How long do your brake pads and rotors last?
 

My indy mentioned that they usually expect rotors to last about 50k miles. Is that what you guys have experienced? My previous vehicles (Hondas and Toyotas) have gone well over 100k before needing new brakes.

I bought my X5 with about 73k miles and now have about 92k miles. About 6 months ago, I started getting a brake shimmy that has gotten worse. So during my last oil change at 90k, I had my indy diagnose the shimmy. They replaced the lower control arm bushings and found that the rotors are warped. But I held off on the brake job so that I could save up for it.

The shimmy has been getting worse so I'm getting ready to go whole hog and have them install new pads and rotors, front and rear. Along with a brake fluid flush.

For what it's worth, my indy normally uses Zimmermann rotors and Textar pads. I think I might ask them to use some Akebono ceramics because I really want longer lasting brakes.

With your application you can use and find Cool Carbon pads. I would use OE, Brembo, Centric 125 Series High Carbon Brake Rotors, or Raybestos Advanced Technology rotor blanks (no cuts or holes please), This will give you a nice cold, warm or hot bite without the heavy dust as found in OE pads. The Raybestos and Centric 125 ones have the hub powered coated a nice satin black color that will last the life of the rotor. $63-$75 each from Rockauto. Front brakes are an easy DIY 3 hrs project.

Write up on the Cool Carbon pads Cool Carbon Brake Pads Installed! (Coupon Code Included)

SPECIAL NOTE
Cool Carbon is NOT available for 4.6 or 4.8is applications, We get the big V8 and you all get the better pads. According to the factory people, no demand equals no production applications.
I am running the Power Stop Z16 Evolution; Ceramic and I am happy with the results, especially the low dust and cold first bite. Hi speeds stops have a very predictable grab and will haul down our SAV beasts with no drama over and over again.

^:iagree: with Steven, Centric rotors (coated hubs and vanes) and Cool Carbon pads.

I emailed Dave Z not too long ago and he recommended Centric Posi-Quiet ceramic pads for a good all around, lower dusting pad. He told me flat out although he sells Hawk Ceramic pads that he does not recommend them.

Thanks guys. What do you find in terms of longevity on these setups?

Here's an E53 review of the Cool Carbon pads.....

http://www.xoutpost.com/bmw-sav-foru...rake-pads.html

Rotor wear issue is addressed in that thread.

25 to 50K depending on YOUR driving style and conditions. I have seen OE pads last 15K and some last 45K+

Heavy braking in stop and go traffic wears more pads than the difference in between better quality pads. The cheapo ones can last longer as they have no bite what so ever or can burn away in one afternoon of mountain charges.

Your life and family are worth a LOT, DON'T skimp on brake parts.:thumbup: Check the pads at every oil or tire check as it only takes a few mins with a flashlight.

Thanks again. I definitely won't cheap out on low end stuff as I agree that brakes are super important. Looking at $1300 OTD for brakes and rotors, front and rear, plus a brake fluid flush.

Wow! DIY will run about $400.

This was an epic write up on Cool Carbon, Thanks for posting it once again. Damn wish they made them for the larger engines. I have them on my M5 and they are GREAT!

DIY write up are in the How To's section posted about. Real simple hand tools only required.