Two Caliper Suppliers

The SC430 was factory-fitted with brake calipers from two different suppliers: NBK (Akebono) and Sumitomo. The pad shape differs between suppliers — ordering the wrong pads means they won’t physically fit the caliper.

Symptoms

  • Ordered brake pads don’t fit
  • Lexus dealer says they need to inspect before ordering
  • Online parts catalogues show two different OEM pad numbers for the same car

Cause

Toyota/Lexus dual-sourced calipers as standard OEM procurement practice. Both suppliers meet the same spec but the caliper housing geometry differs, resulting in different pad shapes. This affects both front and rear brakes.

Diagnosis

Inspect the caliper casting. The manufacturer name (SUMITOMO or NBK/AKEBONO) is cast into the metal. Visible with the wheel removed — quick visual check.

Leif’s 2008 SC430: Sumitomo confirmed by mechanic (April 16, 2026). [Verified]

OEM Pad Numbers

Rear

CaliperOEM Part #Supplier Mark
NBK (Akebono)04466-30170NBK PN529
Sumitomo04466-30190SUMITOMO PS506H

Front

CaliperOEM Part #Supplier Mark
NBK (Akebono)04465-22312NBK PN529AH (RHD spec)
Sumitomo04466-30272TEXTAR T4146

Aftermarket Compatibility

Brembo Prime OE-equivalent — caliper-specific. Brembo’s own catalogue specifies braking system (Sumitomo or NBK) for each pad number:

Akebono ProACT — lists universal SC430 2002-2010 fitment without specifying caliper type. ACT771 (rear) and ACT619 (front) cross-reference multiple OEM numbers. May fit both caliper types. [Reported — awaiting confirmation from Rolan Australia]

Rotors are universal — same rotor fits both caliper types. Only pads are caliper-specific.

Prevention

Before ordering brake pads for any SC430, always check which caliper is fitted first. Takes 30 seconds with the wheel off.

Sources

  • Lexus parts catalogue (parts.lexus.com) — two pad options shown for SC430
  • Brembo parts catalogue (bremboparts.com) — pads specify braking system
  • Mechanic inspection of Leif’s car (April 2026)