Key Parts

About Key Parts

Key Parts is a UK value-end brake-friction brand serving the cost-sensitive end of the aftermarket. The range covers pads and shoes for cars, vans and light commercials, with the R-90 type approval required for road-legal brake friction in the UK and EU.

Where Key Parts sits in the brake market

Like Abtex and Don, Key Parts targets garages and DIYers where the priority is a legal, working brake at the lowest reasonable cost. The friction is type-approved, which means it meets the EU's minimum stopping-distance and fade-resistance standards. It isn't a premium pad — the bite is less consistent, dust output is higher than premium, and pad life is shorter than a high-end compound. But for a fleet vehicle, a runabout, or an MOT preparation job, the value proposition is clear.

When to choose Key Parts

For older UK family cars, taxis, trade vans and any application where the customer is highly price-sensitive — Key Parts is a sensible legal choice. For mid-market and premium applications, step up to Apec Black, Mintex or Textar. For performance applications, stick with Brembo or Pagid.

The general rule for choosing a brake friction is: match the spec to the car's expected use. A premium pad on a value-end vehicle is overspecified; a value pad on a premium vehicle is underspecified.

Browse Key Parts brake pads and shoes mapped to your vehicle by entering your registration above.

Visit the Key Parts site for the current range.