Brake system upgrades — discs, pads, sport kits

The brake system is one of the most safety-critical assemblies in a car, which is why modifications in this area face stricter requirements than most other changes.

What you need

A sport brake kit (larger discs, multi-piston calipers) should be homologated for your specific model. If homologation is missing, a technical assessment from an accredited testing body is required, followed by registering the change at the local authority (ORP).

What to watch out for

• Wheel compatibility — larger discs and calipers need sufficient clearance against the wheels you use; an incompatible combination can prevent fitting regular wheels (e.g. winter wheels).
• Brake force distribution — changing only one axle can disturb the balance of braking effect between front and rear.
• Brake fluid and hoses — higher-performance kits often also need a fluid change (higher boiling point) and new hoses; these parts should carry matching certification too.
• Replacing standard parts — simply swapping pads and discs for dimensionally identical, certified replacement parts (sport ones included) without a homologation deviation usually doesn't require registration — what matters is always dimensional match with the original.

Recommendation

Before installing a sport brake kit, check wheel compatibility and brake-force distribution with a technician — brakes are not the place to improvise.