I'm getting ready to replace my brake pads...I know it's recommended that the rotors be resurfaced prior to putting the new pads on, but I'm wondering if that is necessary? If I go without, how do I keep the pads from squealing?

 

Some places just love to tell you to have the rotors turned-more money for them. If they are not warped, grooved, or otherwise damaged, they are probably fine. A light scuffing with a very fine emery paper will remove glazing, if there is any. Most vehicles don't need the turning that gets pushed. Ask the shop to show you, and explain why they are saying it should be done. A small raised rim around the outer circumfrence of the disc is normal wear and does not need to be removed by turning the rotors.

 

Every rotor I have ever had turned warped after a few heat cycles. Then after spending the money to have them turned, a week later I have to turn around and buy new rotors because the steering wheel shakes so bad when I apply the brakes. If it were mine, and the rotors look fine, I'd buy lifetime pads and put them on it. If the rotors are grooved, I would put a new set on. In my experience, the cost of a new rotor isn't much more than having one turned.

 

Wagner Thermo Quiet pads. If you don't have the extra cash for new rotors you should at least take some sand paper and scuff them up, then clean with some brake cleaner. Ensure you clean and lube the caliper pins with brake specific grease.

 

I agree. A dealer turned mine under warranty in FL. They were good for a couple months. Now they're worse than ever. Even though I'm still under warranty, no dealer here in NY will touch it. They even stated, "turning them just makes them prone to warp even more since they are thinner." This truck has had awful brakes since 10k miles with no help from Ford.