Ok, I just took my truck in for the oil change, etc. I was told I needed new brakes. I knew it was about time because my front rotors felt a little warped.

Dealer Quote: $250.00 for the oem pads and $260.00 for labor. Totalling $510.00

So, I went online and ordered my oem pads for $136.00. I called Pepboys and they quoted me $100.00 for installing the pads and resurfacing the rotors.
Totalling $236.00.

I'm not sure how competent the mechanics are at Pepboys. Is it worth the extra $160.00 to have the Dealer install the brakes? Do you think Pepboys can do a good job? If not, does anyone know of a reputable Brake shop in Los Angeles, CA? Thanks for any advice.

 

Pepboys will be fine pending they resurface the rotors correctly and install grease on the pins.

 

Pretty straight forward job. Most shops do good brake work. There is a certain amount of liability at stake, and some shops will sell more than you really need just to be sure, and to make the install easier.....

 

I've had good techs at dealers and private shops... and I've had bad techs at dealers and private shops...

Personally, if warranty isn't a concern, I'de go for the private shops...

 

I would do it myself.

 

i agree ,do it yourself. pick up a haynes manual and find a friend who has done brakes to give u a hand. usually a 6 pack is a good incentive

 

Thanks for the advice. The rotors were almost shot. The rear pads were almost to the metal. They were able to resurface the rotors, but only this one time. I will need to buy new ones the next time. I ended up paying $150 for the labor and resurfacing. It took 3 hours to resurface all 4 rotors. My truck feels brand new. So smoooooth. I seriously don't think my brakes were right when I bought the truck. They have squeeked ever since I bought the truck. Now, after having my brakes done, I have no squeeks even though I have the same rotors and brake pads. Go figure.
Hopefully it will last. Thanks.

 

Just a suggestion, next time go with a better pad than OEM. Wagner Thermo Quiets and Car Quest Blues are two good choices.

 

Next time I'm going to upgrade to Powerslot rotors with Hawk pads. From what i've read and been told, this would be a good upgrade. Thanks.

 

My dealer quoted me two hours ago $120 for new pads installed, $250 for new pads installed and turned rotors.

mikebaby

 

The dealer quote is probably for just the front or rear not both. I had all 4 done. I doubt $250 is for all 4 brakes.