Welcome to the ultimate face-off, as we delve into the world of automotive brake systems, pitting ACDelco against Duralast.
From performance and quality to prices and unique selling points, we’ll dissect every detail, giving you the insider’s scoop on these industry giants.
So buckle up, it’s time to find out who really puts the brakes on the competition!
ACDelco vs Duralast – Brand Comparison Table
| ACDelco | Duralast | |
| Country of Origin | United States | United States |
| Year Founded | 1974 | 1979 |
| Made In | mostly in China | mostly in United States, China, Mexico |
| Founder | William C. Durant | Pitt Hyde |
| Parent | General Motors | AutoZone, Inc. |
| Overall Quality | great quality when it comes to brake pads & shoes products | great quality if you opt in for their Gold series |
ACDelco Gold vs Duralast Gold Brake 55097DG Brake Rotors Comparison
In this section, I’m going to compare the most popular Series – Gold and Gold Brake 55097DG from both brands by various product specs & features, prices, warranty, durability, performance, stopping power and noise levels.
Here is a detailed comparison table showcasing what each brand has to offer:
| ACDelco | Duralast | |
| Series | Gold | Gold Brake 55097DG |
| Material | Cast Iron | Iron Alloy |
| Coating | Black E-Coat | Fully coated |
| Type | Vented | Vented |
| Durability | Durable and has high-quality manufacturing that ensures smooth operation | Smooth stopping with no pedal pulsation and enhanced durability |
| Performance | Provides reliable and consistent performance | The high-carbon steel formulation effectively reduces noise and dissipates heat |
| Price | $19.45 – $343.00 | $106.99 |
| Warranty | covers defects in material and workmanship for 24 Months/24,000 Miles | 3-year, full-replacement warranty |
| Stopping Power Rating (More Stars = More Stopping Power) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Noise Levels Rating (Fewer Stars = Less Noise) | ⭐ | ⭐ |
| Performance Over Stock Rating (More Stars = More Performance) | ⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐ |
ACDelco Gold Ceramic vs Duralast Elite Copper Free Ceramic Brake Pads Comparison
In the following section, I’m going to compare the most renowned Brake Pads series from both brands by various product specs & features, prices, warranty, performance, stopping power, brake dust accumulation and noise levels.
Here is a detailed comparison table showcasing what each brand has to offer:
| ACDelco | Duralast | |
| Series | Gold Ceramic | Elite Copper Free Ceramic |
| Material | Ceramic | Ceramic |
| Performance | ACDelco Gold Ceramic Brake Pads excel in performance, delivering superior quietness and durability when compared to semi-metallic alternatives in the market. | These next-generation pads are designed to last up to three times longer, ensuring exceptional durability for your vehicle. The patented transfer layer technology safeguards both the brake pads and rotors, minimizing wear and tear. |
| Price | $17.60 – $155.85 | $38.99 – $81.49 |
| Warranty | covers defects in material and workmanship for 24-Month/Unlimited Mile Warranty | Limited-Lifetime |
| Dust Levels Rating (Fewer Stars = Less Dust) | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐ |
| Stopping Power Rating (More Stars = More Stopping Power) | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Noise Levels Rating (Fewer Stars = Less Noise) | ⭐ | ⭐ |
| Performance Over Stock Rating (More Stars = More Performance) | ⭐ | ⭐⭐ |
Differences
1. Overall Performance and Quality
Comparing the performance and quality of ACDelco and Duralast brake parts can provide valuable insights.
Here are some key points I’ve gathered from user reviews:
ACDelco
- Users say the brake pads are reliable and of good quality.
- The Gold rotors are described as quiet and smooth, providing excellent stopping power.
- The AC/Delco Advantage rotors have been used by customers with no issues reported.
- The ACDelco Gold disc brakes and new AC Delco pads are highly recommended by a satisfied client.
Duralast
- Performance of the brake parts is mixed; some find them suitable for daily use, others recommend different brands.
- The Duralast gold ceramic brake pads are praised for their smoothness and speed, and are viewed as a good deal.
- One user finds the brakes and rotors satisfactory.
- However, a user reports that Duralast Gold rotors and pads produce a squealing sound when stopping.
In conclusion, ACDelco seems to have a more consistent positive feedback for their brake parts, with a focus on their reliability and quality.
Duralast, on the other hand, has mixed reviews with some users experiencing issues, but others finding them a good value for the price.
2. Rotors and Brake Pads Prices
I’ve gathered some interesting information regarding the brake rotor prices for both brands. You can take a look at them in the table below:
| ACDelco Rotors Prices⁽¹⁾ | Duralast Rotors Prices⁽²⁾ | |
| Lowest Priced Rotors | ACDelco Silver Solid Rear Brake Rotor goes from $6.25 | Duralast Brake Rotor 31263 goes from $22.99 |
| Most Expensive Rotors | ACDelco Genuine GM Parts Front Driver Side Brake Rotor goes for $4,082.84 | Duralast Brake Rotor 70172DL goes for $1001.99 |
Alternatively, you can see the brake pads prices for ACDelco and Duralast below:
| ACDelco Brake Pads Prices⁽¹⁾ | Duralast Brake Pads Prices⁽²⁾ | |
| Lowest Priced Pads | ACDelco Silver Semi-Metallic Rear Disc Brake Pads go from $14.07 | Duralast Ceramic Brake Pads D223 go from $15.49 |
| Most Expensive Pads | ACDelco 171-1254 – Genuine GM Parts Organic Front Disc Brake Pads go for $758.23 | Duralast Gold Ceramic Brake Pads DG1897 go for $162.99 |
3. Pros and Cons
In this section, I’ve tried to showcase the most noticeable advantages and disadvantages for these two experts in brakes.
ACDelco
| Pros | Cons |
| ✔ Good all-around performance | ❌ Users report that ACDelco brake pads may produce high amounts of dust |
| ✔ ACDelco offers a range of brake products in three tiers: Advantage, Professional, and GM Original Equipment | |
| ✔ Most of their lineup is relatively affordable |
Duralast
| Pros | Cons |
| ✔ Good for daily use | ❌ Users report that Duralast Gold brake pads may produce more brake dust than other models |
| ✔ Affordable | |
| ✔ All Auto Zone (Duralast Brand) brake pads have a limited lifetime warranty |
Which Is the Better Brand Overall?
Based on the user feedback and pros and cons, it appears ACDelco has a slight edge due to consistent positive reviews and reliable performance across a range of products.
While Duralast is also considered good for daily use and offers affordability, the mixed reviews and potential for more brake dust give ACDelco the overall advantage.