i think all i need to do is get new pads. they are not squeaking and i dont have to push that hard on them as you do for really bad brakes. its just a reccomendation from teh auto shop. What are some bad signs to watch out for. i know i will get them changed soon so that all i will have to do is change the pads nothing more, but i think i have some time before i do that. i mean if i have to push really hard than definatly ill get them changed out sooner. what does happen when you wait too long though? the metal rubs on each other or what?

 

When the pads wear out, it is a metal to metal grind. You will destroy your rotors extremely fast and you'll get a crazy squeak. One suggestion though, when you change your pads, its a good idea to change your rotors too.

 

when do you usually change the rotors? i mean what if i just changed the pads? how bad does it have to be to change teh rotors?

 

Rotor are supposed to measured for proper thickness. If you don't have a micrometer, you can't tell. If you change the pads, you must either change the rotors (if they are too thin), or resurface the rotors (if there is plenty of thickness left). The manufactuerer says the only way to properly resurface rotors is to have the rotors "turned" while on the car (eliminates any hub/rotor variations). You can also just take them off & bring them to a good shop (one that won't try to **** you over) to have them turned. They will even meausre the rotor thickness for you.

Always replace the pad shims, and pad retainers/sliders/springs when you do a brake job. If you don't, you will end up chasing noise problems around later. Lube all the sliding surfaces between the pads & retainers. Clean and lube all the claiper sliding pins. use a little bit of anti-squeel goo on the backs of the pads & shims (glues the backs to the caliper & piston). Then your good to go.

Don't just swap pads and walk away, this can be very dangerous.