If I'm not trying to go super cheap, but not pay an arm and a leg, what is the advantage of using OEM parts/equivalent parts versus after market parts?

I've had my rotors re-finished before, but at high speeds, when I hit my brakes lightly, my steering wheel will shake. I know it is because my rotors are slightly warped...while they don't have to be replaced for safety purposes, I'd rather replace them because I drive the hell out of my car.

Is there a reason to replace the back ones just because I'm replacing the front ones?

What should I expect to pay for front rotors/pads? Is this worth trying to install myself or should I take it to a mechanic?

2/24/2012 10:20:15 AM

Year/lake/model?
For the most part it is probably one of the easier things to do on a car, but in some cars it is more of a pain than others (ones that require special tools or ones that have the hubs and rotors integrated into one unit).
OEM stuff is just as good as factory unless you have a high performance/luxury car, where there is more of a distinction
You don't necessarily need to replace the rear ones just because your front ones are worn/warped, but you should take a rear wheel off and assess the condition of the pads/rotors

2/24/2012 11:17:14 AM

2004 Lexus IS300

2/24/2012 11:32:35 AM

http://www.ebay.com/itm/FRONT-KIT-PERFORMANCE-DRILLED-AND-SLOTTED-BRAKE-ROTORS-POWERSTOP-CERAMIC-PADS-/220960074504?pt=Motors_Car_Truck_Parts_Accessories&fits=Model%3AIS300&vxp=mtr&hash=item33723f2b08#ht_6469wt_1139

2/24/2012 11:43:05 AM

rear brakes typically last much longer than the fronts. As mentioned its good to inspect them but unless they are worn out there is no reason to replace them just because you are replacing the front brakes.

And don't get a set of crossdrilled/slotted rotors. You cannot resurface them.

2/24/2012 12:50:35 PM

Quote :

"And don't get a set of crossdrilled/slotted rotors. You cannot resurface them."

not only that but there's less surface contact with the pad which may increase stopping distances. unless you are road racing or just like the looks drilled/slotted rotors are a waste of money.

2/24/2012 4:04:56 PM

Yes

Looks are really the only reason to have those. I don't know anyone that tracks their car with anything other than blanks.

2/24/2012 4:05:48 PM