Rear and front Brake discs for my car

Car Brake rotors rear and front: which brand is better?

According to our customers, the best spare parts in the auto Brake disc front and rear product category come from the following brands:

• BREMBO
• FEBI BILSTEIN
• BOSCH
• ATE
• DELPHI

Auto Brake discs: how much does this product cost?

The price of car parts within the auto Brake discs category ranges from £40 to £526, depending on the vehicle type, manufacturer, and product specifications.

Brake rotors for cars: find out more! How to choose, when to change , and how much they cost

What are brake discs?

A brake disc is a metal part of a vehicle's brake system that is attached to the wheel hub. When braking, the brake pads are pressed against the disc, creating friction that converts kinetic energy into thermal energy and slows down the rotation of the wheel. It is a wearing part that gradually wears out and must be replaced regularly to ensure driving safety.

Functionality of the braking system

The disc brake system works on the basis of converting kinetic energy into heat through friction:

1. When you press the brake pedal, the brake fluid transfers the pressure to the brake calliper.
2. The brake calliper presses the brake pads against the rotating disc with high hydraulic force
3. The friction between the pads and the disc slows down the rotation of the disc and the wheel, generating temperatures that can usually reach 600–800 °C
4. The heat is released into the environment via the ventilation ducts of the disc
5. Thanks to the inertia, the vehicle continues moving with braked wheels
6. The friction between the tyres and the road brings the vehicle to a definitive standstill

Advantages of disc brakes: good modulation, reliability, easy maintenance, and low risk of fading (loss of power when overheating).

What elements does the braking system consist of?

The braking system comprises the following main components:

• Brake discs – the most important functional element where friction occurs
• Brake calipers – press the brake pads against the disc with hydraulic force
• Brake pads – friction material that generates friction on the disc
• Brake lines and brake fluid – hydraulic system for pressure transmission
• Master cylinder – generates hydraulic pressure when the pedal is pressed
• Brake booster – makes it easier to operate the pedal by reducing the force required
• Control systems – ABS (anti-lock braking system), ESP (electronic stability control), EBD (electronic brake force distribution)

Types of brake discs

There are several types of discs on the market, each designed for specific operating conditions.

Solid discs (continuous discs)

This is a one-piece metal disc without internal cavities.

Properties:

• Thickness: 9–12 mm
• Use: Rear axle of small and compact cars
• Price: approx. £20-£250 per pair (depending on vehicle type, brand and quality)
• Simple construction, low price

Disadvantages:

• Poorer heat dissipation
• Tendency to overheat during heavy braking

Recommended for: normal city driving, rear axles of most cars

Ventilated discs

Consist of two metal plates connected by ribbed channels. Air ducts are formed between the discs for cooling.

Properties:

• Thickness: 20–32 mm (depending on model)
• Significantly better heat dissipation compared to solid brake discs
• Large work surface thanks to internal channels
• Application: Front axle of most modern cars
• Price: approx. £120 to £250 per pair (depending on vehicle type, brand and quality).

This is how cooling works: As the brake disc rotates, the centrifugal force generates an air flow through the internal cavities, which helps to dissipate heat.

Important: As a rule, ventilated brake discs are not directly interchangeable with solid brake discs, as they are usually wider and have different dimensions.

Drilled discs

Disc surfaces are drilled across the surface.

Advantages:

• Improved heat dissipation compared to solid brake discs
• Rapid drainage of water and brake dust
• Slight weight reduction and therefore slightly less unsprung mass
• Better wet braking performance

Disadvantages:

• Brake pads tend to wear more quickly (the holes "cut" the friction material)
• Risk of cracks under extreme loads
• Price: depending on vehicle, manufacturer and design approx. £70-£264 per pair

Recommendation: In normal city and motorway traffic, the difference to standard brake discs is usually barely noticeable. Particularly useful for sporty driving or occasional track days.

Drilled and slotted brake discs

Combination of holes and slots for improved cooling.

Application: High-performance vehicles, sporty vehicles and occasional use on the racetrack.

Properties:

• Maximum cooling
• Excellent drainage of water, gases, and dust
• Price: depending on vehicle, manufacturer and design approx. £132–£352 per pair

Disadvantages: brake pads tend to wear more quickly, are more susceptible to cracking and generally require more maintenance

Carbon-ceramic brake discs

Made from a composite material based on carbon fibres and silicon carbide (C/SiC).

Properties:

• Around 50-60% lighter than comparable cast iron discs.
• Consistently high coefficients of friction over a very wide temperature range.
• Service life of up to approx. 300,000 km (can often last the life of a vehicle under normal driving conditions).
• Largely resistant to corrosion, especially salt corrosion.
• Stable at temperatures up to 1200°C.
• Can contribute to shorter braking distances and very high braking stability under suitable conditions.

Application: Super sports car

Disadvantages:

• Extremely high price: Depending on the manufacturer and vehicle, a complete carbon-ceramic brake system can cost in the high four- to five-digit pound range.
• Less effective at low temperatures – full braking power is often only achieved when the brakes are warm.
• Sensitive to mechanical shocks.
• Require special service.

Front and rear brake discs: What is the difference?

Front and rear brake discs differ considerably from each other, and this is not just a matter of convenience, but also a question of physics and safety. When braking, the braking forces are unevenly distributed between the front and rear axles: By shifting the centre of gravity forward, the front wheels are subjected to significantly greater loads than the rear wheels. As a result, the front discs typically take around 60–70% of the total braking load, while the rear discs take the remaining 30–40%, although the actual distribution can vary depending on the vehicle, load and driving situation.

Construction of the front discs

This load difference is also reflected in the disc design. The front discs are usually 30–40% larger – they have a larger diameter, a greater thickness (20-32 mm) and are usually internally ventilated to ensure better heat dissipation. This design is necessary because the front discs do most of the braking work and have to withstand high temperatures without losing their effectiveness. The front discs have a significantly shorter service life – they often wear 2–3 times faster than the rear discs as they are subjected to greater stress.

Construction of the rear discs

The rear discs, on the other hand, are significantly smaller and thinner (normally 9–22 mm) as they are subjected to much less load. In compact cars, the rear brake discs are often solid (full), while premium and sports cars use ventilated brake discs. Due to the lower load, the rear brake discs wear more slowly than the front ones and last longer, making them a more economical solution.

Service life of the front and rear brake discs

The front brake discs can typically last around 30,000 to 100,000 km, depending on driving style and operating conditions. With frequent city driving, it is often necessary to replace the front discs after around 30,000 to 50,000 km, while they can reach a mileage of 100,000 km or more with predominantly quiet driving on the motorway. The rear brake discs generally last longer - often around 80,000 to 120,000 km – as they are usually subjected to significantly less stress during braking than the front discs. The exact service life depends on the driving style, the transmission type, the quality of the parts, and the operating conditions.

Installation and compatibility rules

When working with brake discs, it is essential to observe a few rules:

• The front and rear discs are not interchangeable and have different mounting holes and diameters.
• The discs must be replaced in pairs on each axle (both at the same time, not just one).
• The manufacturer's specifications always indicate the correct type and size for the front and rear axle.
• Fitting an incorrect disc can lead to uneven braking performance, unstable driving behaviour and failing the MOT.

Always check the manufacturer's specifications for your vehicle before purchasing brake discs to avoid errors and increase safety.

Brake disc materials and their properties

The material determines the thermal conductivity, strength, service life and cost of the disc.

Pearlitic grey cast iron

The most common and most favourable material for series production.

Composition:

• Basic material: Iron with carbon (2.5–4%)
• Additives: Chromium and molybdenum increase wear resistance
• A higher carbon content improves heat absorption and supports heat dissipation

Properties:

• Good thermal conductivity
• Reliability and strength
• Affordable price
• Compatible with most common brake pad compounds

Disadvantages

• Heavier than other materials
• Susceptible to corrosion (rust on the discs during storage is normal)

Steel alloys

Corrosion-resistant, robust, and cost-effective solution.

Properties:

• High corrosion resistance (important for countries that use road salt)
• Precisely machined friction surfaces (e.g. by turn-milling)
• Good price-performance ratio

Application: some European cars, special vehicles

Composite brake discs: Grey cast iron + aluminium

The grey cast iron friction ring is connected to the aluminium disc pot using special connecting elements (e.g. rivets or bushes).

Advantages

• Lightweight and robust components
• Reduction of unsprung mass by 5-10% (improves manoeuvrability and comfort)
• Optimised temperature management: Aluminium conducts heat significantly better than steel and, depending on the design, can contribute to improved heat distribution in the braking system
• Greater elasticity in the bond between friction ring and disc pot - lower risk of permanent deformation at high temperatures
• The brake discs remain dimensionally stable and reliable

Application: Premium vehicles, high-performance vehicles

Carbon-ceramic composites

Composition: Carbon fibres and silicon carbide (C/SiC).

Properties:

• Consistently high coefficient of friction over a very wide temperature range (significantly reduced fading when heated).
• Resistant to extreme temperatures (up to 1,200°C)
• Lightweight – generally around 50–60% lighter than comparable cast iron discs.
• Largely resistant to corrosion, especially salt corrosion.

Application: primarily in super sports cars, high-performance vehicles and in motorsport.

Frequency of brake disc replacement

Timely replacement of brake discs is crucial for safety. The frequency of replacement depends on many factors, and the condition of the discs must be constantly monitored.

Total service life: Brake discs typically last 100,000–150,000 km under normal conditions, though actual lifespan varies considerably.

Factors that influence service life

The actual service life of a disc depends on many variables:

• Brake disc material type – ceramic generally lasts longer than cast iron
• Vehicle model and engine power – powerful vehicles wear brake discs faster
• Route profile – braking is required more frequently in city traffic
• Driving style – aggressive driving can significantly shorten the service life (up to around 40–50%)
• Load and trailer – increase the load on the discs
• Environmental conditions – humidity, salt on the roads, temperature

Important: Brake discs generally last longer than brake pads. When pads are changed for the second time, discs usually need replacing due to significant wear.

How to replace brake discs

Replacing brake discs requires care and adherence to a specific sequence. The work is best left to professionals, but it is helpful to understand the process.

Preparation

1. Park the vehicle on level ground, secure it against rolling (e.g. engage gear and use wheel chocks); observe vehicle manufacturer's instructions, especially when working on the rear axle.
2. Loosen wheel mounting bolts (do not remove them completely).
3. Raise the vehicle with a jack and secure with axle stands.

Replacement procedure

Dismantling:

1. Remove the wheel
2. Loosen the brake caliper bolts (usually 2 bolts – refer to the manufacturer's instructions for exact dimensions and tightening torques).
3. Push the brake caliper to the side and secure it with wire – do not strain the brake lines.
4. Remove the old disc (if it is stuck, use a rubber mallet).

Installation:

1. Important: Clean the hub carefully with a metal brush – even a small amount of dirt or rust build-up can lead to noticeable vibrations when braking.
2. Fit the new disc, ensuring it's properly aligned.
3. Check run-out with a dial gauge (typically 0.05–0.07 mm; refer to manufacturer's specifications).
4. If fitted, tighten the brake disc retaining screw(s) to the torque specified by the manufacturer.
5. Fit the brake caliper with new brake pads and tighten the bolts according to the specifications.
6. Install the wheel and tighten the wheel bolts in a criss-cross pattern using a torque wrench (typical value: 100–140 Nm; for the exact tightening torque, refer to the vehicle owner’s manual).
7. Lower the vehicle and check that the bolts are tight.

Bedding in new brake discs and pads

Phase 1 (100–200 km):

• 30 braking manoeuvres: from 100 km/h to 60–70 km/h (moderate, 3–4 seconds)
• At least 1 km between braking operations without braking
• Avoid abrupt braking

Phase 2 (200–300 km):

• 10–20 braking manoeuvres: from 100 km/h to 30 km/h (more intensive, but without ABS activation)
• Between braking operations – at least 1 km without braking

Consequences without bedding in:

• The braking effect may be noticeably reduced.
• The service life of brake discs and pads can be significantly shortened.
• Grooves and vibrations may occur.

How can brake disc wear be determined?

There are several methods for diagnosing brake disc condition – from visual inspection to instrumental measurement.

The most reliable method of determining disc condition is instrumental measurement.

Minimum disc thickness (MIN TH)

Each disc has an embossed marking on the front, e.g. "MIN TH = 22.0 mm". This is the minimum permissible thickness. Reduced thickness compromises disc strength and significantly increases the risk of damage or cracking under braking.

How to measure:

1. Remove wheel
2. Use a caliper gauge or micrometer
3. Measure the thickness at 8–10 points along the circumference
4. If the thickness falls below MIN TH at any point, the brake disc is considered worn and must be replaced for safety reasons. The vehicle is no longer roadworthy.

Visible signs of wear

Problems with the brake disc can also be detected without tools:

• Deep grooves and scratches – visible grooves with a depth of more than 0.5 mm indicate advanced wear
• Clear edge – a protruding edge of more than 1.5 mm indicates heavy wear
• Cracks on the disc – radial cracks (from the centre to the edge) are safety-critical and require immediate replacement of the brake disc
• Blue or yellow discolouration – indicates severe disc overheating (typically 600–800°C)
• Deep corrosion – localised corrosion (pitting), not just superficial surface rust

Signs while driving

The vehicle's driving behaviour may indicate worn discs:

• Brake pedal judder – pulsation when braking (especially at 80–120 km/h)
• Steering wheel vibration – jerking when braking may indicate a problem with the front brake discs or other brake system components.
• Pulling to one side when braking – the vehicle swerves to the left or right when braking
• Increased braking distance – reduced braking effect
• Squeaking or scratching noises – metallic contact or brake pad wear sensor

Causes of wear

• Normal wear and tear during operation
• Prolonged exposure to moisture (corrosion, road chemicals)
• Seized or sticking brake calipers (e.g. uneven pad contact pressure)
• Mechanical damage (knocks, impact from objects)
• Frequent emergency braking (sporty driving style, mountain roads)

What options are there for repairing worn brake discs?

Light scoring, grooves, and surface corrosion on cast iron brake discs can sometimes be remedied by skimming, provided discs remain sufficiently above minimum thickness (MIN TH) after machining. Skimming is typically carried out at specialist workshops using on-car brake disc lathes. This does not require disc removal.

How to choose the right brake discs for your requirements

Choosing the right brake discs depends on your vehicle, operating conditions, and driving habits.

By vehicle type

According to driving profile

Depending on climate

Humid climate with road salt (UK, Northern Europe):

• It is advisable to choose discs with zinc or lacquer coating
• Corrosion protection is vital in areas using road salt
• Recommended brands: ATE, Textar, Zimmermann (with protective coating)

Cold climate (winter, snow, sub-zero temperatures):

• Internally ventilated discs for quick removal of ice and snow
• Good cooling is also crucial in winter
• High-quality internally ventilated brake discs from well-known manufacturers are suitable

Hot climate (south, desert):

• Due to high temperatures, effective heat dissipation from brake discs is essential
• Drilled or slotted performance brake discs can be beneficial, as can carbon-ceramic brake discs for very high loads
• Popular brands: Brembo, Zimmermann

How much do brake discs cost?

The prices for brake discs vary depending on the type, material, and vehicle class.

Prices according to disc type

Factors that influence the price

The price of brake discs is determined by several important factors:

• Make and model of vehicle – premium models often have larger and more technically sophisticated brake discs.
• Quality of parts – original parts from the vehicle manufacturer are generally significantly more expensive than budget aftermarket parts. OEM-equivalent parts are priced somewhere in between.
• Disc type – drilled or slotted sports brake discs can be significantly more expensive than simple solid brake discs.
• Material – carbon-ceramic brake discs are significantly more expensive than cast iron discs and can cost £4,000–£25,000+ per vehicle depending on the model
• Protective coating – zinc or painted coatings typically increase the price by around £20–£50 per axle set

Brake disc replacement cost

The total cost of replacement includes parts and workshop labour.

Prices for workshop services:

The prices quoted are guidelines; actual costs may vary considerably depending on vehicle, region, and workshop.

List of leading brake disc brands

Note on service life:

The service life of brake discs depends heavily on driving style, vehicle, brake pads, and operating conditions. Quality brake discs typically last 80,000–150,000 km under normal conditions, though actual lifespan varies considerably.

Recommendations for brand selection

• For a cost-effective and reliable option: Bosch, Ridex, TRW, Ferodo – a good choice for many everyday vehicles
• For a balanced price-performance ratio: ATE, Textar, Zimmermann – established OE suppliers offering extensive product ranges for European vehicles
• For premium and high performance: Brembo, Zimmermann, Pagid – suitable for high-performance braking systems

OEM vs. Original for brake discs

When purchasing brake discs in the United Kingdom, you will encounter two types: original and OEM. Understanding the difference is crucial to the right choice.

Original brake discs sold under the vehicle manufacturer's brand (e.g. BMW, Mercedes-Benz, VW) with manufacturer logo and in original packaging. They correspond in specification and quality to the parts used in factory assembly, but may be subject to technical changes over time. As a rule, they are sold via the official dealer network and specialised parts dealers.

OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer) – Brake discs from manufacturers who supply parts for vehicle production and offer equivalent products under their own brand without vehicle manufacturer logos. For example, ATE supplies OE components to BMW, VW, and Audi, offering technically equivalent brake discs under its own brand at significantly lower prices than vehicle manufacturer parts.

Comparison table for brake discs

Select Original if:

• The vehicle is still under manufacturer's warranty, and strict adherence to manufacturer's specifications is required (check warranty terms).
• You only have your vehicle serviced at an official dealer.

Select OEM if:

• The manufacturer's warranty has expired (often the case with vehicles that are more than 3–5 years old).
• You have your vehicle serviced at an independent garage.
• You want broad availability (shops, Internet).

Legal basis in the United Kingdom

In the UK, the Road Vehicles (Construction and Use) Regulations 1986 stipulate that the braking system must be maintained in good and efficient working order. If major or dangerous defects are found during the MOT test, the vehicle will not receive a pass certificate and may not be driven on public roads; offences may result in fines of up to £2,500 and penalty points.

Minimum thickness of brake discs (MOT)

During the MOT test, brake discs are assessed on whether they are significantly and obviously worn, rather than measured against specific manufacturer minimum thickness values. Brake discs should be replaced when they reach the minimum thickness (MIN TH) marked on the disc or specified by the manufacturer. If the thickness falls below this minimum or a safety-critical defect is present, the disc is considered worn and must be replaced.

Important: If the actual thickness is significantly below the minimum value, or the disc is obviously worn, cracked, or damaged, the vehicle may fail the MOT test. In such cases, the vehicle is deemed unroadworthy and must not be driven on public roads until the defect is rectified.

Standards and certification

ECE R90 – recognised European safety standard for brake system replacement parts (e.g. brake discs and brake pads).

Brake discs approved to ECE R90 standards bear corresponding markings, for example: "E1 90R-02C0115/1001"

• E-mark – Country of certification (E11 = UK, E1 = Germany, E9 = Spain, etc.)
• 90R –Conformity with ECE R90 standard
• The remainder is the manufacturer's unique certification number.

Brake discs should be type-approved and carry proper certification markings (e.g. ECE R90). Using non-approved components may invalidate insurance and contravene Construction and Use Regulations. For safety reasons, only tested and type-approved brake discs should be fitted.

UK standard documents

Road Vehicles (Construction and Use) Regulations 1986, Regulation 18 – maintenance and operational requirements for braking systems.

Requirements:

• Regular braking system inspection during annual MOT test.
• Brake discs below the minimum thickness specified by the manufacturer are considered worn and must be replaced for safety reasons; the vehicle is then considered unsafe to drive.
• Use of certified parts only (ECE R90)

MOT test (annual for cars over 3 years old):

• Testing braking efficiency on the brake roller tester.
• Visual inspection of brake discs, brake pads, and brake calipers for obvious damage, severe corrosion, and leaks.
• If defects are suspected, disc thickness may be measured with a caliper gauge or assessed for excessive lateral run-out; detailed diagnosis is typically carried out at a specialist workshop.

Consequences of violations

Owner liability

Under UK law, the vehicle owner is responsible for ensuring:

• The vehicle, including the braking system, is maintained in roadworthy condition
• Safety-critical worn parts are replaced promptly
• Only type-approved parts suitable for the vehicle are used (complying with Construction and Use Regulations, ECE standards)
• Legally required MOT tests are completed on time

Brake discs for popular car models

• Brake discs for Fiat 500
• Brake discs for Insignia
• Brake discs for Ford Kuga
• Brake discs for Renault Clio
• Brake discs for Renault Megane
• Brake discs for Range Rover
• Brake discs for Discovery
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• Brake discs for Peugeot 308
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FAQ and people ask: Brake discs