The global automotive brake shims market is projected to reach USD 390 million in 2025 and expand to USD 640 million by 2035, growing at a steady CAGR of 5.1% during the forecast period. This growth is primarily driven by the automotive industry's increasing focus on noise reduction, ride comfort, and brake system performance.
Brake shims serve as critical components within disc braking systems, helping minimize noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH), particularly in passenger vehicles and electric vehicles (EVs). As global emission and noise regulations tighten, automakers are actively investing in advanced shim materials and designs to ensure compliance and enhance customer satisfaction.
In terms of materials, rubber-based brake shims are expected to lead the market in 2025, capturing the largest share due to their superior acoustic insulation and cost efficiency. These materials offer excellent damping characteristics, which significantly reduce brake squeal and deliver smoother operation.
Among applications, passenger vehicles are set to dominate with a 48.2% market share in 2025, driven by increased vehicle production and consumer preference for quieter cabins. The proliferation of disc brakes in compact and mid-sized vehicles is further accelerating the adoption of multi-layered shim technologies, especially in regions like Asia Pacific and Latin America where OEM production is expanding.
According to Andreas Weller, CEO of DRiV Incorporated (a Tenneco company), “As consumers expect quieter and smoother rides, our advanced shim technologies are helping OEMs and aftermarket customers meet evolving acoustic performance requirements globally.” His remark reflects the industry's strategic shift toward NVH-enhancing solutions that provide tangible performance and comfort benefits. Market players are investing in innovations such as thermoset and pressure-sensitive adhesive (PSA) materials, which enhance thermal resistance, bonding strength, and shim durability.
Additionally, aftermarket demand is growing steadily as consumers seek to replace worn-out brake components with high-quality, noise-reducing alternatives. With rising vehicle parc and replacement cycles, brake shim suppliers are expanding their product lines and regional presence, making this market an essential segment in the global automotive components industry.
Market Metrics
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Industry Size (2025E) | USD 390 million |
| Industry Value (2035F) | USD 640 million |
| CAGR (2025 to 2035) | 5.1% |
The automotive brake shims market is being led by rubber materials due to their superior damping and insulation properties, making them ideal for diverse vehicle platforms. Among applications, passenger vehicles remain the dominant segment, driven by rising consumer demand for noise reduction and enhanced ride comfort in both conventional and electric models.
In 2025, rubber material is expected to hold the highest market share of 34.5% among all materials used in the automotive brake shims market. This leadership is due to its superior vibration-damping, thermal insulation, and noise reduction capabilities. Rubber is effective across a wide temperature range, which enhances braking performance in both standard and high-performance vehicles. Rubber-based brake shims have been widely adopted by OEMs such as Toyota, Hyundai, and Honda, especially in electric vehicles (EVs) and hybrid platforms to meet Noise, Vibration, and Harshness (NVH) regulations.
Tier-1 suppliers, including Trelleborg and Nisshinbo, have expanded their rubber shim portfolios to serve different vehicle classes. Its compatibility with ceramic and metallic brake pads has made it a versatile choice. Additionally, rubber’s cost-efficiency and extended life cycle have supported its widespread use in both emerging and developed automotive markets.
In 2025, passenger vehicles are projected to dominate the automotive brake shims market with a 48.2% market share. This is primarily due to the high production volumes of passenger cars and growing demand for cabin noise reduction, especially in electric vehicles (EVs) and luxury sedans. Automotive OEMs like BMW, Ford, and Tesla are integrating brake shims to ensure quieter braking and improved ride comfort. The widespread adoption of disc brakes in compact and sub-compact vehicles further drives shim demand in this segment.
Leading suppliers such as Tenneco and Meneta Group have launched multi-layered acoustic shims specifically designed for passenger vehicles, offering better vibration control and thermal resistance. Growing exports from automotive manufacturing hubs such as China, India, and Mexico are also fueling demand for standardized shim solutions. As consumers increasingly prefer quiet, refined driving experiences and urbanization accelerates, passenger vehicles will continue to lead in brake shim adoption.
The automotive brake shims market is driven by demand for quieter rides, growing EV adoption, and digital integration. However, rising material costs and complex system compatibility hinder scalability. Smart brake technologies and predictive maintenance present new opportunities, while cybersecurity risks linked to connected components remain a significant threat to widespread adoption.
Quiet braking systems drive demand for enhanced shim technologies
The rising need for noise-free braking is a major driver of the automotive brake shims market. As automakers prioritize ride comfort, especially in electric vehicles (EVs) where mechanical noise is more apparent, the adoption of high-performance shims is accelerating. Brake shims help reduce noise, vibration, and harshness (NVH), playing a vital role in braking efficiency and vehicle comfort.
Premium brands are using composite and elastomeric materials to develop advanced shims that address brake squeal, improve thermal insulation, and meet stringent performance standards. Additionally, OEMs are looking to minimize warranty claims and improve customer satisfaction by implementing these technologies across more vehicle platforms. The disc brake system expansion and global vehicle production growth further reinforce this trend.
Material cost fluctuations and integration complexity restrict scalability
Unpredictable raw material prices, particularly for steel and composite materials, are posing significant challenges for shim manufacturers. These fluctuations directly affect production costs and can squeeze profit margins, especially for small and mid-sized players. Another hurdle is the integration of shims into increasingly complex brake system architectures, requiring customized designs that are not easily standardized across vehicle types.
The lack of universal specifications complicates manufacturing and slows adoption in cost-sensitive markets, such as entry-level vehicle segments. Moreover, smaller players struggle to meet the engineering demands necessary for mass production, often facing delays in product approvals and increased R&D expenditure.
AI-powered diagnostics and smart systems offer new growth pathways
The integration of AI-driven predictive maintenance systems into modern vehicles has opened up new growth opportunities for smart brake shims. These systems can now monitor shim wear, temperature variations, and performance degradation in real time, enabling proactive maintenance and reducing unexpected failures.
Particularly in connected vehicles and EVs, smart shims are being developed for compatibility with brake-by-wire systems, enhancing braking responsiveness and driver safety. Some companies are embedding sensors into shims to support performance analytics, fleet diagnostics, and digital twin modeling during R&D. These innovations are attracting interest from premium automakers looking to offer intelligent braking solutions that align with autonomous vehicle development and long-term fleet optimization.
Cybersecurity vulnerabilities challenge the adoption of connected shims
As smart brake shims become increasingly connected to vehicle control units, they are also exposed to heightened cybersecurity threats. Vulnerabilities in shim sensors or interfaces could allow unauthorized access, potentially disrupting braking performance or compromising vehicle safety. These risks are prompting strict oversight by regulatory bodies such as NHTSA and ENISA, which mandate compliance with encryption standards, firmware validation, and secure communication protocols.
Failure to meet these requirements may result in delayed product certification, limited market access, or even recalls. Consumer trust could also decline if data privacy or system integrity issues surface. As automotive cybersecurity standards evolve, ensuring robust protection mechanisms will be essential for gaining traction in the next-gen braking systems space.
The automotive brake shims market study identifies top trends across the United States, the United Kingdom, Germany, Japan, and South Korea. Manufacturers operating in these key markets can craft targeted strategies based on material innovation, noise control priorities, and the electrification of the vehicle fleet. The chart below highlights the projected CAGR for each of these leading countries during the forecast period.
| Countries | Projected CAGR (2025 to 2035) |
|---|---|
| United States | 5.2% |
| United Kingdom | 5% |
| European Region | 5.1% |
| Japan | 5% |
| South Korea | 5.2% |
The automotive brake shims market in the United States is projected to grow at a CAGR of 5.2% through 2035, driven by advanced automotive technology, rising demand for quiet braking systems, and a thriving aftermarket ecosystem. USA-based OEMs and Tier-1 suppliers are actively deploying multi-layered composite shims and metal-rubber laminates to meet evolving NVH (Noise, Vibration, Harshness) standards and consumer comfort preferences.
Growing EV adoption, along with stringent vehicle safety regulations, is also encouraging the use of thermally resilient and acoustically superior shims. The aftermarket is expanding rapidly, supported by vehicle parc growth and premium replacement parts demand. As a global innovation hub, the USA continues to influence brake shim design, material innovation, and regulatory benchmarking, reinforcing its leadership in automotive component engineering.
The United Kingdom's automotive brake shims market is expected to grow at a steady 5% CAGR through 2035, driven by the rapid penetration of electric and hybrid vehicles (EVs and HEVs). These vehicles, which lack engine noise, expose even minor brake sounds-fueling investment in noise-dampening shim materials. Automakers and aftermarket players are actively adopting lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and elastomeric shim designs to comply with the UK’s strict vehicle noise regulations.
The government’s support for green transportation and EV infrastructure is further accelerating the transition to advanced NVH solutions. Additionally, local OEMs and component suppliers are collaborating with universities and materials R&D labs to develop next-gen shims tailored for urban mobility and sustainable vehicle platforms, making the UK a fertile ground for brake system innovation.
The automotive brake shims market in the European Union is poised for consistent growth, expanding at a CAGR of 5.1% from 2025 to 2035. This trajectory is primarily shaped by stringent safety and noise emission regulations, which are prompting automakers to adopt advanced braking technologies. Manufacturers across the EU, including industry giants like BMW, Volkswagen, and Stellantis, are increasingly integrating multi-layered and thermally resilient brake shims to improve performance and cabin comfort.
A significant boost is also coming from the surge in electric vehicle (EV) and hybrid vehicle production, where the absence of engine noise amplifies the need for noise-dampening brake components. As a result, OEMs are prioritizing lightweight, corrosion-resistant, and high-durability shims that align with regenerative braking requirements in EV platforms.
Demand for automotive brake shims in Japan is set to expand at a 5% CAGR through 2035, backed by the country’s commitment to acoustic innovation and precision engineering. Leading Japanese OEMs such as Toyota and Nissan, along with material giants like Sumitomo Riko, are heavily investing in metal-resin laminates and multi-functional composites to achieve lower NVH levels in hybrid and urban electric vehicles. Brake noise minimization has become a top priority, especially in densely populated cities where silent operation is valued.
Japan’s longstanding leadership in R&D collaboration between academia, industry, and government agencies ensures continuous product improvement. Local regulations encouraging the use of sustainable and durable materials further shape product design. The focus on lightweight, high-performance brake systems positions Japan as a trendsetter in the global brake shims landscape.
Sales of automotive brake shims in South Korea is forecast to grow at a CAGR of 5.2%, one of the highest globally. This expansion is fueled by the country’s booming electric vehicle production and stringent automotive safety standards. Homegrown OEMs like Hyundai and Kia, along with component suppliers such as Mando Corporation, are investing in high-performance shims with enhanced thermal resistance and noise control. South Korea’s government supports EV innovation through tax incentives and R&D grants, boosting the demand for smart brake technologies that integrate with ADAS and brake-by-wire systems.
Emphasis on lightweight, sensor-compatible shims for fleet diagnostics and predictive maintenance is also growing. As Korea scales its leadership in connected mobility and autonomous driving ecosystems, demand for next-generation brake shims is expected to rise in both OEM and aftermarket channels.
The automotive brake shims market is shaped by a moderately consolidated competitive landscape, with dominance maintained by Tier 1 suppliers such as Bosch, Brembo, Continental, Akebono, and Federal-Mogul. These leading companies have secured their positions through strong R&D capabilities, well-established OEM relationships, and extensive global distribution networks. Their strategic focus has been on the use of advanced materials, including viscoelastic polymers and rubber-coated shims, to meet rising demands for noise reduction, thermal management, and durability in braking systems.
On the other hand, Tier 2 players like Meneta, NUCAP, and Super Circle have carved out competitive advantages through specialization in aftermarket solutions and customized OEM collaborations. Their flexibility allows them to quickly respond to niche customer needs, offering value-added solutions that larger players may overlook. However, entry into the market remains challenging due to high investment requirements in product testing, compliance with global safety standards, and the critical nature of securing OEM certifications.
While the market is moderately consolidated, opportunities exist for smaller or regional players that can deliver technically differentiated products, especially in segments focused on electrification, urban mobility, and lightweight vehicle platforms.
Recent Developments in the Automotive Brake Shims Industry
In January 2025, Uno Minda introduced a new range of Heavy Duty Organic Brake Pads with Shim to the Indian aftermarket, marking a strategic move toward high-performance, safety-centric braking solutions. These brake pads are engineered using RMR (Rubber Metal Rubber) technology, which enhances friction stability, improves driver responsiveness, and significantly lowers brake noise, thereby offering a smoother and quieter ride experience. The innovation targets passenger and light commercial vehicles, reflecting Uno Minda’s responsiveness to evolving market demands for reliable and advanced brake systems.
During the launch, Anand Kumar, Head of Product & Strategy, Aftermarket Uno Minda Ltd, stated: “At Uno Minda, we understand that every component of a vehicle must work together seamlessly to ensure both safety and performance. The launch of our improved formulation of Heavy Duty Organic Brake Pads with Shim featuring RMR (Rubber Metal Rubber) technology is a clear reflection of our commitment to delivering superior products that meet the highest industry standards.” This quote has been verified from multiple credible sources, including Financial Express, ETAuto.com, and LinkedIn.
These developments signal a broader trend in the industry where material innovation, braking performance, and regulatory compliance are emerging as the core pillars of success. Suppliers that prioritize R&D and align their offerings with future vehicle platforms are expected to maintain a competitive edge as the market continues to evolve.
| Report Attributes | Details |
|---|---|
| Current Total Market Size (2025) | USD 390 million |
| Projected Market Size (2035) | USD 640 million |
| CAGR (2025 to 2035) | 5.1% |
| Base Year for Estimation | 2024 |
| Historical Period | 2020 to 2024 |
| Projections Period | 2025 to 2035 |
| Quantitative Units | USD million for value |
| Material Types Analyzed (Segment 1) | Rubber Material, Pressure Sensitive Adhesive (PSA) Material, Thermoset Material, Others |
| Applications Analyzed (Segment 2) | Two Wheeler, Passenger Vehicle, Heavy Commercial Vehicle, Commercial Vehicle |
| Sales Channels Analyzed (Segment 3) | OEM, Aftermarket |
| Regions Covered | North America; Latin America; Western Europe; Eastern Europe; East Asia; South Asia Pacific; Middle East and Africa |
| Countries Covered | United States, Canada, Brazil, Mexico, Germany, France, United Kingdom, Italy, China, Japan, South Korea, India, Australia, GCC Countries, South Africa |
| Key Players influencing the Automotive Brake Shims Market | Robert Bosch GmbH, ZF Friedrichshafen AG, Valeo S.A., Delphi Automotive PLC, Federal-Mogul Co., Nisshinbo Holdings Inc., Brembo S.p.A., Akebono Brake Industry Co., Ltd., EBC Brakes, DSS Brakes |
| Additional Attributes | Growing focus on NVH control, Increasing use in passenger vehicles, Rubber material dominance at 34.5% share in 2025, Aftermarket expansion in Asia and Latin America, Strategic OEM collaborations to reduce brake squeal in EVs and hybrids |
The market is segmented into Rubber Material, Pressure Sensitive Adhesive (PSA) Material, Thermoset Material, and Others.
The market is segmented into Two Wheeler, Passenger Vehicle, Heavy Commercial Vehicle, and Commercial Vehicle.
The market is segmented into OEM and Aftermarket.
The market is segmented into North America, Latin America, Western Europe, Eastern Europe, East Asia, South Asia Pacific, and Middle East and Africa.
The global automotive brake shims sector is projected to reach USD 390 million by 2025.
The industry is anticipated to grow to approximately USD 640 million by 2035, registering a CAGR of 5.1% from 2025 to 2035.
Key companies include Robert Bosch GmbH, ZF Friedrichshafen AG, Valeo S.A., Delphi Automotive PLC, Federal-Mogul Co., Nisshinbo Holdings Inc., Brembo S.p.A., Akebono Brake Industry Co., Ltd., EBC Brakes, and DSS Brakes.
The increasing demand for enhanced vehicle safety, the rise in global vehicle production, and advancements in braking technologies are significant contributors to growth.
North America holds a significant share of the market, driven by advanced automotive manufacturing and the need for high-performance braking systems.
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Automotive Brake Shims Market
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