🔧 How to Choose the Right Brake Pads for Your Vehicle

Understanding OE numbers, compatibility, and quality differences

Brakes are one of the most important safety components in your vehicle — and brake pads are the part that takes the most wear. Choosing the right ones can be confusing with so many options on the market. Here’s what you need to know to make a smart, safe, and cost-effective choice.

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1. Start with the OE Number

OE (Original Equipment) numbers are like a product’s fingerprint. It’s a code assigned by the vehicle manufacturer that identifies the exact part originally fitted to your car.

Why it matters:

• OE numbers eliminate guesswork.
• They ensure exact fit and compatibility with your brake system.
• Many aftermarket manufacturers produce parts based on OE numbers, so you can get the right part even if it’s not from the original brand.

Tip: You can usually find the OE number in your car’s service manual, on the old brake pad, or by contacting your dealer or trusted parts supplier.

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2. Understand Compatibility Beyond the OE Number

Even with the same OE number, compatibility may vary based on:

• Engine size
• Production year
• Brake caliper brand (e.g. ATE, TRW, Bosch)

Always double-check the model variant and not just the make and year of your vehicle. If you’re not sure — ask. At Partoria.eu, we help customers match the right part daily.

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3. Choose the Right Material

There are three main types of brake pad materials, each with pros and cons:

Material Type	Pros	Cons
Organic	Quiet, gentle on rotors	Wears faster, less braking power
Semi-metallic	Strong braking, durable	Noisier, more rotor wear
Ceramic	Long life, low dust, consistent	More expensive, not ideal for racing

Our recommendation:

• For everyday driving: Ceramic or quality semi-metallic
• For sporty/aggressive driving: High-performance semi-metallic
• For older vehicles: Organic, if cost is a major concern

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4. Consider Brand & Certification

Not all brake pads are created equal — and safety isn’t worth gambling on. Choose reputable brands that meet ECE R90 certification, which is required in the EU for replacement brake parts.

Some trusted brands we recommend:

• ATE
• TRW
• Bosch
• Ferodo
• Brembo
• Textar

At Partoria.eu, all our brake pads come from certified manufacturers or verified aftermarket suppliers matching OE quality.

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5. Watch Out for Red Flags

Avoid brake pads that:

• Don’t list an OE reference or certification
• Have no technical specifications
• Are drastically cheaper than all others (could be counterfeit or low quality)

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Final Thoughts

Choosing the right brake pads is about more than just price — it’s about fit, safety, and performance. With OE number-based selection, quality materials, and reliable brands, you ensure smoother braking and peace of mind.

Still unsure? Contact our team at info@partoria.eu or call +421 951 041 808 — we’ll help you choose the right fit.

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Related reads:

• [How to Replace Brake Pads – Step-by-Step Guide]
• [Original vs. Aftermarket Parts: What You Should Know]
• [Top 5 Signs Your Brake Pads Need Replacing]