I've been reading all the most recent threads on brakes and the "Ultimate Brake Thread" or whatever that is called in the FAQ.

I have a question more on the need for changes rather than the type of equipment.

I have about 50K miles on my 2000 GLE. I pretty much just cruise - not much spirited driving. I have had my rotors turned onced due the warping TSB - however, it feels like some warping has returned.

My last 3 trips for oil changes or tire rotations I have been told my rear brake pads are more than 80% gone. I thought it odd that the rear brakes would wear out before the fronts (thought the fronts did more work?), but let's assume they are worn out.

So I figure I have 4 options:

1. Replace just rear pads
2. Replace rear pads and rotors
3. Replace all pads, no rotors
4. Replace all pads, all rotors.

I'm looking for opinions/ideas.

Also, let's assume I just do the pad thing for now to save money - should I have all the rotors turned again to correct warping, if indeed it has returned?

 

So I figure I have 4 options:

4. Replace all pads, all rotors.

I actually just got back from picking up my car...I did everythig pads and rotors...Sounds ok so far...If the rotors are real bad then there is bascially nothing you can do..Especially if you have had them turned once already...I figured just put out the money for now and hope it works out for awhile.../Good luck

 

Whenever you replace pads...you want to resurface the rotor. Otherwise pads dont seat correctly and can run into varied issues at this point. If you have had the fronts turned down, in theory you should have enough run out to turn them down 1 more time. It really depends on what the rotor specs out at.

If you cant turn down the rotors and have to replace the pads, it makes no sense not to replace the rotors at that time either.

Cheapie says replace on what needs to be fixed.
Right says replace/fix what needs to be done to do the job correctly.
**** retentive says replace it all. Period.

 

Do what you need to. They use a micrometer to tell you if you need a new rotor- dont just replace it unless it is badly warped or out of spec. If you sense wobble, it could be a slightly bent rim- on the maximas, they bend- all the new rotors aint gonna fix that. Also, you must machine the rotors with every brake job otherwise your pads will wear twice as fast- cheaper in reality to do it. Also, the backs do wear first- reason being onthe max, they are smaller and thinner then the fronts. Go figure. And yes you are correct Dr. normally and all things remaining equal, the fronts would wear sooner.

 

5.) BIG Brake Kit! No regrets....


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