If I install some performance rotors and ceramic pads on a car that didnt come with them, will I run the risk of losing my Anti Lock Brakes?
If you want to reduce brake fade Ceramic pads are not the way to go. You need a hi-temp Semi-Metallic or even perhaps a mild (autocross) compound Carbon-Metallic pad. You should also switch to a hi-temp brake fluid, such as the brake fluid Ford makes for its F-series trucks which has a boiling point some 100 deg F higher than normal DOT 3 fluid and is cheap and plentiful. Drilled or slotted rotors won't help at all to reduce fade. None of this though will affect your ABS. That will work fine. Of course, if the car is being driven primarily on the street I would have to ask why you are experiencing brake fade at all. Perhaps a change in driving habits is in order? ASE Certified Automotive Service Advisor
In order to improve the overall mushy feel try flushing out the brake lines. If you can install your own pads/rotors, you can probably flush the lines yourself, it isn't difficult. It will rid the brake lines of the old worn fluid and make a quite noticeable difference. Perhaps even try replacing the rubber brake hoses that connect the hard brake lines to the wheels. When these get old and worn, they will expand when you step on the brakes contributing to the mushy feel. But go with the fluid first, it's the least expensive of all the options.
Unless you plan to race the car exclusively and can afford to replace those rotors after every race, I suggest you stay away from drilled rotors. They will not affect ABS performance. But since you already got ABS, you dont need drilled rotors. Before the advent of ABS, drilled or slotted rotors were used to prevent lockups, reduce weight. The main problem with drilled or slotted rotors is that they wear down pads quickly and reduce the strength of the rotor. Racers always replace them after every race because they get weak and crack. Best to stick to ventilated discs.
