I got 86,000 miles on my 98 and the rear brake pads havent been changed yet. I'd like to do'em but I remember somebody sayin the rotors gotta be resurfaced. Opinions appreciated.

 

Carefully visually inspect the rotors. If they are warped at all (you probably would already have noticed the effect of this when braking - a slight vibration or lurching sensation ) or scored, you should have them turned (re-surfaced). You can take them to a Trak Auto or Pep Boys and they will turn them for you for a lot less than if you take it ti a brake place.

 

I'm no expert...but...Its good practice to resurface the rotor when you change the pads. If your brake "feel" is smooth and free of vibration then just change out the pads.

 

- You really, really, really, should resurface the rotors anytime that you change the pads. Even a measly week's worth of driving can leave scratches or pits in the rotors. You may not feel a vibration in the pedal/car when braking, but the irregularities are there.
- Pay the extra money and get them resurfaced. You'll brake better and you can potentially save money in the long run.
- If it makes you feel any better, my dealership refuses to even put new pads on if they can't resurface the rotors. I'm not sure if its law or just a very good policy.

 

Take it from me, I changed my front pads about a month ago, and being the lazy dumbass with no time that I am, I didn't resurface them till this day. The rotors were fairly uneven, nothing serious, but I put in the new pads and drove around like this....

It's reccomended to resurface the rotors because if you don't some things can happen:
- Rotors crack
- Premature brake pad wear
- Noisy/squeaky braking
- Uneven braking

Right now, my car squeaks when I let the brake pedal go once the light turns green or some scenario like that..

Most places should charge no more then 10$ per rotor anyways. I'm stupid for not doing it.

 

They are fairly cheap to turn, so I would turn them. Trak Auto or Autozone charge around $5-$10 for each rotor. It will help to pads seat better even if the rotors are not warped.

 

Yes, you should always resurface the rotors. Once I did not on my 4th gen due to laziness, and the need for the extra cash and it cost me new pads and rotors 13,000 miles later.