I need to replace my brake pads soon....I think. I've asked a couple people I know and they all agree that it's the brake pads because when i press my brake, it feels like there's almost nothing left. I was wondering if anyone has any suggestions on a good set that would last a long time while still being good quality. I also have no clue as to how much replacing them would cost. Is it something that you can do yourself, or should it get done by a professional. Any help is appreciated! Thanks

 

soooo,,,, what yr and model? u can get kits from summit or jegs that have the rotors and pads or u can just get pads. unless there is something really wrong they are pretty easy. not much more than changing the tires. first look at the pads to see if in fact they are worn. (worn if the metal on the pads is getting close to the rotor 1/8th in or in that area), then look over the area surrounding the brakes and calipers for signs of oil leakage, if u see brake fluid then the caliper or brake line is failing. it may be that the pads are not worn and all is fine except the brake master cylinder. are u getting any abs light or brake light on. (no not when the ebrake is on)

 

its a 97 3.8 v6, no fluid leaks at all, if the pads are wearing out, is that the only thing to replace or do you generally replace other parts close by? by the way, i dont get any warning lights either.

 

it sounds like u should need only pads, other parts depend on what they look like. could use ceramic pads. work good and dont dirty up the wheels so bad but are spendy. if the rotors look good, no cracks or large edge on the outside then it should be just pads. theres lots of parts there u could replace if u want. slotted and drilled rotors come to mind.

 

having your brake pedal does not necessarily mean its your pads. You could have a fluid leak some where, a falty master cylinder, or air in your brake fluid. Brake fluid is hydrscopic which means it absobs moisture, and old discolored brake fluid can give your pedal a spongy feeling. You should be able to tell if its the brake pads by looking at them. If that is the case you will prolly wanna replace the rotors too. Just because the rotor is not cracked or appear to be damaged does not mean they are good. You need to check the lateral runout in the rotors.

 

thanks for all the info. since i'm not to confident about what to replace, i think ill take it to my friends shop to figure out what should get replaced, then go from there!