I have been quoted $890 and $690 for new pads and rotors all around on my 2000 V

1. 60

   KKalmesposted 13 years ago

   I have been quoted $890 and $690 for new pads and rotors all around on my 2000 Volvo S40, too much?
   
   Has anyone had good experiences with the Midas, Pep Boys, retail/service tire shops?
   
   The dealerships are outrageous...

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2. 61

   kmartelposted 13 years ago

   Depending who you are getting the quotes from, dealership, 'round the corner garage, I would get as many quotes as I could, try to stay away from the dealerships, doesn't mean they use 1st. quality parts, they may charge you extra for the 2nd. quality and you think you are getting 1st.  I would try to find a reputable garage that repairs Volvos and get a quote from them.  You can go with 2nd quality parts.  The other service companies (Midas, etc)can be pricey too.  Or, if you know someone (friend, family member) who is a good mechanic and used to dealing with brakes on this type of car, have them do it for you, they usually go the auto part shops and can get you good quality parts at a much lower price and you pay the beer and time!  But, do get several estimates.  I have worked in the car business (Honda) for several years, and recently, I had to get my brake caliper on the front passenger side changed (piston was sticking)..I called my contact at Honda and he told me, go to the auto parts and get a reconditioned one, $100 + tax instead of paying almost $300 for a new one!  I went to the parts shop, got it , had my spouse change it (he is a certified mechanic) and it works beautifuly!!

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3. 64

   PhoenixVposted 13 years ago

   Having good brakes is an absolute necessity and your safety is worth every penny .
   
   However one little tip in the "brake repair" industry . Rotors are expensive to be replaced new or turned and some cases of gouging of customers on rotor repair has been known to happen. 
   
   690 from a reputable specialist for pads all the way around and rotors isnt bad, if indeed the rotors are worn down beyond legally enforced specs

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4. 53

   Discovery2posted 13 years ago

   No, not if they are using quality parts.  On higher end vehicles, it makes sense to use higher end pads and rotors.  I know for Land Rovers high end pads and rotors are critical, and the parts themselves cost WHOLESALE more than the quicky brake places cost total, parts and labor.  You get what you pay for.  Cheap pads are not worth it.

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5. 76

   Emissionguyposted 13 years ago

   The big problem with brake service is you really don't know what your paying for.
   
   Volvo cars have issues with noisy brakes. Original equipment Volvo brake pads and rotors are the best parts to get to insure you are getting the most for your money.
   
   Auto parts suppliers now furnish as many as 6 different quality grades of brake parts to mechanics. So I can buy the good brakes, the horrible brakes and four graduated choices in between.
   
   The potential for bait and switch sales tactics are rampant in the car repair industry.
   
   You are paying for the "good brakes" but in order to increase profit the mechanic buys the horrible brakes.
   
   I can actually buy the horrible front brake pads and two rotors for this car for 71 dollars total. You have no way of knowing what is actually going on your car.
   
   If you want to save money go to the Volvo dealer and pick up the parts yourself, then find an independent mechanic to install them. This way you will be assured of quality parts without paying dealer inflated labor rates.

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