Solid lubricants like metal sulfides and fluorides are important ingredients in stabilizing the friction in brake pads. It is essential to consider the oxidation temperature and the compatibility of the metal sulfides. This study emphasises the importance of incorporating a variety of solid lubricants based on oxidation temperature regimes. Low-temperature solid lubricants such as molybdenum disulfide, iron sulfide, and bismuth sulfide, as well as high-temperature solid lubricants such as tin(II)sulfide, tin(IV)sulfide, and calcium fluoride were used in the preparation of brake pads. The combination of low and high-temperature solid lubricant mix was tested for tribological performance in brake pads. The results show the necessity of using both low and high-temperature solid lubricants to enhance the tribological performance of brake pads. •Diverse solid lubricants in brake friction composites.•High and low-temperature solid lubricants for enhanced brake performance.•The combination of solid lubricants cut brake costs by reducing the use of costlier one.