Zimmermann

Zimmermann, the German brake specialist Otto Zimmermann, is best known for its brake discs (rotors). Its Coat Z finish is an anti-corrosion coating applied to the rotor: on the friction surface it wears away in the first few stops, but on the hat, the edges and inside the cooling vanes it stays, so the rotor does not start rusting the first time the car sits in the rain and the hub face stays clean where it matters for runout.

We stock a large range of Zimmermann coated rotors sold as pairs to cover one axle, such as the 310mm set 600.3215.20, along with side-specific singles where a rotor is handed, such as the 348mm front left 150.3478.20, and Zimmermann brake pad sets. Rotor pairs are heavy and ship by StarTrack; the delivery estimator on each product page shows the options for your postcode. Use the vehicle selector in the brake discs category to confirm fitment, and have brake work done or checked by a qualified mechanic.

Are Zimmermann brake discs good?

Yes. Zimmermann is a German brake specialist whose main business is brake discs (rotors). What separates a good rotor from a poor one is a consistent casting, accurate balance and thickness, low runout and a finish that does not rust, and those are the things a specialist concentrates on. Zimmermann's Coat Z anti-corrosion coating keeps the hat and edges clean in service. Brakes are safety-critical, so have the work done or checked by a qualified mechanic.

What is Zimmermann Coat Z?

Coat Z is Zimmermann's anti-corrosion coating, applied to the brake disc (rotor) so it can be fitted straight from the box without the oily preservative that uncoated rotors need cleaned off. The coating on the friction surface is worn away by the pads within the first few stops; on the hat, the outer edge and inside the cooling vanes it remains, keeping the rotor from rusting. It is a corrosion measure, not a performance claim.

Can I buy Zimmermann brakes in Australia?

Yes. CarParts.com.au stocks a large range of Zimmermann coated brake discs (rotors) and brake pad sets for European cars and dispatches Australia-wide from Melbourne. Rotor pairs are heavy, so they travel by StarTrack Standard or Express rather than Australia Post, and the delivery estimator on each product page shows the options for your postcode, with the exact cost confirmed at checkout. Use the vehicle selector to see only the Zimmermann parts with TecDoc-confirmed fitment for your car.

Why are some Zimmermann rotors sold singly and marked left or right?

Most brake discs (rotors) are the same on both sides of the car, so we sell them as a set of two covering one axle. Some designs are handed, usually because the internal cooling vanes are curved to pump air in one direction, and fitting one on the wrong side reduces cooling. Those rotors are sold as singles marked LH or RH, and you order one of each for the axle. The product name states the side.

How do I know when a brake disc is worn out and needs replacing?

Every brake disc (rotor) has a minimum thickness cast or stamped into the hat, and once the friction surface has worn to that figure the rotor must be replaced, because a thin rotor overheats and can crack. Other signs are a pronounced lip at the outer edge, deep scoring, heat spots, or a judder through the pedal and steering wheel under braking. Rotors are replaced in pairs and normally with new pads; a mechanic can measure thickness accurately.