Which pads should be changed first?

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Mar 17, 2003 | 10:30 AM

olegmalkin

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From: Texas

Which pads should be changed first?

I cannot figure out whether it is my front or rear brake pads that are making noises? I know typically front pads should be replaced first, but since our cars are rear wheel drive should I replace the rears first?

Mar 17, 2003 | 10:36 AM

kylesc400

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From: Virginia

it doesnt really matter. the front brakes do most of the stopping, as they are larger than the brakes in the rear. i just replaced my front brake pads without touching my rears and its fine.

Mar 17, 2003 | 10:46 AM

asnatlas

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From: Ohio

Hello, olegmalkin......... Even tho our cars are rear wheel drive most of the breaking is done with the front wheels / pads..... So more then likely it is the front that are making the noise.... Also if they are making a noise you will want to have them replaced soon so you do not have to have your rotors replaced, which can rack up some cash if that is needed to be done... Also a little tip you could do is (depending on the rims you have) if you can get to you pads with ease you could place your fingers between the pads and the rotors, If you can place your fingers in there when the pads have a lot left on them, if you can't place your fingers in between the pads and the rotor then those are set you would want to have replaced because they don't have a lot of pad left and that is why they are making the noise.........

Question: When was the last time you had your pads replaced and when you did have them replaced did you have both sets or just front or rear?

Please DON'T QUOTE me I am only posting what I have read / been told.... For I am not a expert and if I am wrong please let me know............. I am only trying to provide help

Mar 17, 2003 | 10:46 AM

boredguy77

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From: Texas

don`t determine whether your brakes need to be changed based on noise, rather pad thickness. pull out your pads and if they are below about 1/4" (guesstimate) I would replace them. some replacement pads will squeel when they are new.

Mar 17, 2003 | 10:48 AM

asnatlas

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LOL

EDIT: Profanity - READ THE RULES

Last edited by pcmw; Mar 17, 2003 at 09:59 PM.

Mar 17, 2003 | 10:58 AM

olegmalkin

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From: Texas

So, which ones do you think I should get? Stock Lexus are the best? ANyone had any luck with NIppon, PBR? Rockauto has a lot of cheap brands, are any of them desent?

Mar 17, 2003 | 04:26 PM

lex400sc

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From: bat country

Lexus brake pads need to be replaced when there is about 2mm pad left, according to a Lexus parts stocker I overheard while buying parts at the dealership. If you haven't replaced any brake pads yet, then it's your front brakes that need replacement. If you replaced your fronts last, then it's *probably* your rears, unless you are one of those last-minute brakers or enjoy frequent brake-stand burnouts. I like Lexus OEM pads, but I hear EBC Greens are leagues better than them. The best test is just to pull a wheel off and examine the brake pads visually. By proccess of elimination, you should be certain where the squeaks come from.

BTW, sometimes the squeaking comes from old *** shims depleted of lithium grease or rust. I replaced all four pads a while back and still heard squealing until I bought two new shim kits and soaked my brakes in brakeleen. Problem solved.