For brake-pad and brake-disc sourcing, the first decision is whether the proposed part matches the required vehicle and braking system. Record the OE reference, vehicle details, axle position and required quantity before comparing product ranges. Similar shape or a matching diameter is insufficient to establish interchangeability.
Brake pads: identify the reference and fitting details
Include the pad shape, backing-plate dimensions, thickness, mounting arrangement and any wear-sensor requirement. Confirm whether the quotation covers a set or individual pieces and identify the included hardware. Request a drawing or sample when the reference is ambiguous.
Friction-material descriptions such as ceramic, semi-metallic or low-metallic describe broad product groups. They do not establish a universal stopping-performance, dust-reduction, noise or wear claim. Compare a proposed pad against the agreed application and ask for product-specific evidence for any quantified performance statement.
Brake discs: dimensions and configuration
Record disc diameter, nominal thickness, height, centre bore and mounting-hole arrangement, together with whether the disc is solid or ventilated. Confirm the axle and vehicle braking-system variant. The published drawing and approved reference should govern selection, not appearance alone.
Service decisions must use the applicable disc’s specified wear limit and the vehicle’s service information. Brembo explains minimum-thickness assessment in its minimum brake-disc thickness guidance. This is general maintenance information; it does not set one minimum thickness for all discs in the MAKEXCAR catalogue.
What evidence to request
- A drawing and specification linked to the exact product reference and revision.
- Available inspection or test information, with the method, conditions and acceptance criteria stated.
- Identification of the product and batch covered by a report, rather than a generic supplier certificate.
- Applicable destination-market documentation for the specific item, where required.
- An agreed process for reference changes, sample approval and packing checks.
A general quality-system certificate is not proof that every product reference has a particular approval. Ask the supplier to identify which documents apply to the proposed product. Do not carry over test figures from an unrelated pad formulation or disc configuration.
Sampling and commercial review
Before ordering in volume, compare the sample and markings against the approved reference. Inspect fitting dimensions, visible condition, included hardware and packaging. Record any differences for clarification. Performance requirements should be agreed separately using the relevant test information; a visual inspection alone cannot verify braking performance.
Compare quotations on the same basis: reference, specification, quantity, unit or set definition, packaging, documentation, destination and delivery terms. Price, minimum quantities, lead times and warranty arrangements depend on the actual order and should be confirmed in writing. This guide does not publish a universal wholesale price or a promised wear interval.
Stock planning for distributors
Keep similar-looking vehicle variants separate until their references have been checked. Prioritize the applications your customers actually request and maintain a record of the approved part, drawing revision and supplied configuration. For mixed orders, use one enquiry row per item and record replenishment priorities instead of assuming that every catalogue item is held in stock.
Private-label orders should specify box artwork, label language, reference marking, barcodes and outer-carton requirements. Confirm these details with the sample and quotation before production. Packaging photographs are examples unless the quoted configuration says otherwise.
Browse and enquire
Start with the Steering & Brakes catalogue and brake discs. Send the OE list, vehicle details, quantities and documentation requirements through Contact MAKEXCAR. Our technical support page explains the information needed for a reference review.
Frequently asked questions
Can a pad or disc be matched from a photograph?
A photograph helps identify features, but confirm the OE reference, vehicle variant and dimensions before agreeing the product. Ask for additional data where the reference remains uncertain.
Does a material label guarantee lower dust or longer life?
No. Such comparisons need an identified test method, conditions and comparator for the exact product. Request the evidence rather than applying a percentage to a whole category.
Which quantity should appear on the enquiry?
State the quantity per reference and whether it means individual pieces, axle sets or another agreed packing unit. This avoids mismatched quotation and shipment quantities.
