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The global automotive brake shims market attained a value of USD 3.19 Billion in 2025 and is projected to expand at a CAGR of 4.20% through 2035. The market is further expected to achieve USD 4.81 Billion by 2035. Rising EV adoption is pushing OEMs toward advanced brake shims that minimize noise, improve thermal stability, and support regenerative braking systems, creating new performance benchmarks across global automotive platforms.
The automotive brake shims market is witnessing an increasing number of government regulations related to vehicle noise emissions and the standards of braking efficiency. The governments in Europe and Asia are progressively setting the acoustic performance standards at a level that will require original equipment manufacturers to use higher quality shim technologies. Besides, vehicle fleet and shared vehicle providers are expecting brake components with a longer life in order to lessen the maintenance frequency, thereby increasing the demand for durable, high-performance shims.
The automotive brake shims market players are focusing on materials science for product differentiation and are investing in in multi-layer composite shims that are capable of reducing NVH (noise vibration harshness) in electrified vehicles. For example, in April 2025, Tenneco introduced low-emission brake technology using advanced materials and coatings, reducing particulate emissions, supporting Euro 7 compliance, and enhancing durability.
Moreover, changes in the design of automobiles and expectations from the suppliers are redefining the automotive brake shims market trends. Since the OEMs are interested in the manufacturing of lighter, corrosion-resistant, and thermally stable parts, the manufacturers are not limiting to the making of the steel shims only but are using hybrid materials which combine elastomers and adhesives. Besides promoting brake system life cycles that are longer through high-performance damping materials, firms like Freudenberg Group are also supporting the reduction of warranty claims. For instance, in March 2023, SSAB and Meneta introduced fossil-free steel brake components, reducing CO₂ emissions significantly, supporting sustainable automotive manufacturing, and advancing low-carbon supply chains globally.
Base Year
Historical Period
Forecast Period
Compound Annual Growth Rate
4.2%
Value in USD Billion
2026-2035
*this image is indicative*
Electric vehicle production is growing fast, changing how brake systems must perform. Brake noise is more noticeable in EVs than in gas-powered cars. This pushes automakers to use finely tuned shims, boosting the automotive brake shims market value. Companies like Brembo are launching new shim designs paired with quiet brake systems for EVs. Europe has set tighter rules on noise when vehicles pass by. These limits push companies to use layered damping materials. Suppliers now include acoustic testing tools early in design to help automakers meet standards and improve the driver experience, particularly in high-end and self-driving cars. In February 2024, Allied Nippon launched EV+ brake pads designed for electric vehicles, offering enhanced stopping power, ultra-low noise, improved durability, and advanced friction technology.
Companies are eventually shifting from single-steel shims to layered composites with rubber coatings and glue. Firms like Sumitomo Riko are improving rubber-coated shims for better vibration control during heavy braking. These upgrades matter most in SUVs and performance vehicles under hard braking. Automakers also want shims that stay strong across various temperatures, accelerating demand in the automotive brake shims market. In February 2024, NRS Brakes launched noise-canceling piston insert decoupling brake vibrations, eliminating squeal, improving performance, reducing rework, and enhancing customer satisfaction in braking systems.
Automotive original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) are increasingly pushing suppliers for localizing production, especially near electric vehicle assembly plants, to cut down on logistics costs and be sure of supply chain resilience. In India and Southeast Asia, for instance, ASK Automotive Limited is setting up new capacities to manufacture shims in line with domestic EV production targets. Besides, this automotive brake shims market trend is also allowing suppliers to get long-term contracts from OEMs, as close proximity often results in quicker design changes and customization, which is essential for the ever-changing EV platforms. In July 2025, DriveTec expanded braking range with EV and LCV products, featuring durable compounds, anti-corrosion shims, reduced noise, and extended lifespan performance.
Digital engineering instruments are revolutionizing the design and testing procedures of brake shims. Companies are using AI-based simulation systems for predicting noise qualities, thermal expansion, and wear patterns even before making physical prototypes, redefining the automotive brake shims market dynamics. For instance, Aisin Corporation is using digital twin technology in order to optimize the performance of brake components, including shims, for various car models. The governments of Japan and Germany, for example, which are supporting Industry 4.0 initiatives, are also reinforcing this shift towards simulation-led manufacturing. Aligning with this trend, in June 2025, Brembo adopted advanced simulation software to optimize brake system design, improving performance, reducing development time, and enhancing vehicle safety and efficiency.
Fleet operators including ride-hailing and logistics companies are increasingly demanding specified components such as brake shims as they are primarily concerned with durability and efficiency in maintenance. ZF Friedrichshafen AG is one of the players that collaborates with fleet operators in developing long-life braking systems with the improved durability of shims. Along with the focus on safety and maintenance of commercial fleets, regulatory bodies are also indirectly creating the demand for high-performance shims. This trend in the automotive brake shims market is making the vendors come up with products that are cost effective as well as capable of allowing longer service intervals which is the main requirement of high utilization vehicles. In February 2026, Delphi launched Professional+ brake pads for light commercial vehicles, offering longer lifespan, reduced wear, pre-fitted shims, and improved fleet braking performance.

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The EMR’s report titled “Global Automotive Brake Shims Market Report and Forecast 2026-2035” offers a detailed analysis of the market based on the following segments:
Market Breakup by Material Type
Key Insight: Material selection in the automotive brake shims market involves balancing durability with noise reduction performance. On one hand, metal shims dominate because of their robust strength and ability to withstand heavy loads, which is why they are used in passenger as well as commercial vehicles. On the other hand, rubber shims are gaining momentum as car manufacturers are more focused on making low-noise braking systems, especially in electric vehicles. Additionally, there are other materials like hybrid composites that fill the gap between performance and strength while also providing vibration damping. In April 2025, Brembo and Michelin developed AI-driven smart braking system using real-time tire data, improving stopping distance, stability, and enabling predictive, software-defined vehicle control.
Market Breakup by Vehicle Type
Key Insight: As per the automotive brake shims market report, passenger cars continue to lead the market in terms of production scale and the need for more comfort, which is driving the use of noise-reducing shims. Commercial vehicles are steadily increasing their share as fleet operation efficiency, including durability and maintenance, becomes a higher priority. Motorcycles, on the other hand, although contributing less to the total volume, demand for small and moderately priced shim products that are suitable for their lightweight braking systems. In January 2026, Brakes India launched Revia clutch line for commercial vehicles, featuring durable friction materials, extended service life, reduced wear, and improved fleet efficiency. The product offerings in each segment are evolving in their own way, as suppliers are developing exclusive designs based on different load conditions, usage patterns, and performance priorities.
Market Breakup by Market Type
Key Insight: Since the OEM demand results from the integration into the manufacturing processes and long-term supplier relationships, this segment largely drives the automotive brake shims market penetration. As vehicles need maintenance and replacement of parts at regular intervals, the aftermarket is also gaining stronger traction. The suppliers are changing their strategies to present more standardized and high-performance products that meet different vehicle requirements.
Market Breakup by Region
Key Insight: Different regional dynamics point to different growth factors in the global automotive brake shims market. Asia Pacific leads the market mainly because of its huge manufacturing base and cost advantages, making the region a key center not only for production but also for consumption. Europe, on the other hand, is growing fast, mainly under the impact of increasing regulatory requirements and innovative electric mobility technologies. North America, on the other hand, witnesses a steady demand owing to technological adoption and fleet needs. Latin America as well as the Middle East and Africa are growing gradually, mainly driven by betterment of automotive infrastructures and increase in vehicle ownership rates.

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By material type, metal shims dominate the market due to durability, thermal resistance, OEM preference
Metal-based brake shims offer top-notch structural stability and high-performance even during the most extreme thermal conditions, accelerating demand in the automotive brake shims market. Manufacturers like Meneta Group are coming up with stainless steel multi-layer shims combined with adhesive coatings for the purpose of lowering vibration without making the shims less rigid. These shims are being increasingly ordered for high-performance vehicles and large commercial fleets. Additionally, car manufacturers prefer metal shims as these are the best fit for automated assembly lines that produce high volumes of consistent products. In October 2025, Akebono expanded ultra-premium ceramic brake pad lines, adding new part numbers, increasing vehicle coverage, and enhancing performance, durability, and noise reduction.
Due to their sound-dampening properties, OEMs producing electric and hybrid vehicles are increasingly favoring rubber-based brake shims, driving their rapid rise in terms of popularity. For instance, companies like Trelleborg AB are working on elastomer-coated shims which are capable of absorbing micro-vibrations. These shims are being equipped with sophisticated polymer mixtures that remain cohesive at different temperatures, therefore the overall vehicle performance is not compromised. Besides this, the use of pressure-sensitive adhesives is bringing further ease of installation while shortening the overall assembly time for OEMs, accelerating the automotive brake shims market revenue.
By vehicle type, passenger cars register the largest share of the market revenue due to high production volumes globally
Passenger vehicles continue to dominate the automotive brake shims market as production keeps growing, and the demand for ride refinement is increasing. Companies including Nisshinbo Holdings Inc. are providing tailored shim solutions for compact, mid-size and luxury vehicles. Automobile manufacturers are using advanced shims to mitigate brake noise, especially in city driving where braking is frequent. Besides, several lightweight shim designs that can support fuel efficiency targets without sacrificing braking performance are emerging. In January 2025, ZF secured major OEM deal to supply brake-by-wire systems for nearly five million vehicles, enabling electro-mechanical braking, improved safety, and software-defined vehicle capabilities.
Further, commercial vehicles are registering increased use of sophisticated brake shims due to higher demands for durability and longer service intervals. Some companies, for example, ZF Friedrichshafen AG, are developing heavy-duty shim solutions for longer braking cycles and higher load conditions. Operators of vehicle fleets require components that can reduce the number of maintenance activities and enhance operational efficiency. Hence, suppliers are driven to provide innovations in wear-resistant materials and bonding technologies.
By market type, the OEM segment clocks in the dominant market share due to direct integration in vehicle manufacturing processes
With brake shims becoming a part of the automotive assembly lines, OEMs continue to be the leading source boosting demand in the automotive brake shims market. This incorporation makes sure that the shims are consistent and aligned with performance as per the original specifications. Aisin Corporation, for example, is one of the companies working with automakers to develop brake shim solutions that can satisfy the specific requirements of the braking system. Alongside these are tailor-made features, such as reduction of noise, resistance to heat, and strength. In March 2026, Setco expanded into brake disc segment with multi-brand portfolio exceeding 200 part numbers, covering passenger and commercial vehicles, targeting domestic and export markets.
The aftermarket sector is witnessing growth in the automotive brake shims market due to a number of factors like old vehicle parc and higher frequency maintenance cycles, mostly evident in developing countries. Companies like Tenneco Inc. roll out replacement shim kits that are simple to install and at the same time, fit a variety of vehicle models. Besides that, independent service providers are increasingly recommending the use of quality shims as a way of decreasing the number of noise complaints and at the same time, improving braking performance.
Asia Pacific secures the leading market position due to strong automotive manufacturing base
Asia Pacific dominates the automotive brake shims market by a high margin. High vehicle output and growing electric vehicle production fuel this market’s growth. Companies like ASK Automotive Limited are improving regional supply chains to serve rising OEM needs. China, India, and Japan boost production levels, with local suppliers that now prioritize cost-effective shims with strong performance. Government policies supporting local manufacturing push investment in modern production methods. Global firms are also teaming up with regional producers to speed up delivery and match vehicle specifications. In February 2026, Chery announced the first mass-produced pure electronic mechanical braking system, eliminating hydraulics, enabling faster response, improved safety, and supporting future autonomous vehicle architectures.
Europe shows fast-paced growth in the automotive brake shims market. Strict rules on brake noise and performance drive change as electric vehicle adoption is increasing demand for quiet braking parts. High-end braking systems attract more spending from automakers. OEMs work closely with component makers to speed up design phases. For example, in September 2024, Spanish manufacturer, ICER launched brake pad references for top-selling vehicles, enabling distributors to meet demand quickly and gain competitive advantage.
The global market is intensifying in competition as automotive brake shims companies are shifting their focus toward engineered differentiation rather than volume-driven supply. Leading players are dedicating resources to develop multi-layer material technologies, adhesive breakthroughs, and digital simulation tools to boost product performance. The suppliers' partnerships with OEMs are transforming into co-development models, which would allow them to introduce shims at the vehicle design phase. Expansion in regional manufacturing is another aspect that is being pushed to ensure quicker delivery and lessened supply chain risks.
Leading automotive brake shims market players see EV platforms as a key opportunity and are geared to develop shims that can deal with noise and thermal issues inherent with these vehicles. Moreover, aftermarket strategies are being refined through premium replacement kits and the expansion of digital distribution channels. The key to success is combining substance expertise with production flexibility so as to be able to supply braking components for highly complicated and customized systems.
Stanztechnik Schulte GmbH is a precision stamping technology company that was founded in 1961 and is based in Germany. The company manufactures metal brake shims that are of high accuracy in order to ensure consistent performance. It mainly serves OEM customers by providing them with tailor-made solutions that can be easily integrated into automated production lines in terms of durability and manufacturing efficiency.
Trelleborg AB, a Swedish company, started its operations in 1905. It offers polymer and elastomer-based products for automotive applications. The firm produces rubber-coated brake shims that provide better vibration, damping, and noise reduction. Owing to its knowledge in the field of materials, Trelleborg AB is able to meet the needs of electric vehicle manufacturers who require braking systems with less noise and higher efficiency.
Brickham Stamping Company, Inc. was established in 1923 and is based in the United States. It specializes in precision metal stamping of automobile parts. It offers sturdy brake shims made for both OEM and aftermarket purposes. It highlights the flexibility of its production capabilities, enabling rapid manufacturing of diverse products to support multiple vehicle platforms and evolving customer requirements.
Meneta Group was founded in 1953 and is based in Denmark. The company’s latest products are multi-layer shims with good damping features. It collaborates with OEMs to develop brake solutions that enhance performance, minimize noise, and align with next-generation vehicle requirements.
*Please note that this is only a partial list; the complete list of key players is available in the full report. Additionally, the list of key players can be customized to better suit your needs.*
Unlock the latest insights with our automotive brake shims market trends 2026 report. Discover regional growth patterns, consumer preferences, and key industry players. Stay ahead of competition with trusted data and expert analysis. Download your free sample report today and drive informed decisions in the market.
Stamped Steel Parts For Brake Systems
NVH Testing Protocols For Brake Assemblies
Aftermarket Brake Hardware Sourcing Trends
*While we strive to always give you current and accurate information, the numbers depicted on the website are indicative and may differ from the actual numbers in the main report. At Expert Market Research, we aim to bring you the latest insights and trends in the market. Using our analyses and forecasts, stakeholders can understand the market dynamics, navigate challenges, and capitalize on opportunities to make data-driven strategic decisions.*
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The market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 4.20% between 2026 and 2035.
Investing in advanced material R&D, strengthening OEM partnerships, expanding regional manufacturing, leveraging digital simulation tools, and developing EV-specific shim solutions while enhancing aftermarket distribution channels for sustained competitive advantage.
The technological advancements in the automotive industry, growing use of disk braking systems in order to achieve greater stopping power, and increasing inclination towards using brakes with low noise are expected to be the key trends guiding the growth of the industry.
The major regions in the industry are North America, Latin America, the Middle East and Africa, Europe, and the Asia Pacific.
Metal and rubber, among others are the different material types considered in the market report.
Motorcycles, passenger cars, and commercial vehicles are the significant vehicle types included in the market report.
OEM and aftermarket are the major market types mentioned in the report.
The key players in the market include Stanztechnik Schulte GmbH, Trelleborg AB, Brickham Stamping Company, Inc., and Meneta Group, among others.
In 2025, the market reached an approximate value of USD 3.19 Billion.
Balancing cost pressures with advanced material innovation remains difficult, while OEMs demand customization and faster delivery timelines. Companies also face challenges in meeting evolving EV-specific noise and performance requirements.
Explore our key highlights of the report and gain a concise overview of key findings, trends, and actionable insights that will empower your strategic decisions.
| REPORT FEATURES | DETAILS |
| Base Year | 2025 |
| Historical Period | 2019-2025 |
| Forecast Period | 2026-2035 |
| Scope of the Report |
Historical and Forecast Trends, Industry Drivers and Constraints, Historical and Forecast Market Analysis by Segment:
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| Breakup by Material Type |
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| Breakup by Vehicle Type |
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| Breakup by Market Type |
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| Breakup by Region |
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| Market Dynamics |
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| Competitive Landscape |
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| Companies Covered |
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| Report Price and Purchase Option | Explore our purchase options that are best suited to your resources and industry needs. |
| Delivery Format | Delivered as an attached PDF and Excel through email, with an option of receiving an editable PPT, according to the purchase option. |
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