Break Light Came on

[amentges]

Well over the weekend a odd symbol came upon my dash and after looking it up it seems its time to replace my break pads (at least). So I have done a lot of reading (board has a lot of good info) and believe I am going to go with the Axxis Deluxe pads and probably Centric rotors (zeckhausen.com). Should I just blindly replace the whole break system because my light came on? Or is there a way for me to find out what I need to replace (do dealerships offer free inspection)? Also I have read that production date of the X matters, my X is an 01 with a production date of 08/00 any insight would be helpful (think the sensors may be different). I have also read most of the DIY's and I really want to try it but, sine i've never done breaks before now may not be the time to start.

Thanks Andy