Welcome to the ultimate showdown between two titans of the automotive brake system industry: TRW and Wagner.
In this comparative analysis, we’ll delve into their performance, quality, pricing, and much more.
Buckle up as we dissect the pros and cons, and ultimately decide which brand takes the crown in the world of braking systems.
TRW vs Wagner – Brand Comparison Table
| TRW | Wagner | |
| Country of Origin | United States | United States |
| Year Founded | 1901 | 1891 |
| Made In | mostly in United States, Czech Republic, China | mostly in China |
| Founder | David Kurtz and four other Cleveland residents | Herbert Appleton Wagner |
| Parent | ZF Friedrichshafen AG | Federal-Mogul Motorparts group |
| Overall Quality | high-quality and reliable performance | generally considered to be of respectable quality |
TRW Coated vs Wagner BD126407E Brake Rotors Comparison
In this section, I’m going to compare the most popular Series – Coated and BD126407E 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:
| TRW | Wagner | |
| Series | Coated | BD126407E |
| Material | High Carbon | Cast Iron |
| Coating | Anti-corrosion coating | Zinc coated |
| Type | Vented | Vented |
| Durability | Equivalent to Original Equipment (OE) standards and designed for a direct fit application | Balanced through spin balancing and precision cut to minimize vibrations, enhancing stability and control |
| Performance | Offers increased friction coefficient, durability against vibrations and noise, and enhanced thermal efficiency | The Original Equipment (OE)-specific vane design ensures powerful braking performance and efficient heat dissipation, while effectively managing noise, vibration, and harshness |
| Price | $116.20 | $53.98 |
| Warranty | cover defects in material and poor workmanship for 12 months | covers defects in material and workmanship for 24 Months/24,000 Miles |
| Stopping Power Rating (More Stars = More Stopping Power) | ⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
| Noise Levels Rating (Fewer Stars = Less Noise) | ⭐ | ⭐⭐ |
| Performance Over Stock Rating (More Stars = More Performance) | ⭐ | ⭐ |
TRW Ceramic vs Wagner QuickStop 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:
| TRW | Wagner | |
| Series | Ceramic | QuickStop Ceramic |
| Material | Ceramic | Ceramic |
| Performance | TRW takes pride in its 100% in-house production of brake pads, coupled with state-of-the-art technology, ensure the production of brake pads that meet the highest industry standards for quality, performance, and safety. | Wagner’s QuickStop Ceramic brake pads are meticulously crafted with OE-matched friction formulations and configurations, ensuring reliable, like-new braking performance and maximum durability. |
| Price | $21.47 – $160.36 | $11.21 – $144.42 |
| Warranty | covers defects in materials or workmanship for a period of 12 months from date of installation or 18 months from delivery | covers defects in materials or workmanship for a period of 24 months (24,000 miles) |
| 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
When choosing between brake pads, the experiences of other users can be vital. Here is a comparative analysis between TRW and Wagner, two popular brands in the market.
TRW
- TRW brake pads receive positive feedback from clients, being known for their quality and performance.
- Users report that TRW pads provide strong stopping power and produce 50% less brake dust, making them a cleaner option.
- Despite some users noticing a decrease in the initial bite, they appreciate the reduction in squeaking and the progressive stopping power. With good pressure on the brake pedal, these pads perform well.
Wagner
- Wagner brake parts, particularly the Wagner ThermoQuiet brake pads, come recommended by many users.
- Users mention that Wagner parts have a good bite and relatively low brake dust, making them a strong contender for TRW.
- The premium Wagner brake rotors are known for their enhanced performance and E-Shield protective electro-coating, which prevents corrosion on all non-braking surfaces.
- However, some users have reported issues with Wagner parts failing or producing noise, which can be a matter of concern.
It’s safe to say that both brands have their strengths and weaknesses.
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:
| TRW Rotors Prices⁽¹⁾ | Wagner Rotors Prices⁽²⁾ | |
| Lowest Priced Rotors | TRW Brake Rotor goes from $72.39 | Wagner Solid Rear Brake Rotor goes from $18.86 |
| Most Expensive Rotors | TRW Brake Rotor goes for $196.58 | Wagner Vented Front Brake Rotor goes for $385.06 |
Alternatively, you can see the brake pads prices for TRW and Wagner below:
| TRW Brake Pads Prices⁽¹⁾ | Wagner Brake Pads Prices⁽²⁾ | |
| Lowest Priced Pads | TRW Semi-Metallic Rear Disc Brake Pads go from $19.29 | Wagner QuickStop Semi-Metallic Rear Disc Brake Pads go from $10.77 |
| Most Expensive Pads | TRW Semi-Metallic Front Disc Brake Pads go for $351.82 | Wagner QuickStop Ceramic Front Disc Brake Pads go for $144.42 |
3. Pros and Cons
In this section, I’ve tried to showcase the most noticeable advantages and disadvantages for these two experts in brakes.
TRW
| Pros | Cons |
| ✔ TRW brake pads and rotors are often considered to be a good value for the price | ❌ Their pads can produce more brake dust than usual |
| ✔ Good all-around performance | |
| ✔ Range of options |
Wagner
| Pros | Cons |
| ✔ Reliability | ❌ Complains about brake dust and noise from some of their brake pads |
| ✔ Respectable quality | |
| ✔ Affordable pricing |
Which Is the Better Brand Overall?
Given the customer feedback and weighing the pros and cons, I’d lean slightly towards TRW.
Both brands offer good quality and performance, but TRW seems to edge out Wagner due to its all-around performance and less reported issues.
However, the difference is marginal, and both brands are worthy picks depending on specific needs and vehicle compatibility.