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Stopping power is the key to safe driving. Hitting the brake pedal should inspire confidence that your car will stop reliably, every time. For car enthusiasts who demand peak performance and safety, PowerStop brake kits have become a popular and budget-friendly solution.
But are PowerStop brake kits right for you and your car? This comprehensive guide will explore the ins and outs of PowerStop brakes to help you decide.
PowerStop is known for its complete brake kits. Each kit combines brake pads, rotors (and sometimes calipers), and all the hardware needed for installation. These comprehensive packages simplify the upgrade process. They eliminate the need to source each component individually.
PowerStop offers a range of brake pad formulations. Each one is geared toward specific driving needs:
PowerStop brake kits cover most driving needs with their multiple series. PowerStop created a handy online tool to help determine which kit will work best for your needs. The “Brake Finder” allows you to input your vehicle’s year, make, model, submodel, and braking position (front, rear, or all). The tool generates recommendations for the most relevant kits.
A key factor to consider is how you use your vehicle. The Z36 Truck and Tow is ideal if you frequently tow heavy items. Performance drivers would be better served with the Z23 or Z26. If your driving mainly involves daily commutes and you want longer pad life, the Z16 or Z17 should be sufficient.
PowerStop kits are generally mid-range in price, making them more affordable than high-performance brands such as Brembo. They offer drivers a balance between performance and price. As of August 2023, a complete set can range from $150 to $600, depending on the series and vehicle model.
PowerStop utilizes drilled and slotted rotors in its kits. The cross-drilled holes and slotted grooves improve heat dissipation. Effective heat dissipation prevents brake fade, which is crucial during heavy braking or driving for extended periods.
PowerStop kits are designed to make installation easy. However, prior mechanical experience or a professional mechanic is often needed for safe and correct installation. Each kit comes with a comprehensive instruction manual specific to your vehicle.
Some common concerns surrounding PowerStop Kits involve the drilled and slotted rotors. Drivers have expressed concerns about noise, premature wear, cracking, and road debris getting stuck in the drilled holes.
Drilled and slotted rotors may produce noise when braking. PowerStop addresses this by using a thermal zinc plating on all its brake kits. The thermal zinc plating provides protection and noise dampening.
Some degree of added wear on your braking system is inherent with any high-performance braking system. This is usually minimal with regular maintenance. You can better manage wear by choosing the right pad formulation for your driving conditions.
A common perception is that road debris might lodge in the drilled holes of rotors and potentially cause issues. PowerStop emphasizes that the drilled holes in their rotors are designed to expel debris. The slots also help with this process.
Slotted and drilled rotors are known to crack under certain conditions. However, advancements in metallurgy have addressed this. While cracking has been reported in some cases of very aggressive use, PowerStop rotors are generally durable enough to withstand most driving situations. Reviews often suggest that PowerStop rotors last just as long as standard blank rotors.
Regularly inspecting your rotors is still recommended, especially if you’re an aggressive driver. This is standard best practice for any rotor type. Regularly inspecting your rotors and catching potential problems early can help you avoid bigger issues later.
PowerStop is considered a reputable brand for brakes, often lauded for providing cost-effective performance upgrades. The company prioritizes quality control, subjecting its products to rigorous testing in compliance with SAE J2784 and AMECA standards. PowerStop uses premium materials to enhance braking performance and dependability.
Major automotive parts conglomerates do not manufacture PowerStop. PowerStop is an independent brand focusing on high-performance aftermarket brake systems. PowerStop has manufacturing partners in the United States, Asia, and Europe for its various components, allowing for global distribution. Despite this, PowerStop maintains strict quality standards across all its manufacturing partners.
Several factors affect brake longevity. This includes driving habits, pad formulation, rotor type, and vehicle weight. Based on industry reviews and feedback, PowerStop kits typically last around 30,000–70,000 miles, similar to the expected lifespan of quality stock brake systems.
Whether brake upgrade kits are worthwhile depends on your individual needs. If you need enhanced performance for towing, sportier driving, or simply prefer the visual aesthetic, upgrading your brakes is worth it. If your existing brake system is experiencing wear or performance issues, it's also worth upgrading.
PowerStop brake kits are a worthwhile upgrade for car enthusiasts looking for quality without the high price tag. Their brake kits work for various driving styles and vehicle models. PowerStop focuses on quality engineering and uses top-notch materials for all its products. With multiple series to choose from and convenient online tools, finding the perfect PowerStop brake kits is simple. Drivers can enjoy added confidence and increased stopping power in almost any driving scenario.
