I recently completed a full front brake job using Centric ceramic pads. Unfortunately, they rattle like hell now over bumps. I used new rattle clips, proper lube, and proper tack-spray. Now, after some googling, I see that others have had this same issue with Centrics, so it appears that I'll be yanking them back out and getting new OEM pads.

No, you should not pull the pads out and bend the rattle clips. That changes the friction on the pad and may actually cause them to stay in-contact with the rotor after releasing the pedal. The problem is within the geometry of the backing plate and the only real "fix" is installing a pad with the correct structure.

 

After searching for a year for ceramic pads for my Panamera Turbo, I had Powerstop Z16 Evolution ceramic pads installed and am really happy with them. At the time, Summit Racing had the best price on these pads (they drop ship from the manufacturer) and they arrived quickly. Very little brake dust and very quiet. I always used Akebono on my other cars, but unfortunately Akebono doesn't make ceramic pads that fit the Panamera. So far, these Powerstop Z16 Evolution pads seem to be about the same quality as Akebono and are a little less expensive. I've had them on the car for over a year now and am very happy with them. They appear to be lasting a LOT longer than the OEM pads too.

 

Have the Powerstop Z16 Evolution pads on my daily driver for a year now. Been great for everyday use. No noise/squealing, dustless, stops well and braking easy to modulate..

 

I went with Porsche/OEM. They're Akibono pads. They also have slightly different dimensions from the Centric pads I took off. The anti-rattle clips are also different in thickness and geometry. I used my calipers and compared them. I'll post my drawings once I test drive it. I'm getting good at the brakes. Around 15 minutes a side now.

BTW - the caliper bolts do deform. The thread angle is more pronounced on the old bolts vs the new ones. The bolts were available at the dealer for $3 each. You'll need 4 and torque them to spec.