Well, it's that time. My '02 WRX's brakes are finally squeaking and I need to change them. I'm not really looking for high performance pads or anything. Would OEM pads from the dealer do? Or would it be better to just hit up the local Midas and have them do it?

Recommendations? Thanks!!

 

If I could suggest some Hawk HPS brake pads, they are not too expensive and they are not too harsh on the rotors.

Austin

 

https://www.i-club.com/forums/suspension-brakes-handling-wheels-tires-162/new-vendor-brake-sale-123002/
I would recommend

Hawk HPS pads
Posi Quiet Ceramic Pads - $53.00 (Not listed in thread)
Axxis Deluxe PLus or Metal Masters

If you are hard on the brake at times, I probably wouldn't recommend Deluxe Plus.

Thanks.

 

Agreed - good reports from many people

 

we should have a meet there he is in so cal

 

Newbie question but ummm...

If I buy some brake pads online, can I take it to a local Midas or brake place to have them install it?

 

The best reccomendation is to STICK WITH STOCK PADS. Trust me, you'll regret the high performance pads ie. warped rotors, noise, excessive brake dust.

 

I was able to fade the OEM pads in my '02 WRX in one long downhill grade from a freeway off-ramp to avoid going through a red light. It's happened on a few occasions where moderately hard braking was required. The stock pads just do not do well under moderate to hard braking, especially after repeated stops when they do not have a chance to cool down.

I installed a mild upgrade for the stock brakes using replacement DBA rotors, Motul RBF 600 synthetic brake fluid, stainless braided lines (front, only), and Axxis Ultimate pads. The Ultimates (and the Metal Masters) are known for dusting and they have lived up to their reputation. Still, the dust wipes off easily when washing the car (on those rare occasions ), they make only slightly more noise than OEM pads, and these tradeoffs are more than justified by the consistent, fade-resistant performance that these easily installed parts give me even at a road course track day. On the street, I've yet to encounter even a hint of fade during the occasional hard braking on the freeway to avoid a collision.

For this particular car, I would never go back to the OEM pads. My brake mods are a cost effective upgrade before moving up to a big brake kit for track use.

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