Where Do You Go For A Brake Job?

[mrbigstuff]

The last time I did brakes (in my driveway), the pads were more expensive than the rotors. Smelling a rat, I asked why and was told, "that's the way it is now." Further questioning revealed that everyone seems to be using the China-made rotors. Now, Chinese goods have improved leaps and bounds in the last decade, but for some reason their foundry stuff is still lousy to my mind. It's not necessarily the material but the workmanship, the attention to detail when it comes to these parts.

Long story: I ordered the Brembo rotors from Germany and paid about $85 for the pair, mail order. I paid about $45 for the pads.

I would be willing to bet you will not get the Brembo rotors and good pads at most repair shops unless you specify them.

[macphanatic]

I usually do my own. However, I know that the local the Tires Plus was using the best grade Raybestos rotors and pads for the longest time. The manager liked the quality and thought they were much better than any of the other non-performance products.

[Jack D.]

>Long story: I ordered the Brembo rotors from Germany and paid about $85 for the pair, mail order. I paid about $45 for the pads.

I went through two sets of Chinese CRAP rotors and finally just bought the Brembos. Best money I ever spent and not really that expensive when you figure in the agita cost with the pulsing of the warped Chinese rotors and not knowing if you'll really stop.

[Bo]

Seacrest wrote:
Same place I go for rim jobs...

:yum:

[testcase]

I have two local mechanics that I trust. Either will competently do the work necessary without trying to have me pay their rent for the rest of the year (by padding the bill with unneeded repairs). If you don't know of a reputable local mechanic, start asking people for recommendations. Ask enough people and one or two names will be repeated often. On your first visit, let him (or her ) know who referred you and, that you're looking for a mechanic you can trust over the long haul. Ideally, the first job should be for something not too major (ie: OEM recommended maintenance interval. Have the new guy do what the manual recommends and, see if the shop tries to soak you with unnecessary extras that a dealer would add). Sometimes, extra work will be warranted but, an honest mechanic will be able to fully explain why said extra work should be done. Once you've found such a gem, stick with him (them). The reason for having a second shop on your "short list" is that you may need work done when your primary guy is swamped.