How long and how much to have the break pads changed on my 2004 mini-van?

Question

I am thinking about going to Midas..but I really can't afford to go without a transportation during the week so..maybe trying to get them fixed on Saturday.. I wonder if they are open and how fast they can work on them..and how much should I expect..

I don't know if going to the dealership is better or not..I am afraid they might take longer and cost more.

Thanks!!

Answer 1

Is there a Geralds near you. they do a great job and take good care of your car. Reasonable too.

Answer 2

Extent the cost on any brake system depends in parts needed to complete the job. Since your Mini is relatively new you may slide out with brake pads only. If your van has brake shoes and drums in the rear it's doubtful if they'll need to be changed especially if you have 50,000 miles or less in the vehicle. If you've gone over 50,000 miles and both front and rear have never been changed you may be in for new rotors in the front, particularly if you have semi-metallic pads on the vehicle.

You didn't include the brand of car you had as we could zero in much closer as far as costs. What really busts me about quick change brake shops is they try to talk you into rotors right off the bat. Some don't have brake lathes to attempt to save them. Another thing, be aware they'll slam ($) the tar out of you for new rotors that come from China or Taiwan. Any auto parts store has these bottom of the barrel parts for $25. - $35.00 each. The fast slick brake shops will ding you for nearly $100.00 each.

Pads and or shoes will be in addition to the rotors. $50.00 for shoes installed and depending on quality $75.00 per axle (front or rear).

Any independent mechanic or new car dealer uses better quality parts. In any event all work could be easily done while you're at work.

Answer 3

go to midas or some other place not the dealer they will rake you over the coals it should cost around $60.00 per axle and can be done in about an hour I do brakes all the time there pretty simple if you do have a friend that can work on it watch him you can learn to do it your self he /or she does one side then you do the other only do one side at a time though so you can have the otherside to copy from should you happen to forget that's how I learned

Answer 4

Go to Mavis. I believe its under fiftty dollars. Or if you dont have a Mavis, go somewhere where they specailize in brakes cuz its cheaper that way.

Answer 5

do it yerself. its really easy. find a dude with tools and give him a 6 pack to do it for you.