1st brake upgrade 1.4 sport

tk1102

Guest
Hello All,

I’ve recently bought an ‘07 Mk4 Ibiza 1.4 Sport, from a family member in case it matters it’s the 85bhp version. I previously had the 1.2 12v and thoroughly enjoyed it. When the opportunity arose I thought why not go for a little upgrade.

There are a few things that need fixing on it, most aren’t particularly exciting but once I’ve bought the car back to its former glory it will be a nice little run around. There’s lots of information on here and I will be using the resources in other areas as well as trying to get your collective thoughts on these in due course. The key question I want to raise now, however, relates to my brakes. These need replacing, pads definitely and discs not far behind. I’ve never been overly impressed with the brakes on the Ibiza. This subject has been covered on a cupra on here before I think but I’m still confused and really looking at the lower end of the market.

As a first venture into potentially upgrading my brakes, but bearing in mind it’s a 1.4, can you guys recommend a good value ‘step up’. I used to be all over this stuff when I was younger but over the years lost touch. I’ve researched EBC, but found mixed reviews; Tarox seem a bit much for what I’m looking for; I came across some black diamond discs for £100 quid a pair which seemed reasonable; and DS2500 pads have been banded about a lot but for a range of different cars and performance levels which doesn’t seem right.

If anyone can offer a disc & pad combo that’s still easy to live with day to day (I live in London and often driving will be stop go) but when I take it out onto the open road I can enjoy the benefits of some better stopping power and added ‘bite’ it would be much appreciated. Also, academic at this level of performance I’m sure but, if anyone has views on grooves/drilled discs then feel free to chuck your 2 cents in.

If anyone can also confirm disc sizes that I can get without messing about with spacers or altering the hubs etc that would also be really helpful. I’ve got drums on the rear so we are focusing on fronts. I believe standard are 256mm but would 288mm fit ok with no bother? I’ve got standard 16” alloys, these won’t be changing.

I should mention I’m useless at getting my hands dirty so will be looking for someone to fit these instead of just fitting the standard brakes. If you guys know anyone good in SE London let me know.

Many thanks look forward to getting your opinions
 

vroomtshh

Full Member
Sep 11, 2005
4,222
3
Dreghorn, Scotland
You can't fit 288mm brakes without changing the hubs.

IMO, the best thing you could do, is a complete refresh. Pagid discs and pads from euro, fresh fluid, and fresh front hoses. Its not really a car that needs high temp pads, or grooved discs or anything else. If the brakes are bad, its most likely because they've nver been looked at since it left the factory
 

S7UYJ

Active Member
Sep 7, 2010
320
0
Manchester
You can't fit 288mm brakes without changing the hubs.

IMO, the best thing you could do, is a complete refresh. Pagid discs and pads from euro, fresh fluid, and fresh front hoses. Its not really a car that needs high temp pads, or grooved discs or anything else. If the brakes are bad, its most likely because they've nver been looked at since it left the factory

+1 for above, it's amazing what a fluid change can do for the brakes!

IMO uprated disc and pads only really offer benefit when being used hard, fade won't be an issue and in term so longevity it's a case of driving style.
 

tk1102

Guest
Thanks guys,

Really helpful common sense advice which will save me a lot of time, hassle and money!