As perhaps the most recognizable brand in brakes, a Brembo big brake kit exudes a sense of quality. But Brembo isn’t just for aftermarket install. There are some major luxury and sports car brands that offer Brembo brakes from factory as well. And sure, Brembo big brake kits aren’t cheap, but they’re almost always worth it.

What makes Brembo brakes different

Brembo brakes are different than standard brakes you might find on lower-end cars. Those are designed for practicality and comfort rather than performance and luxury. But what makes a big brake kit different from standard brakes?

For one, Brembo brakes are made of a high-friction material to optimize braking power. Along with that, most Brembo rotors are drilled and slotted rather than solid or vented. The drilled holes and slots increase the surface area of the rotor and allow heat to dissipate more effectively.

Related: You May Be Using Your Brakes Incorrectly

When brakes begin to overheat they can warp and fade. While this is uncommon in more popular cars that you see on your daily commute, it is a potential problem when braking from high speeds. Whether you’re on a race track or descending a steep mountain grade, better brakes are the key to a confident driving experience.

Are Brembo big brake kits worth the cash?

The answer to this question really comes down to personal preference and your driving style. You can find a way to fit a Brembo big brake kit onto many cars. However, most don’t require the added braking power. The addition of larger, high-performance brakes isn’t necessary outside of a few specific scenarios. For your standard daily driver, they probably aren’t worth the four-figure price tag.

What cars have Brembo brakes?

You can install Brembo brakes on almost anything, but there are some cars that use Brembo performance brakes form the factory. High-end sports cars from Audi, Porsche, and Lamborghini often utilize Brembo brake kits. And BMW M Cars like the newest M2 and M5 come with Brembo-manufactured brakes, even though they’re emblazoned with the M Logo instead.

Brembo brakes might not be the only high-performance braking system out there, but they are one of the most widely recognized and most reputable, even if you don’t know much about cars.