An Owner's Guide to 1977-1981 Pontiac Tempest Disc Brake Pads
If you are looking for disc brake pads for a 1977-1981 Pontiac Tempest, you have likely discovered that no parts are available, and this guide explains why.
- The Pontiac Tempest was not produced between 1977 and 1981; the car you own is likely a Pontiac LeMans.
- To find the correct disc brake pads, you must search for parts that fit the 1977-1981 Pontiac LeMans.
- Verify your vehicle's model year, as brake pads for the 1977 (A-body) and 1978-1981 (G-body) LeMans are different.
- Always confirm your vehicle's model using the VIN or body emblems before purchasing any parts.
The Case of Mistaken Identity: Tempest vs. LeMans
If you believe you own a Pontiac Tempest from the model years 1977, 1978, 1979, 1980, or 1981, you have likely run into a significant problem when searching for parts: nothing is listed for your vehicle. This is because the Pontiac Tempest was not manufactured for the North American market during this period. The original production run for the Tempest ended in 1970. After 1970, the Tempest model and its lower-trim T-37 successor were phased out and absorbed into the Pontiac LeMans lineup.
For the 1977-1981 model years, the vehicle you most likely own is a Pontiac LeMans or Grand LeMans. These models were Pontiac's mid-size offering and shared a heritage with the earlier Tempest, leading to common confusion. To purchase the correct brake pads, you must search for parts fitting a 1977-1981 Pontiac LeMans.
Confirm Your Vehicle Model
Before ordering any parts, it is essential to verify your vehicle's exact model. You can do this by checking the emblems on the trunk and fenders, or by decoding the Vehicle Identification Number (VIN). This will ensure you are searching for LeMans parts and not Tempest parts, which will save you time and prevent ordering mistakes.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Brake Pads for a 1977-1981 LeMans
Once you have confirmed you have a Pontiac LeMans, you can find a variety of aftermarket disc brake pads. No new OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) pads are available for a vehicle of this age, so aftermarket is your only option. Modern aftermarket pads offer significant improvements in stopping power, noise reduction, and brake dust compared to the original technology.
Brake pads for the 1977-1981 LeMans fall into two main categories based on the vehicle's platform change:
- 1977 Models: These are built on the GM A-body platform.
- 1978-1981 Models: These are built on the downsized GM G-body platform.
It is critical to buy pads specific to your model year, as the A-body and G-body pads are different and not interchangeable.
Brake Pad Material Options
For a classic car like the LeMans, you have two primary material choices:
- Semi-Metallic: These pads offer a strong initial bite and good heat dissipation. They are a reliable choice for daily driving and are often more affordable. Brands like Wagner, Raybestos, and Bendix offer quality semi-metallic options.
- Ceramic: Ceramic pads are the best option for drivers who prioritize quiet operation and clean wheels. They produce significantly less brake dust and are very quiet, making them ideal for cruising and car shows. Brands like PowerStop offer popular ceramic brake kits.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Why can't I find parts for a 1979 Pontiac Tempest?
The Pontiac Tempest was not produced between 1971 and 1986 in North America. If your car is a 1979 model, it is almost certainly a Pontiac LeMans.
What is the difference between the Tempest and LeMans in this era?
In the 1960s, the LeMans was an upscale trim package for the Tempest. After 1970, Pontiac retired the Tempest name and LeMans became the standalone name for its mid-size car line.
Are there any recalls for 1977-1981 Tempest brakes?
No recalls exist for a 1977-1981 Pontiac Tempest because the vehicle was not manufactured. You would need to search for any potential recalls specific to the Pontiac LeMans of your model year.
Should I replace my rotors at the same time as the pads?
Yes. For the best performance and safety, you should always replace brake rotors when you install new pads. Installing new pads on old, worn rotors can cause noise, poor stopping power, and rapid wear of the new pads.
Technical Specifications
This guide addresses a case of mistaken vehicle identity. No parts or specifications are available for a 1977-1981 Pontiac Tempest.
The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.