Choosing a brake system is not just a matter of searching for a spare part by catalog number, but a matter of personal safety for the driver and passengers on the road. Brand Textar has earned a reputation as one of the market leaders thanks to its original formulations of friction mixtures and strict quality control. The correct selection of components allows you to avoid whistling, dust and uneven wear of discs, which is especially important for modern cars with complex stabilization electronics.
Many car owners make the mistake of relying solely on the visual similarity of old and new pads. However, even a millimeter deviation in geometry or mixture composition can lead to reduced braking efficiency. Textar offers the widest range of products, covering both budget segments and premium sports series, so accurate knowledge of the parameters of your car is critically important.
In this article, we will look at how professional selection is carried out, what markings to pay attention to, and why the manufacturer’s article number often differs from the original number. Understanding these nuances will help you not to overpay for the brand and get a product that will last the entire declared resource.
Textar technologies and the meaning of markings
The company is part of the TMD Friction concern, which guarantees the use of advanced developments in the field of friction. Each series of pads has its own purpose: from environmentally friendly compounds epad to reinforced versions for severe operating conditions. When searching for spare parts yourself, it is important to understand the coding system, as it contains hidden information about the production date and specifications.
On the back of the metal plate there is always a serial number, which consists of letters and numbers. The first characters often indicate the type of friction compound, and the subsequent ones indicate compatibility with specific platforms. For example, the presence of an abbreviation PRO The title of the series speaks of a professional level of protection against noise and vibration.
⚠️ Attention: Never buy pads if the markings on the metal base are erased or applied with low-quality paint that can be easily cleaned off with a finger. This is a sure sign of counterfeit products, which can be destroyed at the first emergency braking.
Particular attention should be paid to the series Textar PRO, which is equipped with additional elements: wear sensors, anti-squeak plates and special lubricant. This eliminates the need to search for small parts separately and ensures that there will be no problems with fittings when assembling the unit.
Modern mixtures are developed taking into account the environmental requirements of the European Union, which means the absence of heavy metals in the composition. This not only reduces harm to the environment, but also reduces the amount of brake dust that settles on the rims, keeping them looking neat for much longer.
The secret of marking color
The color of the red or blue paint on the end of a Textar pad often indicates a specific manufacturing plant or batch, but does not affect physical properties. However, if the color differs sharply from the previous set, this is a reason to check the quality certificate with the seller.
Selection algorithm by VIN code and catalog
The most reliable way to find the correct components is to use the unique vehicle identification number. VIN code contains complete equipment information, including the type of brake system installed from the factory. This is especially important for German brands such as Audi, BMW and Mercedes-Benz, where up to three different types of calipers could be installed on one model.
The search process through electronic catalogs requires care. First, select the brand, then the model and year of manufacture. At this stage, the system can offer several options, differing in the diameter of the disk or the number of mounting holes. Here you need to check the data with the physical parameters of your car.
When working with paper or PDF catalogs Textar cross number tables should be used. They allow you to find an analogue by the original part number (OEM). If your old kit has a number starting with 1K0 or 345, the table will indicate the corresponding Tektar article number.
It is important to consider that after the model was restyled, the brake design may have changed. Therefore, the year of manufacture plays a secondary role compared to the month of production of a particular car. Always check the build date shown on the vehicle registration certificate.
Pad series: differences between Standard, PRO and epad
The brand's product line is divided into several key areas, each of which focuses on the specific needs of the driver. Understanding the difference between them will help you make an informed choice and avoid overpaying for unnecessary features or, conversely, saving on security.
Series Standard is a basic solution that fully complies with the requirements of the car manufacturer in terms of quality and service life. This is the optimal choice for everyday city driving and quiet highway travel. They provide stable braking and predictable behavior.
Versions Textar PRO created for those who value maximum comfort. The kit includes all the necessary accessories: lubricant, springs, sensors. A special gasket on the rear side effectively dampens high-frequency vibrations, preventing unpleasant squeaking even at low temperatures.
- 🛑 Environmental friendliness: The epad series is free of copper and heavy metals, resulting in cleaner brake exhaust.
- 🔇 Acoustic comfort: PRO versions are equipped with multi-layer anti-vibration pads.
- 🛡️ Resource: Reinforced compounds last 20-30% longer than standard analogues.
Sports series such as GT or Racing, require warming up to reach the operating temperature range. In the city they may work less efficiently and make more noise, but on the track they show phenomenal results, without “swimming” when overheating.
When purchasing the PRO series, be sure to check the lubricant included in the kit. Sometimes unscrupulous sellers open the box and remove the tube for separate sale, leaving the buyer with an incomplete set.
Compatibility table of popular models
To simplify the initial orientation in the assortment, we have compiled a correspondence table for common cars. Please note that the data is for reference only and final selection should be based on visual inspection or VIN query.
| Car | Axis | Approximate article number Textar | Series |
|---|---|---|---|
| VW Golf VI | Front | 2356401 | Standard |
| BMW 3 (E90) | Rear | 2339501 | PRO |
| Audi A4 (B8) | Front | 2455001 | epad |
| Mercedes C-Class | Rear | 2398601 | Standard |
Part numbers shown in the table are examples and may vary depending on the year of manufacture and engine size. For example, for engines 2.0 TDI and 3.0 TFSI Often different brake mechanisms are used, requiring distinct pads.
When ordering through online stores, always check with the manager whether the product picture matches your request. Sometimes in catalogs a photo may be universal, but in reality the kit will come in a different shape. Checking the number of holes for the guides is a mandatory step.
Diagnostics of wear and preparation for replacement
Before you place an order for a new set, you need to evaluate the condition of your current brakes. The residual thickness of the friction lining is considered critical if it is less than 2-3 millimeters. However, if you notice a decrease in efficiency or the appearance of deep grooves on the disc, it is worth replacing sooner.
The diagnostic process begins with removing the wheel. Visually inspect the disc for cracks, chips, and “steps” along the edge. If the disc has deep grooves, install new pads Textar will be ineffective: the contact area will be insufficient, which will lead to overheating and rapid failure.
☑️ Check before purchase
You should also pay attention to the brake fluid. Its replacement is recommended every two years or after 40-60 thousand kilometers, as it is hygroscopic and accumulates moisture. When the liquid boils, gas plugs form in the lines, and the brake pedal “fails.”
⚠️ Attention: If during diagnostics a skewed pad or uneven wear is detected (one side is more worn), this indicates a malfunction of the caliper guides. Replacing the pads without repairing the mechanism will lead to a recurrence of the problem after a couple of thousand kilometers.
Frequent errors during installation and operation
Even the highest quality product can be ruined by improper installation. One of the most common mistakes is neglecting to clean and lubricate the guides. Dry metal quickly oxidizes, the piston warps, and the pad begins to jam, constantly rubbing against the disc.
The use of unsuitable lubricants, such as lithol or graphite, is unacceptable. They destroy rubber seals and melt at high temperatures. To assemble the unit, it is necessary to use special high-temperature synthetic-based lubricants that are not afraid of water and heat.
After installing the new kit Textar a mandatory grinding procedure is required. For the first 200-300 kilometers, sharp braking and prolonged loads should be avoided. This will allow the friction material to be evenly distributed over the surface of the disc and form a working layer.
- 🚫 Dirt: Sand or dirt getting between the pad and the disc will cause deep scratches.
- 🔥 Overheat: Holding the pedal down for a long time without using the engine leads to glazing of the surface.
- 🔧 Tool: Pressing the piston without a special tool can damage its mechanism (especially on cars with an electronic handbrake).
Compliance with installation technology extends the life not only of the pads, but also of the entire brake system as a whole. Don't skimp on little things like new boots or guides if the old ones have play or damage.
High-quality preparation of seats and lubrication of contacts is 50% of the success of silent brake operation, regardless of the brand of pads.
Can Textar pads be mixed with discs from another brand?
Yes, this is acceptable. Brake discs and pads from different manufacturers are usually compatible if they are selected from the catalog for the same car model. The main thing is that the geometric dimensions and material of the disc correspond to the characteristics of the pads.
Why did the whistle appear after the replacement?
Whistling can be caused by several reasons: lack of lapping, dirt, poor contact lubrication, or natural resonance of materials. Often the sound disappears on its own after 500 km.
How to distinguish an original Textar from a fake?
The original packaging has clear printing, a hologram and a QR code for verification. The pads themselves are laser marked, the edges are smooth, without chips, and the metal base is coated with high-quality heat-resistant paint.
Do brake discs and pads always need to be replaced?
Not always, but preferably. If there is deep wear or runout on the disc, replacing only the pads will accelerate their wear and worsen braking. New pads should run on a flat surface.