[me]

As an average driver who isn't really isn't into performance, here's a simple question from the mind of a newbie:
I'm at the point where I probably need to replace my brakes (pads at least). I'm at almost 50k and I'm pretty sure the back pads are really thin. I prefer to have my more mechanically-inclined friend help me on it rather than take it to the shop, but I was wondering how much is this going to cost me for parts? Is it generally recommended to do all four brakes at once? Should I stick with OEM parts? Do I need to have the rotors resurfaced? I feel very slight vibration when I hit the brakes now.
Any answers would be greatly appreciated.
Thanks.

 

[JonnyKuhns]

Re: GTI brakes (me)

Well... Always change them in sets. You may not need to do both front and rear, but it sounds like they are due. I just did the rears on my car about a week ago (very simple... ebrake cable is the hardest part). If you put new pads on, you will always either get new rotors or have yours turned. Don't put new pads on old rotors (non-turned) Costs for new pads and rotors from the dealer:
pads - 48.40
rotors - 92.52
I've heard you can actually do brakes from http://www.ecstuning.com
for cheaper than what the dealer parts are, and upgrade to a slotted rotor at the same time. Food for thought...
The dealer wanted about $300 in parts and labor to do my rears. I bought the parts without even thinking about upgrading and did it myself in a little less than 2 hours.


Modified by watsupdu at 2:27 AM 6-30-2003