OEM Brakes and Rotors

[isarkisov]

Hey guys,

I take my 2009 BMW X5 to independent shop, and the owner always insists on using genuine BMW brake pads and rotors. On top of that he always pressures me into getting new rotors. I have couple of questions and wanted to see what you all have to say about this:

- Do I have to change rotors every time I change pads, or is it ok to change rotors every other time? Last time I had my rear pads replaced and didn't change rotors, and brakes seem to work just fine.

- Is it true that only genuine BMW brakes will have perfect fit, and everything else just won't work as well. If that's not true, what's a good alternative to genuine BMW brakes?

Thanks!