front brakes

[jandtcollins]

I had the front rotors and brake pads replaced at 3004 miles. At 3400 miles I took it back again because it was evident that the problem had not been fixed. The dealer said that it was sand from the dirt roads. After I looked at the design I agree. The pads being on the front of the rotor is not a problem because they are on many new cars. But, The pads being tapered allows the sand to be carried around the rotor and into the pad surface. Without the taper the sand would be knocked of by the square edge of the pad. The taper is there for noise reduction. Moral of the story is stay off dirt roads. has anyone replaced pads with aftermarket that are not tapered???

[ragingfish]

We have TONS of dirt roads around here, and my brakes work just as great as the day I bought the car...

[jandtcollins]

well. Ok. But, the rotors were worn out. And when I made them show me you could actually see the sand and tracks in the pads. I just figure it was a fluke then.

[RoundUp]

That is strange. Chamfered pads are pretty common, especially in Toyotas. You'd think if there was a problem with premature wear on dirt roads, they wouldn't be used. They provide smoother engagement between the pads and rotors. That eliminates the shuddering that might be heard with ordinary pads. It gives the perception of quality, but I don't think it does anything for stopping power. I hope your brake job was covered under warranty. Please keep us updated on how long the new ones last.

[ragingfish]

I wasn't doubting your situation at all. I was just saying it was odd, because I have similar roads around here, but haven't had similar problems.Cheers!

[jandtcollins]

I had the dealer check the pads at the next oil change. Which was yesterday, and they are fine. We moved off the dirt road last month . It had to be the sand I guess. And yes it was under warranty. I would have hated to see that bill.