Key Considerations When Purchasing Brake Discs

Selecting the proper brake discs is critical for vehicle safety, performance longevity, and driving confidence. Below are essential factors to evaluate during your purchasing process:

1. Vehicle Compatibility

· OEM Specifications: Cross-reference your vehicle’s year/make/model with manufacturer guidelines for precise disc dimensions (diameter, thickness, hat height).

· Brake System Match: Confirm compatibility with your system type (solid, vented, floating) and caliper design.

2. Material & Manufacturing Quality

· Core Materials:

o Cast Iron: Cost-effective for daily driving (gray iron GG15-GG25 classifications)

o Carbon-Ceramic: Premium option for sports cars (withstand 1,000°C+ temps)

o Coated Options: Anti-corrosion treatments (Geomet®/zinc plating) for rust-prone regions

· Production Standards: Prioritize ISO/TS 16949-certified manufacturers with ultrasonic crack testing.

3. Driving Application

· Commuter Vehicles: Standard OE replacements (e.g., Brembo OE, ATE Original)

· Performance Use: Slotted/drilled designs (e.g., EBC Ultimax2) for track/HD towing

· Extreme Conditions: Forged alloys with thermal barrier coatings

4. Cost Analysis

· Value Metrics:

o Price per wear cycle (miles/€)

o Bed-in time requirements

o NVH (noise/vibration/harshness) ratings

· Avoid: Ultra-cheap imports lacking proper hardening (often <240 Brinell hardness)

5. Warranty & Support

· Seek minimum 1-year/unlimited-mileage warranties

· Confirm regional distributor support for claims

· Verify OEM equivalency documentation (TÜV/ECE R90 approvals)

6. Installation Factors

· Torque Specs: Always follow manufacturer values (typically 90-120 Nm for passenger cars)

· Bedding Procedure: Critical for optimal transfer layer formation (6-10 gradual stops from 60 km/h)

· Sensor Compatibility: Ensure proper ABS/wear sensor clearance

7. Supplier Evaluation

· Check business longevity (prefer 10+ year track records)

· Review third-party lab test data

· Verify inventory depth for future replacements