Powerstop Brakes

Long time lurker, seldom poster.

I just bought the powerstop 1 click brake kit on Amazon. The kit has drilled/slotted rotors and ceramic pads.

I know there is a lot of debate about the need/value of drilled/slotted rotors and even more so about ceramic pads.

Debate aside - Has anyone ever used this brand of rotor/pad combo? I am a little worried as BMW OEM brakes have me spoiled. Reviews on the 'internets' all point to above average ratings and some even call these the best bang for the buck. I am a little worried as most of the reviews come from the point of view of non-BMW owners (not looking down at their choices but many of the cars on the market have crappy brakes)

I have seen some BMW owners call this setup a good option - equivalent but not superior to OEM brake - with added benefits of drilled/slotted rotors and the corresponding drawbacks.

For reference - I live in NJ and do about 50 miles of driving a day with occasional heavy breaking 60mph-10mph in heavy traffic.


I purchased them based on overwhelmingly positive review - despite the reference bias I speak of above. The BMW reviewers pushed me over the top. I also get the added benefit of an enhanced look (i know, i know, don;t mock me). I am a sucker for OEM+ look.

Anyone have any experience?

http://www.powerstop.com/products (1 click brake kit)

I don't have this specific kit, but I do have these rotors installed on our X3 along with EBC brake pads front and rear. I think you will immediately notice the increased noise level. Under heavy braking, these rotors (due to the slots) make a heavy "groaning" sound. You'll see what I mean after you install them. My M3 has the European CSL brakes which are cross-drilled from the factory and they make considerably less noise since they are not slotted. I previously has cross-drilled/slotted rotors on the M3 and they were quite loud. Its a small sacrifice for me (possibly larger for others) to get increased braking power and reduced brake fade.

Any slots or holes in a rotor will increase noise under heavy braking even in commuting conditions.

Now whether or not there is benefit of holes/slots under commuting conditions is another discussion.