I have 04 automatic RX8 with grand touring package. Its time to change all of my breaks and I got the following quotes from my dealer:

rear pads (1/32 tread left): $80.00 for pads and $28.00 for hardware. $100.00 for labor.

front pads (3/32 tread left): $100.00 for pads and $50.00 for hardware. $80.00 for labor.

Are these fair price for the pads? What are these hardwares anyways? Anyone have suggestions for where I can find better deal for pads?

I'd really like to get the original pads that they had installed from the factory (don't really need the high quality track pads). Which ones are comparable?

Thanks for your help, guys.

 

i would say get ceramic pads from online theyre a little more but change em yourself so you get better pads and still end up paying less than the dealer wants ... the DIY section has info on changing pads ... its pretty easy depending in your skill level

 

Hawk Ceramic pads are a good quality aftermarket set of pads. I use them and they make alot less dust and are much quieter than the stock set.

I highly recommend them to anyone

 

I have never done it before, but I could give it a try. Only concern I have is, how do I figure out if I need to turn my rotors or not? And, if I do need to, then don't I need to take it to dealer anyways?

 

is the car vibrating under braking? also if you take the rotors off yourself any auto shop will turn em for CHEAP i got em done for 25 a pair

 

^yep, most shops have the equipment to do that if its necessary.

the work itself is so easy that you should be able to do it no problem.

 

sounds like I should (must) give it a try myself
What is the hardware that the dealer was trying to sell me with the pads?


No, there is no vibration when I brake. It just feels as if I have to press the brakes harder than I used to have to.

 

You probably have to press harder cause the brake pads are worn down

I'm not sure what they mean by "hardware" though, maybe the clips to hold on the pads? i dunno, seems like some random "*** rape the customer charge" if you ask me

 

Where are you located? There might be someone in your area that could help you in exchange for a nice cold beverage (or 6-12). +1 on Hawk ceramic pads, no noise, good performance and low dust. BHR (charles hill) has great prices.

 

BMR, eh?

 

typo fixed, thanks.

 

if theres no vibration you prolly dont need turning ... and +1 for the hawk i currently have ebc red stuff coz i came across a deal i couldnt refuse but have used the hps ... the dealer prolly is talking about the clips and new screws to hold the rotor in (i got rid of mine) as they tend to strip

 

I will try to replace it this myself as soon as I get the parts ordered.
As for the hardware, I checked the pads on http://www.finishlineperformance.com and they sell their pads with the "hardware" for RX8 as well. They didn't show any pics or description as to what the hardware means.

 

Racing Brake Sport (curved vane slotted) rotors and Hawk Ceramic pads - DIY. Excellent braking manners, low dust, and near silent. Brice at FluidMotorSports has everything you need.

 

Fluidmotorsports seem to have best pricing I have seen so far. Thanks.
The website doesn't give me an option to choose wheel size. Are they all meant for 18" wheels?

What is the difference between HPS and ceramic? According to the pads descriptions on fluidmotorsports, hps seems to have better stopping power (20-40%). But, all of you guys are suggesting ceramic. Any specific reason why ceramic is better than HPS?

 

the hps is the brand name for hawks ceramic pads

 

Yes, 18" wheels, unless otherwise stated.

Hawk High Performance Street (HPS) are Not the same as Hawk Performance Ceramic. The HPS do have slightly better stopping power, but the Ceramic have low dust and near silent operation. The priority of choice is yours.

There are even higher performance track pads, but at the expense of longevity. All life is compromise.

 

"Hawk Performance Ceramic" it is then....thanks guys.

 

Didn't we just discuss this?

https://www.rx8club.com/series-i-wheels-tires-brakes-suspension-55/oem-pads-vs-hawk-179757/

For my money, the OEMs are quite nice as a normal street pad.

 

Make sure to ge Hawks street pads. Ceramic pads are for track.

 

More disinformation!

 

The OEM pads are very good as far as their primary function of braking. However, noticeable brake dust and squeal, hence my going to the Hark Ceramics and I've been very pleased with them.

The OEM rotors are also very good, but I like the looks of the Racing Brake rotors and they should dissipate braking heat more quickly to reduce fade.

 

Might oughta read the Sticky Brake FAQ above https://www.rx8club.com/series-i-wheels-tires-brakes-suspension-55/brake-faq-167264/ .

 

Finally ordered the Hawk ceramic pads from fluidsports...will try to install as soon as I get the pads.

I noticed a lot of rust in the pads area this morning...will I need to replace anything else also?

 

Nope. Just wire brush a little and use some brake solvent to tidy things up before your new pad install.

Don't forget the copper grease anywhere the pads contact the caliper pistons and runners (but not on the rotor contact surfaces).

And also poperly bed in (burnish) your new pads.