I used the O'reilly Import Direct on the rear disc pads last weekend. Haven't really driven enough to tell, but the fit was great. They also had a weird fabric-like backing on the pads that I've never seen before. The clips were also textured the same way. Not sure if it is supposed to help with...
They look real nice, except for the manifold face - I would agree with your mechanic on that.
Would be interested to see how soon before they start to rust. I need to do my passenger side on the 05 V6 since its cracked, not looking forward to it.
