When it comes to your car’s braking system, high-quality parts are vital. That’s why you should turn to Power Stop for your next pads, brakes, or rotors. With a fresh set of brake parts from Power Stop, you can turn squeals, brake dust, and other problems to rest. Discover a pure braking and driving experience with these affordable, first-rate components from one of the leaders in the aftermarket brake industry.
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Comparison of the Best Power Stop Brakes
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Who is Power Stop?
Founded in 1995 in the Chicago suburb of Bedford Park, Illinois, Power Stop has been a trusted leader in brake parts for a quarter of a century. Since its inception, the company has built numerous warehouse and distribution centers, giving them an industry-leading network to propel growth and shipping capabilities. Power Stop currently manufactures a variety of products, including:
- Brake kits
- Brake pads
- Brake shoes
- Rotors & drums
- Calipers
With a variety of brake parts for all types of vehicles and drivers, Power Stop provides reputable, reliable options for towing, performance, or the daily commute.
Review of the Best Power Stop Brakes
Power Stop’s lineup of high-caliber products offers numerous solutions to common brake problems and issues. So whether you’re searching for an upgrade, restoring an old vehicle, or playing the role of at-home-mechanic, here are some of the best Power Stop brake parts for your consideration.
Best Power Stop Brake Pads:Power Stop Z23 Evolution Sport Carbon Fiber Brake Pads
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PROS
- Easy to install
- Superb stopping power
- Minimal noise or squealing
- Generates low amounts of brake dust
- Consistent braking regardless of speed
CONS
- Pads may not fit foreign cars
Where Does This Model Land in Power Stop’s Lineup?
Power Stop Z23 Evolution Sport Carbon Fiber Brake Pads are the highest-performance pads in the Evolution series. Overall, the Evolution series of brake pads are the most affordable option in comparison to Power Stop’s Extreme and Track Day product lines.
What Type of Driver Are These Best For?
These brake pads are ideal for commuters and daily drivers who want to improve the braking power and consistency of their vehicle, whether it’s a car, truck, or SUV. In addition, the pads come with dual-layer rubberized shims for squeal-free braking every time.
Should I Choose a Different Option on This List?
Because the Power Stop Z23 Evolution Sport Carbon Fiber Brake Pads are designed for everyday driving, they may not meet the needs of high-performance vehicles. Also, these may not handle heavy towing loads required by those in industries such as agriculture or construction.
Bottom Line
Affordable enough for every budget and yet durable for daily use, the Power Stop Z23 Sport Carbon Fiber Brake Pads are a bargain option. Moreover, the easy installation provides a simplistic way for novice mechanics to change their brake pads.
Best Power Stop Rotors:Power Stop Evolution Drilled, Slotted & Zinc Plated Rotors
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PROS
- Super durable
- No special tools needed for installation
- Zinc-plated finish for corrosion prevention
- Machined to replace OE without any modifications
- Drilled and slotted for great aesthetics
CONS
- Some users report warping when subjected to consistent heavy braking
Where Does This Model Land in PowerStop’s Lineup?
Evolution Drilled, Slotted, & Zinc-Plated Rotors are the high-end of the two rotors produced by Power Stop. This is due to the drilled and slotted design, which is higher quality than the blank and smooth rotor alternative.
What Type of Driver Are These Best For?
With zinc coating, these rotors provide unbeatable protection in corrosive environments such as coastal cities and towns. The zinc coating also provides a nice aesthetic for drivers concerned about the appearance of their vehicle. These rotors are most suited for everyday driving, due to their overall durability.
Should I Choose a Different Option on This List?
Although drilled and slotted brakes have their advantages, they are also more susceptible to cracking. This is due to the holes drilled in the rotor that can diminish the structural integrity over time. As a result, these are not recommended for high-performance vehicles or racing.
Bottom Line
With excellent drainage for wet climates and zinc plating to minimize corrosion, the Power Stop Evolution Drilled, Slotted, and Zinc-Plated Rotors are the pinnacle of versatility. Performance drivers may look elsewhere, but overall, these rotors provide exceptional value.
Best Power Stop Brake Kit:Power Stop Z23 Evolution Sport Brake Kit
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PROS
- Corrosion-resistant zinc-plated rotors
- Made from premium stainless steel hardware
- Pads and rotors engineered together to improve durability and stopping power
- One-stop-shop with the inclusion of pads, rotors, hardware, and brake lubricant
- Carbon fiber-ceramic brake pads for improved performance over regular ceramic brake pads
CONS
- May not fit European models
- Some buyers report problems with durability
Where Does This Model Land in Power Stop’s Lineup?
The Power Stop Z23 Evolution Sport Brake Kit is the most affordable choice in the Power Stop brake kit lineup. While it doesn’t have the added braking power of the Extreme, Eurostop, or Track Day series, it still provides an adequate solution for do-it-yourself enthusiasts and everyday driving.
What Type of Driver Are These Best For?
With drilled and slotted rotors and carbon-fiber ceramic brake pads, this kit is a high-end choice for everyday drivers. Despite being the entry-level option in the Power Stop lineup, this brake kit outperforms many other basic kits on the market.
Should I Choose a Different Option on This List?
The brakes and rotors are better than other affordable braking components out there. However, drivers may want to look at higher-end brake kits for performance driving or heavy towing.
Bottom Line
Both the rotors and brake pads of the Power Stop Z23 Evolution Sport Brake Kit offer a great brake system replacement for commuters and standard driving. However, performance enthusiasts and gearheads may find that these lacks some of the stopping power and performance of higher-end Power Stop products.
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Runner-up Power Stop Rotors:Power Stop Evolution Geomet Coated Rotors
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PROS
- Easy installation process
- Low-dust ceramic brake pads included
- Geomet coating prevents rust and corrosion
- Machined-finish to fit just like OEM rotors and brake pads
- Rotor coating pairs well with most paint jobs and wheel finishes
CONS
- Smooth and blank rotor may not be the aesthetic some want
Where Does This Model Land in PowerStop’s Lineup?
Power Stop Evolution Geomet Coated Rotors are the most budget-friendly option available from the manufacturer. Ceramic brake pads also come with the rotors for even more value over other entry-level solutions.
What Type of Driver Are These Best For?
These rotors are similar to original equipment manufacturer options, making them versatile. For everyday drivers, those who own a luxury vehicle, or people who want to eliminate squealing or other noise, these rotors are a sound choice.
Should I Choose a Different Option on This List?
Those who live in dry climates may find no benefit of having Geomet coating, which is more expensive than zinc-plated options. Moreover, the smooth and blank profile may leave drivers wanting more aesthetics.
Bottom Line
Perfect for rain-heavy or coastal climates, Power Stop Evolution Geomet Coated Rotors are a great value buy. However, basic ceramic brake pads and smooth and blank rotors won’t glaze with more aggressive driving styles.
Runner-up Power Stop Brake Pads:Power Stop Z26 Street Performance Carbon Fiber Ceramic Pads
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PROS
- Improved braking, even at high speeds
- No degradation of pedal feel at high speeds
- Made specifically for high-performance vehicles
- Very little brake dust compared to competitors or OEM
- Users report better performance in rain or wet pavement
CONS
- Noise reported by some buyers
- Not available for some popular sports cars
Where Does This Model Land in PowerStop’s Lineup?
The Z26 Street Performance Carbon Fiber Ceramic Brake Pads are the top end of Power Stop’s Extreme product line. This slots these brake pads right below Power Stop’s Track Day series, which are specifically for racing. As a result, these brake pads provide some of the best stopping power for high-performance vehicles.
What Type of Driver Are These Best For?
Drivers dead set on performance are the ideal customer for these brake pads. More specifically, Power Stop has engineered these pads for muscle cars, giving drivers more precision and stopping power at high speeds or when cornering.
Should I Choose a Different Option on This List?
Commuters and everyday drivers probably don’t need this much stopping power daily. Also, drivers that aren’t noticing sizable amounts of brake dust or residue with their current brakes may not want to upgrade.
Bottom Line
For a muscle-car performance at a budget car price, the Power Stop Z26 Street Performance Carbon Fiber Ceramic Brake Pads are an outstanding choice, especially for those tired of cleaning their wheels every few days. Conversely, they may be an unnecessary expenditure for commuters.
Best Power Stop Brake Kit for Towing:Powerstop Z36 Truck & Tow Brake Kit
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PROS
- Excellent value
- Heavy-duty and durable
- 30% less brake dust than OEM brake parts
- Comes with premium stainless steel shims for heat dissipation
- Kit comes with everything needed, including rotors, brake pads, clips, and stainless steel hardware
CONS
- Only works on large trucks and full-size SUVs
Where Does This Model Land in PowerStop’s Lineup?
Power Stop’s Z36 Truck & Tow Brake Kit is part of the company’s Extreme product line and the top-of-the-line towing kit Power Stop’s portfolio.
What Type of Driver Are These Best For?
With carbon-fiber ceramic brake pads and drilled and slotted rotors, this brake kit is an essential purchase for drivers towing heavy loads. In addition, the included components are also ideal for off-roading and 4×4 excursions.
Should I Choose a Different Option on This List?
Unless you drive a large truck or SUV, go off-roading, or consistently tow heavy loads, this brake kit is overkill. More budget-friendly options will suffice for smaller or midsize cars, especially if driven as an everyday vehicle.
Bottom Line
With superior stopping power engineered specifically for large trucks and SUVs as well as towing, few other options can compete with the value and quality of the Power Stop Z36 Truck & Tow Brake Kit.
Best Power Stop Brake Kit for Racing:Power Stop Track Brake Kit
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PROS
- Designed for track use
- Fade-resistant, even at high speeds
- Excellent performance for the money
- Long-lasting and durable rotors and brake pads
- Low brake dust compared to ceramic brake pads thanks to carbon fiber construction
CONS
- Some users report the brake pads only last for a few sessions on the track
Where Does This Model Land in PowerStop’s Lineup?
Made specifically for high-performance driver education and track driving, the Power Stop Track Brake Kit is the best kit available from the Illinois manufacturer. Trusted by amateurs and professionals, this is the official kit of the famed Bondurant Racing School.
What Type of Driver Are These Best For?
With high-end carbon fiber brake pads and smooth and blank rotors that are less susceptible to cracking or warping, this kit is perfect for track driving. It’s also a great choice for muscle car enthusiasts that like to kick up the speed on occasion.
Should I Choose a Different Option on This List?
Because of the high-performance nature of this brake kit, it’s unnecessary for most everyday cars, trucks, and SUVs. More affordable options such as the Evolution series are a more cost-effective and sound alternative.
Bottom Line
Built with the racing enthusiast in mind, the Power Stop Track Brake Kit isn’t for the faint of heart. But regular drivers can save money going with a less expensive option that’s fine-tuned for commuting and errand-running.
8. Power Stop Z36 Truck and Tow Carbon Fiber Ceramic Pads
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PROS
- Work with OEM clips and rotors
- Users report pads lasting up to 35,000 miles
- Powder-coated backing plate limits corrosion
- Thermal-scorched pad surface offers quick bedding
- Quiet braking, even with large trailers or heavy loads
CONS
- Some users reported the need for modifications
- Brake pads only fit full-size trucks and large SUVs
Where Does This Model Land in PowerStop’s Lineup?
Part of Power Stop’s Extreme series of brake parts, the Z36 Truck, and Tow Carbon Fiber Ceramic Pads are the best available for large trucks and SUVs. These provide a notable edge over the Evolution series brake pads.
What Type of Driver Are These Best For?
Thanks to their carbon fiber construction, these brake pads are ideal for those who tow heavy loads at least once a year. In addition, they provide some extra stopping power for off-roading. Keep in mind that these brake pads only work on trucks and SUVs.
Should I Choose a Different Option on This List?
If you drive a compact, midsize, or full-size car, these brakes won’t fit. Furthermore, the amount of stopping power available is unnecessary for cars that aren’t certified to tow or haul. Drivers with cars should look at the Evolution series of brake pads or the Extreme series made for high-performance vehicles.
Bottom Line
Durable and specifically formulated for off-roading and heavy towing, the Power Stop Z36 Truck and Tow Carbon Fiber Ceramic Pads can handle the heaviest loads with ease. Those who don’t tow or off-road may find greater value in the Evolution series of kits from Power Stop.
9. Power Stop Z26 Street Warrior Brake Kit
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PROS
- Drilled and slotted rotors for balanced performance
- Lower amounts of brake dust compared to OEM parts
- Carbon fiber ceramic provides strong stopping power with less heat
- Included hardware makes the kit easy to install without modifications
- Silver and zinc plating provides a mix of corrosion resistance and aesthetics
CONS
- Users report that included clips don’t hold brake pads tight enough
- Some users report that this brake kit doesn’t have the “bite” for some high-performance vehicles
Where Does This Model Land in PowerStop’s Lineup?
As part of the Power Stop Extreme series, the Z26 Street Warrior Brake Kit is the top-class brake kit. Surpassed only by the Track Day kit—which is used for track racing—this kit is the best available option for high-performance, yet everyday driving.
What Type of Driver Are These Best For?
With drilled and slotted rotors and temperature-resistant carbon fiber brake pads, this kit is what’s missing from an impressive sport driving experience. Therefore, drivers that like to put the pedal to the floor but stop on a dime may find this brake kit essential.
Should I Choose a Different Option on This List?
Drivers who don’t own high-performance vehicles will find this brake kit an unnecessary expenditure. Everyday drivers should opt for the Evolution series kit for acceptable braking power at a lower price.
Bottom Line
Although the Power Stop Z26 Street Warrior Brake Kit only works with a limited number of vehicles, it’s a premium car braking kit that affords ample stopping power to counteract your need for speed.
10. Power Stop Z17 Evolution Ceramic Brake Pads
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PROS
- Low-dust design
- Quiet and squeal-free
- Engineered for quick bedding
- Premium stainless steel hardware for easy installation
- Ceramic material provides a step up over semi-metallic options
CONS
- More dust than higher-end Power Stop carbon fiber brake pads
- Users report that these don’t fit some larger, off-road-capable models despite the manufacturer’s fitment list
Where Does This Model Land in PowerStop’s Lineup?
The Power Stop Z17 Evolution Ceramic Brake Pads are the most economical brake pads in the company’s lineup. In most instances, these are an equal alternative when replacing OEM brake pads.
What Type of Driver Are These Best For?
As the most affordable Power Stop brake pads, these are a fantastic choice for the budget-conscious driver. And with an affordable price, they also offer superb value for commuters and everyday driving.
Should I Choose a Different Option on This List?
Drivers that want pinpoint braking or own high-performance vehicles will want to opt for the Track Day or Extreme series brake pads. The same goes for those with large trucks or SUVs that also tow heavy loads regularly.
Bottom Line
For entry-level brake pads, few other options can beat the mix of affordability, durability, and value supplied by Power Stop Z17 Evolution Ceramic Brake Pads. Only driving enthusiasts or those who do heavy towing will notice the difference.
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What Else Does Power Stop Make?
Although Power Stop is best known for its brakes and rotors, the company has also established other product lines with the value and quality consumers have come to trust. Here is a glance at the other components produced by the Illinois manufacturer.
Brake Shoes
Power Stop brake shoes are excellent replacements for stock brake shoes. Made entirely of steel and free of copper and asbestos, they’re both durable and safe. Plus, a secondary post-cure of the brake shoes ensures a quick break-in after just a few drives.
Brake Calipers
Designed to work with Power Stop brake pads and rotors, these brake calipers come in the stock and powder-coated versions. Both are 100% pressure tested and use high temperature EPDM rubber for longevity and durability.
Brake Hoses
Made from braided stainless steel, Power Stop brake hoses offer a long-term solution to braking systems. Each brake hose kit comes with all the hardware necessary for easy installation from the brake line to the brake caliper.
Pad Wear Sensors
Nearly identical to the OEM equivalent, Power Stop pad wear sensors illuminate the proper dashboard lights as brake pads wear. For the safety of the driver and occupants, this part is every bit as essential as replacing the brake pads and rotors.
Big Brake Kits
Although Power Stop has several brake kits for towing, everyday driving, and high-performance, the big brake kit does the literal heavy lifting. Engineered for lifted suspensions, large tires, off-roading, and overland driving, these brakes provide braking power for the most rugged vehicles around.
Power Stop vs. the Competition
Power Stop vs. StopTech
Both Power Stop and StopTech are leaders in brake manufacturing with several coincidental similarities. Each company has its roots in the Midwest and was founded in 1995. In addition, both have a large mix of braking products for daily driving and performance purposes.However, StopTech focuses more on the racing and high-performance aspects. While Power Stop also has track-ready braking products, they also offer product lines for towing and everyday use—two aspects that separate it from StopTech.
Power Stop vs. EBC
Started in 1978, EBC has nearly two decades of experience, manufacturing, and distribution over Power Stop. As such, they have a higher price point than Power Stop options. However, like StopTech, EBC focuses more on the high-end of the braking system spectrum, putting its efforts into track-ready pads, shoes, and rotors.
For nearly every other driving situation outside of racing, Power Stop may have the edge. Its products are a more budget-friendly, sensible choice. The ability to choose products tailored to everyday driving, off-roading and towing is a bonus. Plus, Power Stop pads and rotors give off far less brake dust than EBC options according to consumers.
Power Stop vs. Centric
Unlike PowerStop, Centric covers nearly every aspect of braking systems. Their product line ranges from air disc brakes to coil springs and struts mounts. While the company still produces brakes and rotors, it doesn’t have a specific focus on them.
Conversely, Power Stop focuses its research, development, and manufacturing to just a handful of braking components. As a result, Power Stop brake products carry a higher price tag than Centric, but the added expenditure yields better results and stopping power.
Putting a Stop to Brake Problems
With a sizable array of brake pads, rotors, and kits, Power Stop has a braking solution for every type of budget and driving style. Combined with the other components in the Power Stop product lineup, drivers, mechanics, and do-it-yourself personalities can eliminate brake-related issues and build a braking system that’s safe and efficient at a nominal price.
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People Also Ask
Although PowerStop is one of the most trusted names in aftermarket brake parts, you may have some questions regarding its business or products. Here are a few of the most commonly asked questions by potential PowerStop brake product purchasers.
Where Are PowerStop Brakes Made?
PowerStop produces all of its brake products at ISO-certified factories to ensure the quality is up to par. While all of its parts are made in China, the company sends representatives (engineers) to these factories regularly to maintain quality and consistency standards.
Who Makes PowerStop Brakes?
PowerStop brakes are produced by PowerStop—a private, 100% American-owned company based in the suburbs of Chicago. The owner is still Arvin Scott, a lifelong mechanic and the original founder of the company.
