The Friction Materials Standards Institute (FMSI), which maintains the standardized part numbering system for aftermarket brake pads anndounced a new identification number for OE brake pads.

FMSI’s latest addition is its “Z” number identification, which now shows everyone where OE brake pads have been specified to have mechanical attachment of the friction to the steel backing plate.

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“Remember, if you want your brake pads to perform OE like, this is a critical feature that shouldn’t be ignored,” said Mike Sucharda, executive director of Safe Braking.

FMSI is now in year four of a five-year modernization plan, according to the company.

"We heavily invested in new state of the art technology, directed by an active board combined with new staffing, established a very modern ITAF style operating system," said Frank Oliveto, president of FMSI. "We collaborated in developing new data partner agreements bringing more services and information to our members quicker, better, faster and far more accurate."