I need to replace my brakes (made high pitched noise, but that's gone too now) and I was wondering which ones were good to get. I'm a pretty aggressive driver, but don't race. I'm looking for ones with a good balance between braking power and low dust. If anyone could suggest a brand and where to get them, I'd appreciate it. I'm in SoCal so any place you can suggest around here or on the internet would be helpful.

Also, this is my first time doing a brake pad replacement. Any suggestions and things to look out for? I don't want to end up killing myself because I didn't do it right. I saw a few online instructions, but if you've seen a good one, please let me know. Thanks.

 

I would recommend Hawk HP Performance pads. They are around 70 for each front and rear I think. You can get them at alot of places like PepBoys, probably other auto stores, online, etc. Check the stickies for good info on changing pads its easy. One piece of advice the piston in the caliper on the front you can use a c-clamp with to get it in, and the rear you twist it back in with like some needle nose plyers or you can get a special screw to turn it.

 

If you never made a brake job before, be shure to have someone experienced who can show you how to do it properly, you know the rest. As for the bads I've used Axxis Metal Master, I think they where quite good, much better than the Wagner ceramic pads that I have now, which are ok but nothing like Axxis.

 

Hawk HP good brakes.... not a big difference in stoping.....though.......

 

Do I need to purchase the brake hardware kit? I know the manual suggests it, but was wondering if it was really necessary to get. I'm at 90K miles right now.

 

i dont think you need to

 

You don't seem too positive. Do you, or anyone else here, change the hardware when changing the pads?

 

ive never changed brake pads but i believe its mainly bolts and replacing brake fluid with basic tools

 

All you need to change your breaks are the pads. Are you referring to a tool hardware kit?

 

Does anyone know what I'm talking about? Brake hardware kit (Part #410802Y027 & #440804U025)... Can anyone that knows what I'm talking about jump in?

 

i got the hardware kit because my friend stripped one of the bolts... it not expensive and i would only get it if you need it.. like stripping a bolt. what i would do is goto an autoparts store.. get the kit. use it if you need to, if you do not end up needing it, return it. it is better to have it there than having your jacked up with unassembled brakes and all the autoparts stores are closed and you cannot get that bolt (trust me).