Last weekend my 4x failed to engage on my 06 F-150 FX4, so I took it to my local dealer to find the problem. The informed me it was an intermitten problem and would be fixed under warrenty. Then they told me that my breaks where shot and for $965 they would replace all the pads and send me on my way. Should it really cost that much when all they are going to do is change pads?

 

Ya, pretty much what they'd want $$$ for the job, hopefully for that price they even throw in a new brake pedal too I'm pretty sure they usually charge around 700. Is doing it yourself not an option? Have it looked at and typically the fronts would need it before the rears. Do shop around, smaller shops will charge less and give you less b/s.

 

I was thinking about doing it myself... Suppose I should pick up a Haynes or Chilton manual first

 

Really it's not hard, a haynes or chilton will be great for reference. The majority of members here have first hand experiences too so. Clean the contact surfaces, anti-seize the certain areas, blue threadlock the large caliper bolts, that kinda stuff.

 

Stock replacement pads all around can't cost but 60-70 bucks and then get the rotors turned for a new surface for the pads to ride on. You don't go to the stealership for work you pay for. Go get an estimate from a brake shop and compare. Do it yourself and save a bunch of bucks.

 

$$$965

HOLY SMOKES!! I just put Carquest Blues (semi-metallic) on for $110 (front and rear), so they want $855 labor!! (not to mention, your brake dust issues won't go away with OEM pads)

It's literally two bolts holding each caliper on. The fronts were easy, and the back was ridiculously easy.

Get the book and do it yourself, save $850+.

It cost me three hours, including rotating the tires and washing the tires and wheels while they were off.

Vfrei, since it sounds like you're new to doing brakes, take both wheels off the axle you're going, so you can look at the other side if needed, for reference. Disc brakes are fairly easy. Drum brakes are when you really want the other side for reference - but a non-issue in this case.

I did mine yesterday, and made a bonehead mistake. I installed one pad facing the wrong way. Not because it was so confusing, but because I made a stupid mistake some how. Take your time, make sure your bolts are tight, spreader springs are put back on the front, and you hear no noises when you take your test ride.

You'll save a lot of time in the years by doing your own work. Don't be afraid of it.

 

Pick up a Haynes or Chilton manual. Changing pads and rotors is one of the easiest things to do. Pads front and rear are about $150. Motorcraft Rotors are about $75 a piece. Pickup a venier caliper and see if you can have your rotors machined. The minimum thickness should be stamped on the back of the rotor.