Brake Kits (Rotors & Pads)

Are your brakes worn, or does your car need to stop safely while towing a trailer or on a track day? Here we bring together brake rotors and brake pads that match, so you can replace both at once on your daily driver, van or project car.

How to choose brake rotors and pads

Rotors and pads wear together. If you fit new pads to worn or uneven rotors, it can result in poor contact, noise and reduced braking performance. That is why many of the products here are complete kits, e.g. PowerStop kits for the front or rear wheels, matched to a specific car model and model year. If you would rather buy the parts separately, we have brake rotors and brake pads in their own categories.

Choose based on how the car is used rather than simply going for the most aggressive pad:

• Daily driving: low noise, limited brake dust and good braking performance from a cold start typically matter most.
• Towing and heavy loads: look for kits designed for it, e.g. the Z36 Truck & Tow series from PowerStop.
• Track and track days: this is where you find race pads, e.g. EBC Racing RP-1 Race. Track pads typically need heat to brake optimally and can therefore brake less effectively when cold.

Always check fitment for car model, model year and axle, and pay attention to variants such as solid or vented rotors and one-piece or multi-piece rotors, as these can require different pads. New rotors and pads should be bedded in according to the manufacturer's instructions. You can keep an eye on wear with brake pad wear indicators, and if the capacity of the original brakes isn't enough for your project, a big brake kit can be the next step. Other brands in the category include DBA, Baer Brakes, EBC and Brembo OE.

Frequently asked questions

Should I replace brake rotors and pads at the same time?

Not always, but if the rotors are below minimum thickness, scored or uneven, they should be replaced together with the pads. The minimum thickness is typically stated on the rotor or in the car's service data. Always replace in pairs on the same axle.

Can I use the kits on the road and for the vehicle inspection?

That depends on the product and the car. Check for the specific part number whether the pads are R90-approved or E-marked for your particular car. Race pads are generally not intended for street use.

Why does the pedal go soft after hard driving on track?

A soft or long pedal can be caused by boiling brake fluid and is not solved with new pads. Overheated rotors and pads, on the other hand, can cause braking performance to drop even though the pedal feels normal. Fresh fluid with a high boiling point can help.