I'll be getting new pads within the next few months. Pretty much decided on either OEM or Akebono. Have not decided on rotors. Would like something comparable to OEM ... maybe OEM? ... what other good quality options are there that give good value and which have good reputations? What's the deal with coated rotors? Why use them, what kind of coatings are there? What's the downside? Thanks!

 

What brand of pads do you have now?

If Toyota brand then suggest sticking to this. These pads are less prone to squeal and the shims and other hardware will fit.

If not Toyota then either brand you listed is good. Make sure you get the shims and retaining hardware of the same brand pad. The pad listing would state "with hardware."

For rotors I like Brembo.

Toyota Brand is of course top notch but more expensive.

Check out the selection at Rockauto.com in the Daily Driver section. Any rotor in the Daily Driver section should be OK.

The coatings are there to prevent rust on the surfaces.that the pads don't contact. No downside to coating but the rotor might cost more. Some owners paint the rotor with high temperature paint.

 

I don't know the brand of pads that are on the car currently. The vehicle was purchased used about 18-months ago and I know it had at least one brake job about 40,000 miles back.

Why do you recommend Brembo?

 

What is the condition of the rotors? If OK one can just replace the pads.

Having had brake issues such as noise in the past I stick to Brembo rotors and Toyota pads. Brembo is my cheaper option for Toyota rotors. Of course Toyota doesn't make pads or rotors but specs them out to vendors to make.

Brembo has always been top notch and the same for Toyota pads. Here I pay more for Toyota pads as they never have issues.

As stated before there are other brands that will perform as well I just don't use them for Toyota. I do understand these other brands have a great reputation and good buyer feedback.

If doing a brake job on another make of car I will try to find out who made their pads and rotors and buy these or buy pads from car makers dealer. This has saved me brake problem headaches.

Akebano should be top notch. They even make brake parts for the Toyota factory cars. Sumitomo and Advics are supposed to be brake part makers for Toyota factory. There may be others also.

 

I've had the rotors resurfaced once since owning the car. I do not know what went before. I want to replace the rotors so I know everything is new and fresh.

At this juncture, I'm leaning towards OEM or Advics, but leaning is by no means a decision.

Thanks for the info and your help.

 

If resurfaced need to check the thickness of the rotor face as there is a limit as to how thin it can be.

 

I understand. I thought I might do that but then decided to just replace 'em and be done with it. It might be a little excessive, but it'll raise my comfort level as I'm planning a few long trips to the midwest and perhaps the east coast. Just as soon not concern myself with the brakes if it can be avoided. Thanks!