Stop-and-go commuting in a Mazdaspeed3 calls for pads that bite cold and stay quiet, and the EBC Ultimax2 UD9152 is built for that role on the 2007-2013 Mazda3 2.3 Turbo. The manufacturer describes the Ultimax2 as a high friction pad designed for general replacement use on cars, vans and SUV's. It is a total NON METALLIC pad containing ZERO steel fibre, which the manufacturer says makes it far less aggressive to cast iron rotors than fibre-heavy compounds.
The reason to pay for this pad over a bargain generic is the certification. Ultimax2 has been graded Code "N" by the USA brake ratings system, and the manufacturer also cites a GG friction rating for braking effect. It is fully R 90 approved, so it meets the European braking standard. The red Brake-In coating is designed for accelerated pad bed-in period, followed by progressive braking feel. Owners on user forums note that the Mazdaspeed3 front calipers are larger than those on the 2.0 and standard 2.3 Mazda3, so 2.0 pads won't fit, and buyers should confirm the application before ordering. The Mazdaspeed3 front pad replacement is a manageable job for a home mechanic. Owners on user forums list caliper pin torque at 19-22 ft/lbs and caliper bracket bolts at 58-75 ft-lbs, with wheel lugs at 80-90 ft-lbs.
Owners on user forums report that Mazdaspeed3 front calipers are larger than the 2.0 pads, and that 2.0 pads will not fit the Mazdaspeed3 calipers. Confirm your model and caliper before ordering.
The manufacturer positions the Ultimax2 as a daily-driver pad, not a track compound. For track work, check the manufacturer's other EBC compounds.
The manufacturer says the Brake-In coating speeds up bed-in, with consistent braking feel for the life of the pad. Perform a proper bed-in procedure after installation.
Owners on user forums describe the Mazdaspeed3 front job as using a 7mm hex key for the slider pins, two 17mm caliper bracket bolts, and a C-clamp or pad spreader to retract the piston. Pop off the dust caps and loosen the slider pins before removing the caliper. Bench-filling the caliper with fluid is a common tip for reducing air during bleeding. Clean and lubricate the slider pins, and torque the bracket bolts and pins to the figures above with a torque wrench.
