well, ive had my car(2001 a4 1.8tqm) for about 4k miles now, 51k total, and the brake pad light has come on. i took it to midas for a preliminary inspection , expecting to be oversold on replacements, but was shocked when he handed me a potential bill for $840, claiming i need new pads and rotors front and back. at this price, it seems like i should just upgrade everything, and spend a little extra money, possibly doing the install myself. this will be the first thing i actually do to my car by my own hand, and i just thought i'd check to see if anyone wants to let me know A) if im just a fool for trying to learn with something like this B) how to tell if i actually do need all this and C) maybe somebody wants to be especially kind and get together to help me with the operation. This is just a shot in the dark, but i appreciate any input.

i'm aware this thread is misplaced, i just posted it here because of the 3rd request

Check out rotor/pad options at <a href="http://www.ecstuning.com/stage/edpd/pagebuild_v2.cgi?make=Audi&engine=1.8T&model=B5%20A4&submodel=Quattro&category=Braking">ecstuning.com</a>.

Depending on how long your pads were gone you might be able to get away with just getting the rotors turned if they are in spec. Pads are pretty cheap depending on what you want. Do a search to see what available and used here. Upon doing the install take the rotors to Checker, Pepboys, or any of those parts stores and they will tell you if you need new ones by gauging them and or possibly turning them. As far as the brakes...
There are only two bolts you will have to remove not including the wheel to change the front pads on each side. The rear pads will require a special tool which alot of us have around or make a contraption yourself to push the piston back into the caliper. The caliper on the back also only has two bolts. If you follow the tech write up you will see that the job is VERY easy and will save you tons!!!! Many of us here on the board are willing to help I am sure. Just ask and provide a few beers and or food and anybody will assist. Good Luck

-To me a car is like Legos, dont let it fool you. Its just a bunch of parts all put together in the right order. :)

With a beer break to boot.

...go to Midas. They will universally rip you off.

If you can turn a wrench, you can do a brake job.

I've actually got a set of StopTech's (front calipers, rotors, lines etc.) that I need to get my a$$ in gear and sell. Interested?

ive got the stock 15" nonsport rims, so i doubt your stoptechs would work, but i am interested

in boulder

I'll sell you some wheels too! :)

i think those are gonna have to wait until springtime

I live in Highlands Ranch but the brakes will go very quickly and I will teach you along the way if you would like. Many others live closer so if you dont want to drive down here then I am sure others will offer a lending hand. Let us know!!

I figures this brake job was probably getting a bit expensive....

Seriously, it's easy to do it yourself. Knowing Midas, your car probably doesn't actually need half the work they claim it does. Figure out what parts you need (pads, maybe rotors) and call local auto parts stores - prices can vary widely so call a few.

A repair manual is helpful for the first time, but somebody here has probably posted a walk through. Looks like you've got an offer of help from 00Black1.8T too.

aj448 at excite dot com