Brake pads

Brake pads are key components of the braking system, responsible for generating the friction necessary to stop a vehicle. Combined with the brake discs, pads provide precise braking and vehicle control in every situation. At Global Parts, you'll find a wide selection of used car parts , including brake pads, ideal for BMW , Audi , Volkswagen , Mercedes , Mini , and more .

What exactly are brake pads and how do they work in practice?

Brake pads are friction components mounted in brake calipers that press against a rotating disc when the brake pedal is depressed. Friction converts the vehicle's kinetic energy into thermal energy, reducing speed or bringing the vehicle to a complete stop. In a typical passenger car, the braking force generated by the pads and discs accounts for as much as 70–80% of the braking efficiency, particularly on the front axle. Depending on the system design, different pads are used for the front and rear of the vehicle. For example , BMW E60 front brake pads have a larger friction surface than the rear elements, while BMW E90 rear brake pads are designed for stability and even distribution of braking forces.

What are the functions of brake pads ?

Brake pads play a fundamental role in the safety and efficiency of the braking system:

• Generating braking force – By friction with the brake discs, the pads effectively reduce the vehicle's speed.
• Heat dissipation – The design of the pads allows the heat generated during braking to be dissipated, preventing the system from overheating.
• Braking stability – High-quality pads minimize vibrations and ensure smooth vehicle stopping.

Friction materials and their influence on braking efficiency

Modern brake pads are manufactured from a mixture of friction materials, the composition of which influences braking performance, driving comfort, and compatibility with discs. The most common solutions include:

• semi-metallic pads – they contain metal admixtures, dissipate heat well and are widely used in mid-range cars,
• ceramic pads – characterized by a stable friction coefficient and less dust,
• organic pads – ensure smooth braking during everyday city driving. For models such as Mini Cooper R56 brake pads, the selection of the appropriate friction material is important for both the efficiency and the smooth operation of the entire braking system.

Why is it worth taking care of your brake pads ?

Worn or damaged brake pads can lead to reduced braking performance and an increased risk of accidents. Typical symptoms include:

• Squealing when braking – May indicate excessive wear of the friction material.
• Extended braking time – Worn pads reduce the effectiveness of the braking system.
• Uneven braking – Damaged pads can cause vibrations and reduced vehicle control. If you need a replacement, you'll find the right used car parts at Global Parts, which will restore full functionality of your braking system.

Symptoms and characteristics of brake pad operation in everyday use

Under normal driving conditions, brake pads wear gradually, and their performance should be predictable and stable. With mixed driving (city and highway), a set of front brake pads can last an average of 40,000–70,000 km, depending on vehicle weight, driving style, and disc type. Rear brake pads—e.g., BMW E90 rear brake pads —often achieve longer mileage due to lower axle loads. Correctly matched pads work with discs, calipers, and the ABS and DSC systems, ensuring even distribution of braking forces on all wheels.

How to choose the right brake pads ?

When choosing brake pads, there are several key aspects to consider:

• Vehicle-specific fit – Every braking system has its own specific technical requirements. At Global Parts , you'll find brake pads perfectly matched to BMW , Audi , Volkswagen , Mercedes , Mini , and more .
• Technical condition – Used pads should have the appropriate thickness of friction material and be free from damage.
• Friction Material Type – Choose between ceramic, semi-metallic or organic pads, depending on your driving style and technical requirements.

Matching pads to a specific model and axle – comparison table

The correct selection of brake pads is based on the model, generation, mounting axis, and disc type. The table below presents examples of design differences:

Vehicle model	Axis	Characteristics of the blocks	Typical use
BMW E90	Back	Smaller friction surface, stabilization of the driving track	Daily city driving and route
BMW E60	Front	Greater mass and work surface	Basic braking
Mini Cooper R56	Front / Back	Compact blocks matched to the lightweight body	Dynamic city driving

Why choose used brake pads ?

Used car parts , such as used brake pads , is an economical solution that allows you to save money while maintaining high quality. By choosing used braking system components, you gain:

• Lower costs – Used pads are much cheaper than new ones, but offer equally high quality.
• Ecology – Recycling parts supports environmental protection and reduces waste.
• A wide range – In our store you will find used brake pads for the most popular car brands.

Compatibility and cost savings in practice

Used brake pads allow for compatibility with the factory braking system without the need for costly replacement of entire sets. In practice, this means the pads can be matched to existing discs, calipers, and accessories, helping to optimize service costs . This solution is often chosen by owners of premium cars like BMW and Mini, where original components are characterized by high durability.

How to take care of brake pads ?

To ensure that your brake pads function reliably for a long time, it is important to follow a few rules:

• Regular inspections – Check the condition of your brake pads during periodic technical inspections of your braking system.
• Avoid hard braking – Driving carefully reduces wear on brake pads and other brake components.
• Replace your pads in good time – Pads that are too thin can reduce braking efficiency and damage the discs. If you need a replacement, Global Parts has the right used car parts to ensure the safety and durability of your braking system.

The interaction of brake pads with other components of the braking system

Brake pads work in close cooperation with discs, calipers, guides, and brake assist systems. Their proper fit not only affects the vehicle's stopping power but also ensures even disc wear and the stability of the entire system. This is an important factor when planning further upgrades or replacement of related components.

FAQ - Frequently asked questions about brake pads

Question	Answer
What are brake pads?	Brake pads are friction elements of the braking system that reduce the vehicle's speed by friction with the disc.
How do car brake pads work?	When you press the brake pedal, the pads are pressed against the disc, converting the energy of movement into heat.
What is the difference between front and rear pads?	The front pads are responsible for most of the braking force, while the rear pads stabilize the driving track.
Are the BMW E90 rear brake pads different from the front versions?	Yes, they have a different design and a smaller friction surface, adapted to the rear axle.
How to choose brake pads for BMW E60?	The selection depends on the mounting axis – BMW E60 front brake pads have different parameters than the rear ones.
Are the Mini Cooper R56 brake pads specific to this model?	Yes, they are designed with compact design and vehicle weight in mind.

Summary: Brake Pads at Global Parts Automotive Store

Brake pads are the foundation of the braking system, ensuring effective and safe stopping. By maintaining their technical condition, you can improve braking performance and avoid costly repairs. The Global Parts automotive store invites you to browse our wide selection of original used car parts . Whether you're looking for car parts for BMW , Audi , Volkswagen , Mercedes, Mini , and more, you'll find them at competitive prices. We strive to ensure every customer finds the right parts for their car, and if you have any questions or concerns about selecting the right components, we're happy to help! Please contact us – we're here to help! For more information and interesting facts, visit our automotive blog .