Quote:
Originally Posted by Hemi-Cuda
for brakes it doesn't really matter what kind of car you drive, you don't want the original factory parts. you can go to any automotive place and get high performance brake pads guaranteed for life for probably half of what you'll pay at a dealer for generic pads
|
This is not necessarily accurate. Factory parts in many cases are the best parts for your car, including the brake pads (and other brake parts). This is not true on every car, but it can be. Dealer parts are not "generic" at all, and are often from the same supplier as the aftermarket parts you buy, but are made to OE specs. Sumitomo, Akebono etc. are an OEM supplier but also make aftermarket parts. I have first hand experience in many cases where the original brake parts were indeed the best combination of durability, stopping power, quietness.
They key is not to pay retail dealer prices, some parts outlets sell OE parts at a substantial discount, or will have the equivalent part. I also see a lot of people buying "performance" brake pads which end up being much harsher on the rotors and end up costing more in the long run.