The Hawk Performance HB393F.665 is a front disc brake pad set built on the brand's HPS (High Performance Street) compound, with a pad thickness of .665 inch. The manufacturer positions these pads against OE pads for stronger stopping power, better pedal feel, higher thermal capability, and less dust. That heat tolerance is the main reason to pay more than a basic replacement pad. Spirited street driving pushes stock pads toward fade, and this compound is meant to resist it. The pad is also described as gentle on rotors and extended pad life, with consistent brake release characteristics.
Fitment is the first thing to verify. The manufacturer's listing includes examples such as 2021 Civic 1.5 and 2.0 trims, 2007 to 2011 Accord 2.4 models, and 2007 to 2011 Element models, and each entry is marked as an OE-including-shims-and-springs application. Hawk pads are designed to work with iron or metal rotors, and the manufacturer states that its compounds are not compatible with carbon-ceramic rotors. Owners searching for a Honda Civic front brake pad upgrade or an Accord 2.4 HPS street pad should check their exact year, trim, and engine against the manufacturer's vehicle selector.
For the DIY owner, this is a front-axle job that typically takes a couple of hours with jack stands, a C-clamp, and a torque wrench. Lift the car on stands, remove the caliper bolts, hang the caliper with wire so the brake hose is not stressed, and compress the pistons before seating the new pads. Bed the new pads in against the rotors afterward, following a slow-stop and moderate-stop sequence in a safe area. Confirm torque values and hardware reuse with the manufacturer before starting.
No. The manufacturer states that its HPS compounds are not compatible with carbon-ceramic rotors and are designed for iron or metal rotors.
The manufacturer lists fitment by year, make, model, trim, and engine, and the listed applications are marked as OE including shims and springs. Use the manufacturer's vehicle selector to confirm your exact application before ordering.
This is a moderate-difficulty front brake job suited to a home mechanic who has done caliper work before. Plan on jack stands, a C-clamp or caliper piston tool, a torque wrench, and brake cleaner. Common gotchas include a caliper hanging by its hose, pistons that will not retract without a clamp, and pads installed without the correct shims or hardware. Work one side at a time so you can use the untouched side as a reference, and bed the pads in after installation.
