changing rotors -- but not pads - ok?

[mace4runner]

I recently bought a 2003 limited -- and the previous owner had all the maintenance records.

It looks as though she had the front brakes done recently -- changed the pads - but just had her rotors "turned" or "machined" - or did something to the rotors -- but didnt replace them.


When getting an oil change the other day I had the guy check out the front brakes. He said the pads were fine - had a ton of life left in them - but I should replace the rotors.


I always thought you needed to replace the pads at the same time as the rotors -- but he is saying you don't.

Thoughts? Advice?

While on the subject - any recommendations for front rotors?

I have googled some threads here - and come up with a couple options.

1. Toyota original parts (best play to buy?)

2. Centric Parts - Seen some decent reviews on here about these?

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B000BZXR0Y...UTF8&colid=4RCVKQG5FMFR&coliid=I2OAUJSZVJRVWU

3. Autospecialty - Get the whole kit for cheap? Is it crap?

Amazon.com: Autospecialty KOE2421 1-Click OE Replacement Brake Kit: Automotive



Thanks in advance for any help!

 

[NuclearN8]

Brian,

it's common practice to turn the rotors (to get a fresh surface) vice buying new onces when doing pads. It's generally cheaper and an easy money maker for most shops so I wouldn't sweat it if it passed inspection you should be fine. (unless the brakes don't feel right to you)

any automotive store have worthy replacements wagner, wearever etc...
the cheapest place to buy oem rotors I've found is

2005 Toyota 4Runner Parts - Conicelli Parts Center

also if you want bluetooth but don't want to spend a lot of coin on a new headunit (saw on of your other threads you could do this)
Toyota Scion Lexus 98-11 Bluetooth Hands Free Car Adapter Kit

Lastly, let's see this beast! Congrats on finding one local
nate

 

[Handgunner480]

If you're doing the rotors you might as well slap some Hawk LTS Pads on there as well. Forget about the OE garbage. The factory brakes on these things are garbage.

 

[NuclearN8]

If you're doing the rotors you might as well slap some Hawk LTS Pads on there as well. Forget about the OE garbage. The factory brakes on these things are garbage.

wo wo wo. Anything that typically lasts 60, 80, 100,000+ miles before it needs to be replaced I wouldn't classify as "garbage".
I think you're being a little overly critical of oem or equivalent replacement components. Hawk does make some nice stuff I agree.

 

[mace4runner]

Thanks for the info and links Nate --

not sure if these pictures will work -- but if they dont ----- just close your eyes and picture a white 2003 100% stock limited 4runner.

I plan on doing the brakes this weekend -

 

[MikeInNH]

The only problem with the brakes on these vehicles is the calipers.

When ever you replace the rotors you should replace the pads. The pads may wear faster and uneven if you don't.

OEM pads are fine...Hawk, or Wagner are as good or better and about 1/3 the price.

 

[mace4runner]

Mike - where in NH are you? I bought this from a lady in HUDSON - about a week ago.

Yea - I am going to just do the rotors AND pads at once - not a ton of money up front -- and to have some piece of mind and not having to worry about it for a few years seems worth it.

 

[nevada]

I recently bought a 2003 limited -- and the previous owner had all the maintenance records.

It looks as though she had the front brakes done recently -- changed the pads - but just had her rotors "turned" or "machined" - or did something to the rotors -- but didnt replace them.


When getting an oil change the other day I had the guy check out the front brakes. He said the pads were fine - had a ton of life left in them - but I should replace the rotors.


I always thought you needed to replace the pads at the same time as the rotors -- but he is saying you don't.

Thoughts? Advice?

While on the subject - any recommendations for front rotors?

I have googled some threads here - and come up with a couple options.

1. Toyota original parts (best play to buy?)

2. Centric Parts - Seen some decent reviews on here about these?

http://www.amazon.com/dp/B000BZXR0Y...UTF8&colid=4RCVKQG5FMFR&coliid=I2OAUJSZVJRVWU

3. Autospecialty - Get the whole kit for cheap? Is it crap?

Amazon.com: Autospecialty KOE2421 1-Click OE Replacement Brake Kit: Automotive



Thanks in advance for any help!

are the rotors too thin? why would he say they need replaced?

but yes, if changing the rotors, you will want to swap the pads too. they have worn in together, but a new rotor will be flat and true, and NOT the same surface as the pads. you may never notice an issue due to this. or you may have squeaks, pulls, pulsation, or just poor braking.

its just not worth doing it halfass.

 

[MikeInNH]

Mike - where in NH are you? I bought this from a lady in HUDSON - about a week ago.

Hamstead - Other side of Salem from Hudson.

 

[Bossman]

Just had some brake service done on my 03 while it was in for its annual oil/filter change.

The rear pads and rotors needed to be replaced, so I went with the Wagner Perfect Stops.

Perfect Stop by Wagner

My front brakes were starting to feel like they were a little stuck and sure enough the caliper pins were rusted and need a slider service. I'd recommend planning on an annual brake service/inspection - especially for the calipers we have on our 4Runners.