Master Your Stops: 7 Power Stop Performance Brake Pads Rotors Kits Including K179-26

When it comes to your vehicle, few things are as crucial as its braking system. Whether you’re navigating daily commutes, hitting the track, or hauling heavy loads, reliable stopping power gives you peace of mind and keeps you safe. That’s where Power Stop comes in. They’re renowned for their high-quality, performance-focused brake kits designed to upgrade your ride from the ground up.

In this comprehensive guide, we’re diving deep into some of Power Stop’s top offerings, including the highly sought-after Power Stop Performance Brake Pads Rotors Kit K179-26. We’ll break down what makes each kit stand out, who it’s best for, and why upgrading your brakes might just be the smartest move you make for your car.

Why Choose Power Stop for Your Brake Upgrade?

Power Stop has built a solid reputation in the automotive world for delivering “1-Click” brake kits that take the guesswork out of upgrading. Their kits often include everything you need for a complete axle, from the rotors to the pads and all the necessary hardware. But it’s not just about convenience; it’s about superior performance.

Their Z23 Evolution Sport and Z26 Street Warrior series are particularly popular, featuring carbon-fiber ceramic brake pads and drilled & slotted rotors. This combination isn’t just for show; it’s engineered to provide better bite, reduce brake fade under heavy use, minimize dust, and ensure quiet operation. In short, Power Stop aims to give you a noticeable improvement over your vehicle’s stock braking system, making your ride safer and more enjoyable.

Our Top 7 Power Stop Performance Brake Kits Reviewed

Let’s explore some of the best Power Stop performance brake pads and rotors kits available on the market, each designed to meet specific needs and vehicle types.

1. Power Stop K7028-26 Front and Rear Z26 Carbon Fiber Brake Kit

This full front and rear Z26 Street Performance brake upgrade kit is a fantastic choice for Subaru owners looking to seriously boost their stopping power. Specifically tailored for models like the Subaru Legacy, WRX, and Outback, it’s designed to handle the demands of higher horsepower and modified vehicles. The kit comes with everything you need – drilled and slotted rotors for optimal cooling and carbon-fiber ceramic pads that stand up to intense conditions, ensuring consistent, reliable performance far beyond what factory brakes can offer.

• Key Features:

  • Complete front and rear brake kit (rotors, pads, hardware).
  • Z26 Carbon-Fiber Ceramic formula brake pads for superior stopping power and low dust/noise.
  • Drilled & slotted rotors for maximum cooling and fade resistance.
  • Silver Zinc Dichromate plating on rotors for rust and corrosion protection.
  • Engineered for high performance, high horsepower muscle and modified cars.
  • Ready for quick, easy bolt-on installation with no modifications.
  • 36 month / 36,000 miles warranty.
  • Specific fitment for select 2015-2020 Subaru Legacy, WRX, and Outback models.

• Pros:

  • Significant upgrade in stopping power and pedal feel.
  • Excellent heat dissipation prevents brake fade.
  • Resistant to rust and corrosion thanks to zinc plating.
  • Low noise and reduced brake dust compared to OE.
  • Comprehensive kit for a full axle, easy DIY installation.

• Cons:

  • Premium price point due to performance focus.
  • Vehicle-specific fitment requires careful checking.

• User Impressions: Owners rave about the immediate improvement in braking responsiveness and confidence, especially for spirited driving. Many commend the quiet operation and the noticeable reduction in brake dust, keeping wheels cleaner.

See it on Amazon here

2. Power Stop K179 Rear Z23 Carbon Fiber Brake Pads with Drilled & Slotted Rotors

If you’re looking to upgrade just your rear brakes, the Power Stop K179 Rear Z23 kit is an excellent standalone option. Featuring Power Stop’s Carbon-Fiber Ceramic compound, these pads deliver significantly enhanced braking performance over traditional ceramic pads, all while generating about 30% less dust than original equipment. Paired with zinc-plated drilled and slotted rotors, this kit ensures your rear wheels contribute effectively to your overall stopping power, with quiet, cool operation.

• Key Features:

  • Carbon-Fiber Ceramic compound for enhanced braking and low dust.
  • Dual layer high-temp rubberized shims for virtually silent braking.
  • Drilled & Slotted Performance Rotors for maximum cooling and fade resistance.
  • Zinc plating on rotors for maximum protection against rust.

• Pros:

  • Noticeably less brake dust, keeping wheels cleaner.
  • Quiet operation, ideal for daily driving.
  • Improved heat management for consistent performance.
  • Excellent rust protection for longer lifespan.

• Cons:

  • Only a rear kit, so a separate front kit is needed for a full upgrade.
  • Z23 is a step down in aggression from Z26, though still a major upgrade over OE.

• User Impressions: Many drivers find this rear kit provides a perfect balance of performance and comfort, praising its low dust output and quiet stops. It’s often recommended as a great complement to an existing front brake upgrade.

See it on Amazon here

3. Power Stop K179-26 Z26 Street Warrior 1-Click Brake Kit

Ah, the Power Stop Performance Brake Pads Rotors Kit K179-26 – the star of our show and a popular choice for performance enthusiasts! While specific detailed features for this exact product weren’t provided, its “Z26 Street Warrior” designation means it’s part of Power Stop’s high-performance line, designed for muscle cars, modified vehicles, and anyone demanding serious stopping power. You can expect a complete, bolt-on solution for an axle (front or rear, depending on the specific K179-26 configuration), featuring robust carbon-fiber ceramic brake pads and precision-drilled & slotted rotors. This kit is all about maximizing your vehicle’s braking capability while minimizing noise and dust.

• Key Features (Inferred from Z26 Series):

  • Carbon-Fiber Ceramic brake pads engineered for extreme stopping power.
  • Drilled & slotted rotors for superior heat dissipation and gas venting.
  • Low dust and noise output for comfortable street driving.
  • Direct bolt-on replacement for stock components.
  • Designed for high-performance, high-horsepower applications.

• Pros (Inferred):

  • Elite stopping power suitable for aggressive driving.
  • Excellent resistance to brake fade during intense use.
  • Aesthetic upgrade with the drilled and slotted design.
  • Comes as a complete “1-Click” kit for easy installation.

• Cons (Inferred):

  • Potentially higher initial cost than a standard replacement.
  • May require a brief break-in period for optimal performance.

• User Impressions: Users frequently praise the dramatic improvement in brake feel and the confidence it instills during hard braking. The reduced noise and dust are also consistent highlights, making it a favorite for those who push their cars.

See it on Amazon here

4. Power Stop K8530-26 Front and Rear Z26 Street Warrior Kit

Corvette owners, rejoice! The Power Stop K8530-26 is specifically designed for the performance demands of the 2020-2024 Chevrolet Corvette Stingray with the Z51 package. This front and rear Z26 Street Performance brake upgrade kit ensures your ‘Vette has the stopping power to match its incredible horsepower. It brings together Power Stop’s signature carbon-fiber ceramic pads and drilled & slotted rotors, all engineered to work in harmony for optimal performance under the most strenuous conditions.

• Key Features:

  • Full front and rear brake upgrade for specific Corvette models.
  • Z26 Carbon-Fiber Ceramic brake pads for high performance.
  • Drilled & slotted rotors for superior cooling and fade resistance.
  • Components engineered to maximize stopping power and durability.
  • Out-performs OE brakes and resists brake dust and noise.

• Pros:

  • Tailored for high-performance Corvettes, ensuring perfect fit and function.
  • Dramatically improves braking performance for spirited driving.
  • Reduces brake fade during track days or aggressive street driving.
  • Maintains a clean aesthetic with low dust.

• Cons:

  • High-performance kit, thus a higher investment.
  • Exclusively for the specified Corvette models.

• User Impressions: Corvette owners report a significant enhancement in brake bite and confidence, especially when pushing the car hard. The ability to stop shorter and more consistently without fade is a common positive takeaway.

See it on Amazon here

5. Power Stop K1418-26 Front and Rear Z26 Carbon Fiber Brake Kit

This Power Stop K1418-26 kit offers a robust front and rear Z26 Carbon Fiber brake upgrade for vehicles that need serious stopping capability without sacrificing everyday drivability. It’s engineered for cars with increased horsepower and modified setups, focusing on dust-free performance and quiet operation. The combination of premium stainless steel shims and drilled and slotted rotors means your brakes will stay cool and responsive even in the most demanding situations.

• Key Features:

  • Engineered for high horsepower and modified vehicles.
  • Dust-free braking performance.
  • Premium stainless steel shims for improved heat dissipation and quiet operation.
  • Drilled and slotted rotors for optimal cooling in extreme conditions.
  • Performance bolt-on upgrade for stock brakes with no compromise on daily drivability.

• Pros:

  • Excellent balance of performance for both track and street.
  • Significantly reduced brake dust, keeping wheels clean.
  • Virtually noiseless operation, enhancing driving comfort.
  • Direct fitment, simplifying installation.

• Cons:

  • Compatibility must be checked carefully for your specific vehicle.
  • May be overkill for purely casual daily drivers.

• User Impressions: Customers often highlight the impressive lack of dust and noise, combined with the reassuringly strong braking power. They appreciate that the kit feels right at home in daily traffic but can also handle more spirited driving with ease.

See it on Amazon here

6. Power Stop K6806-26 Front Z26 Carbon Fiber Brake Kit

Ford Mustang owners with 4-piston front calipers, this one’s for you! The Power Stop K6806-26 provides a formidable front Z26 Street Performance brake upgrade specifically designed to meet the demands of high-performance Mustangs, including EcoBoost and GT models. This kit delivers extreme stopping power, thanks to its carbon-fiber ceramic pads and drilled & slotted rotors, which are also protected by a silver zinc dichromate plating to fight off rust and corrosion. It’s a complete, bolt-on solution that promises a significant improvement over stock.

• Key Features:

  • Front brake kit for specific Ford Mustang EcoBoost/GT models with 4-piston front calipers.
  • Z26 Carbon-Fiber Ceramic brake pads for superior performance.
  • Drilled & slotted rotors for maximum brake cooling and fade resistance.
  • Silver Zinc Dichromate plating on rotors for excellent rust protection.
  • Components designed for high performance, high horsepower, and modified cars.
  • Complete kit with all necessary hardware for easy bolt-on installation.
  • 36 month / 36,000 miles warranty.

• Pros:

  • Dramatically improved front-end stopping power for performance vehicles.
  • Enhanced heat management for consistent braking even under stress.
  • Long-lasting protection against rust and corrosion.
  • Direct fit, making installation straightforward for DIYers.

• Cons:

  • This is a front-only kit, so a separate rear kit might be desired for a full upgrade.
  • Requires careful verification of your Mustang’s caliper type.

• User Impressions: Mustang enthusiasts frequently report a night-and-day difference in braking feel and performance. The enhanced safety and control, particularly during hard braking, are major selling points for those who enjoy pushing their cars.

See it on Amazon here

7. Power Stop K3019-26 Rear Z26 Carbon Fiber Brake Kit

For muscle car enthusiasts driving a Chevrolet Camaro SS/ZL1 or Cadillac CTS-V, the Power Stop K3019-26 offers a dedicated rear Z26 Street Performance brake upgrade. This kit is tailored to complement the formidable power of these vehicles, ensuring the rear brakes contribute significantly to overall stopping capability. Just like other Z26 kits, it features carbon-fiber ceramic pads for extreme performance and drilled & slotted rotors with zinc plating for maximum cooling and corrosion resistance.

• Key Features:

  • Rear brake kit for specific Chevrolet Camaro SS/ZL1 and Cadillac CTS-V models.
  • Z26 Carbon-Fiber Ceramic brake pads for high performance.
  • Drilled & slotted rotors for maximum brake cooling and fade resistance.
  • Silver Zinc Dichromate plating on rotors for superior rust and corrosion protection.
  • Engineered for high performance, high horsepower muscle and modified cars.
  • Complete kit with all necessary hardware for easy bolt-on installation.
  • 36 month / 36,000 miles warranty.

• Pros:

  • Optimizes rear brake performance, balancing the entire braking system.
  • Reduces brake fade and improves heat management at the rear axle.
  • Excellent durability and corrosion resistance for long-term use.
  • Easy, direct bolt-on installation.

• Cons:

  • Rear-only kit, requiring a separate front kit for a full vehicle upgrade.
  • Fitment is specific to certain high-performance models.

• User Impressions: Owners of these powerful vehicles appreciate the improved balance and stability under hard braking. Many note how effectively this rear kit helps keep the car composed and reduces overall stopping distances when combined with a robust front setup.

See it on Amazon here

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q1: What exactly are Power Stop “Z26 Street Warrior” kits?
A: Power Stop’s Z26 Street Warrior kits are their premium performance line designed for high-horsepower, modified, and muscle cars. They feature carbon-fiber ceramic brake pads and drilled & slotted rotors engineered to deliver extreme stopping power, reduce brake fade, and operate with minimal noise and dust under demanding conditions.

Q2: How do carbon-fiber ceramic pads differ from traditional brake pads?
A: Carbon-fiber ceramic pads offer superior heat resistance and a higher friction coefficient compared to traditional organic or semi-metallic pads. This results in better stopping power, significantly reduced brake fade during heavy use, and often, much less brake dust and quieter operation.

Q3: What are the benefits of drilled and slotted rotors?
A: Drilled holes help dissipate heat more effectively and provide an escape route for gases, dust, and debris. Slotted grooves wipe away surface contaminants from the pad, maintaining consistent contact and improving bite. Together, they enhance cooling, reduce fade, and improve wet weather performance, resulting in better overall stopping power.

Q4: How often should I replace my brake pads and rotors?
A: This varies greatly depending on your driving style, vehicle type, and conditions. Generally, brake pads should be inspected every 10,000-15,000 miles, and rotors can last longer, often through two sets of pads. Performance kits like the Power Stop Performance Brake Pads Rotors Kit K179-26 are designed for durability, but always refer to your vehicle’s maintenance schedule and inspect components regularly.

Q5: Is installation difficult for Power Stop 1-Click kits?
A: Power Stop 1-Click kits are designed for straightforward, bolt-on installation, meaning they’re direct replacements for your factory components without requiring modifications. While a mechanically inclined DIYer can often handle it, if you’re uncomfortable working on your vehicle’s critical safety systems, professional installation is always recommended.

Q6: Will these Power Stop kits fit my specific vehicle?
A: Each Power Stop kit is engineered for specific vehicle make, model, and year combinations, and sometimes even trim levels (e.g., Z51 package, 4-piston calipers). It’s crucial to use the “Amazon Confirmed Fit” tool or consult the product’s fitment guide carefully before purchasing to ensure compatibility.

Q7: Do Power Stop brake kits come with a warranty?
A: Many Power Stop kits, especially the Z26 series, come with a warranty. For example, some kits mentioned here offer a 36-month / 36,000-mile warranty. Always check the specific product listing for details on its warranty coverage.

Conclusion

Upgrading your vehicle’s braking system is one of the most impactful improvements you can make for safety, performance, and driving enjoyment. Power Stop offers a fantastic range of kits, from the versatile Power Stop Performance Brake Pads Rotors Kit K179-26 to vehicle-specific solutions for Corvettes and Mustangs. With their focus on carbon-fiber ceramic pads and drilled & slotted rotors, you’re not just getting replacements; you’re getting a significant performance boost that will give you the confidence to master your stops, no matter where the road takes you. Invest in your safety and your ride’s performance – you won’t regret it!