KDAG

Hey yall!

I have a 98 es300 in amazing condition at `133k miles. The brakes seem to be squeaking at low speeds so i think its time to change both. Does anyone have any recommendations for the best and most reliable parts or brands?

Thank you,

Kamal

nsghtbrwry

Akebono ProACT Ceramics, some of the best pads you'll ever use. Good at everything: good braking, silent, long-lasting, very low dust.
Cheap Centric economy rotors. Yes, they're probably made using Chinese steel but I use them in cars driven by family members who put the brakes through hell (no engine braking downhill, in addition to overuse of brakes AKA no coasting), and they work great. Given how cheap quality rotors are it doesn't make sense to resurface for slightly less cost plus your time.

I also use the Powerstop ceramic kits. They're great all-round brakes as well, comes with ceramic pads, rotors, hardware, and a little packet of grease.

Can find all of these on RockAuto for decent prices, although shipping on rotors might be annoying (try the same part numbers on Amazon).

BDSL

Squeaking at low speeds doesn't mean pads and rotors are worn down. It might just need a cleaning and re-lube.

KDAG

Is this something i would be about to DIY? I do a lot of road trips in my car between Chicago and Toronto, don't want to risk anything for the highway!

WILLYumD

Jack the car up, jack stands under. Wheels off.

Loosen the caliper bolts, clean those up.
Take out the caliper slide pins--this may be very hard to do, be patient--clean these well, lube them up.
Take off the brake pads, clean up the side that contacts the CALIPER. Clean the caliper as well. Lube.
Clean and lube the pad clips, too.
If you're feeling wild, take off the brake rotor (may prove difficult due to rust, give it a few bangs with a rubber mallet). Clean this surface very well, use some anti-seize.

Oh, look, you've done all of the labor you'd do if you were to change out the pads and rotors.
It's pretty easy.
Jack, stands, sockets, ratchet, breaker bar, torque wrench, lube, wire brushes, rotors, pads, and NEW clips, are all you'll need.

Took me only 2 hours and I'm an absolute amateur.

Used Akebono ProACT and Centric Premium rotors (less than $200 in parts) and the car braked extremely well.