled performance rotors from ECS. I used Akebono Pads and i now have excellent brake response...

Have always used Centric Premium rotors with Akebono ProAct ceramic brake pads to good effect. Good brake bite, low dust, low noise, and longevity.

Akebono are probably the best quality pads that you can get from Rockauto.

Now I'm using ebc red stuff pads and they make less dust than the hawks.

Currently running this setup minus the master bracket on VR6 brakes. EBC reds are good for low dust. I like them better than Hawks for that. When they are cold they can take a bit of warming up.

Ive always had good results with Akebono for a mild upgrade from OE, they are now OE supplier for Porsche so thats a testament to their quality.

Aftermarket pads work just fine. Just don't get the cheapest brake pads you can find and you'll be okay. The OEM pads are very good, and I buy them from the dealer and put them on myself to save a lot of money. If you want to keep OEM feel Akebono makes most of Toyota's pads.

My stock rear brakes never made any noise. Recently replaced rotors and pads - went with Akebono Euro Ceramic - and now have the same "clunk" you describe. Usually only first thing in the morning when I back out of my driveway and then roll forward and brake.

I also bought EBC YellowStuff last year, and they promptly broke several springs which lead to hugely annoying rattle noises when driving over bumps.