r/cars•
eyecite

Good-value brands on struts, brake pads/rotors/shoes?

Thinking about ordering some struts and brake things from a site like rockauto... Any brands I should avoid? Any brands that offer considerable value?

Also might grab a hub/bearing.

7th gen corolla, if it matters. Thanks guys.

Posted May 17, 2011, 4:30 PM UTC

811
dukenukem2006 Subaru Impreza STI•

NAPA/ Autozone branded stuff is decent enough if your car won't be seeing any racing action.

3
eyeciteOP•

thanks!

1
gobiasomecoffee•
  • Rotors: Brembo blanks
  • Pads: Hawk HPS
  • Struts & Springs: Stick with Toyota OEM if you're not looking for a performance upgrade. Bilstein if you are.
3
eyeciteOP•

alrighty. thanks, ill check it all out.

1
RugerRedhawk260z•

Search for monroe pads on amazon, there is a $15 rebate... I found some for my tacoma for $10.28 before rebate.

2
eyeciteOP•

ah, yeah. i see. thanks!

1
goodduck•

might want to check gearheaddeals.com as well

2
eyeciteOP•

will do. thanks

1
4fishlimit•

Monroe is currently offering a mail in rebate on shocks and struts. Buy 3 get the 4th free. For your import, I would recommend their OESpectrum line of struts, otherwise go with KYB for your replacements.

I would highly recommend purchasing your brake parts from a local supplier. Typically they are competitive on pricing for these items, and should a warranty issue arise, you can get it handled quicker than via a web based retailer.

As far as brand goes, I really like O'Reilly's house brand of brake pads (Sold under the Brake Best name), but wouldn't recommend anything less than their Brake Best Select line (yellow and black box). For name brand, it's hard to beat the Wagner ThermoQuiet line of pads.

I would also suggest that you avoid buying the cheapest rotors possible (ie: Made in China), however Raybestos offers a economy line rotor (even though it is made in China) that is a 100% OE replacement in terms of thickness and vane configuration, which is something most Chinese made replacements cannot claim.

FWIW, I have 5 years (and counting) experience behind the parts counter and 2 years turning wrenches. Hope the info helps!

2
eyeciteOP•

thanks dude. helpful. i shall pass along to those also in need

1
[deleted]•

i always use m-tec brake pads, easily the best for value.

2