OK So I spoke to Will today and he told me that the only way to get rid of the sound would be to turn all rotors and get new brake pads. Costing about $500 at SoG. I did see that JustBrakes will turn rotors and replace brakes for $100 but I've learnt my lesson with dekalb tires. (Even those 'specializing in tires' screw up balancing wheels). I'm a totally n00b at this and I was hoping someone could explain following Qs furthur so that I can find a way to fix the problem. First, turning rotor means resurfacing right? How much does this cost ? Where is a good/reputable/cheap place to do this? Do they disassemble and reassemble for me or do I have to take teh rotors to them? do they turn slotted rotors? Second, according to Will, OEM has the minimal squeaking. How much better/worse is OEM to other similarly priced brake pads? Thirdl, what's the point of brake lines? Fourth, Wouldn't replacing brake pads get rid of teh squeking? why do I have to replace pads and turn the rotors? Fifth, What should I do ?
Yes, should be less than $50. It doesn't matter where you go, most places do a good job. You can do either, probably cheapier to just drop the rotors off, but how would you get there with no brakes... Sure can do slotted rotors. OE is probably the cheapiest, but the grip really sucks, especially at higher temps. For an extra 20-40 for a set of front pads it will improve your braking substantially (go aftermarket!). Rubber expands under pressure. Steel braded lines do not expand when heated or under pressure. It gives you a firmer pedal feel under hard braking and doesn't get squishy as they heat up. Definitely worth it. Both your pads and rotors wear. If you don't turn your rotors, you will have a nice indentation where the pad connects and you may have a very hard time removing the pad if the indentation is deep. It also preserves your rotors for longer. Rotors when worn deep enough can squeel also. Try to do as much of the work yourself as you can and save yourself the $. You will also gain a lot more knowledge about your braking system. This install requires a minimal amount of tools.
They aren't loud unless people at the bus stops cover their ears. The people along my commute cover their ears before I'm even braking... P.S. you can put anti-seize/brake stuff on the back of the rotors to help.
the problem with 95% of aftermarket pads (aka NON-SUBARU) is that they will make noise. Just brakes will try to sell you all 4 caliper rebuilds, and a bunch of other shit. Along with installing NON-OEM pads....that will make noise. The squeaking you have is very minimal and I'd live with it until you get enough $ for the OE brake job, or another set of something non-OE that'll make noise.
I feel out of place if I am not driving a car with brake noise. I feel that it gives the car more of a soul. Hawk HP+ ftw