2003 Toyota Echo Brake Vibration

TOYOTA ECHO
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OTHERWAY
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  • 2 POSTS
Hi,
Hopefully, someone can answer this:
I have a 2003 4-door (auto) echo sedan with 67,000K. I noticed there was vibration when I started braking and was told that I needed to replace the front brake pads (plus, shims, grind pad holders) and rotors. I was told that I could get aftermarket rotors but other than costs (being the one benefit) are aftermarket rotors as good as original parts? I hear that they tend to wear faster so I'm a bit concerned.
Jul 31, 2006 at 6:30 AM
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DJ_2CB
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Depends on driving style and manufacturer of the aftermarket parts, At my shop we use AM parts alot. and seems they last quite a while (about 30-40k miles on average sometimes longer)
Aug 2, 2006 at 3:29 PM
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SERVICE WRITER
  • ✓Experienced Mechanic
  • 9,123 POSTS
Don't get too caught up in OEM vs. aftermarket rotors. The dealer uses aftermarket parts in many cases also. They number it as if it were an oem part.

I use weaever brake rotors available at advance auto parts. They ar low end in price and very rarly have a problem. Maybe 1 out of 100?

The chinese are making high quality parts at low cost due to labor. Much of the machinery that used to make these parts here have been shiiped to China. Sad but real. Everyone laughed at Ross Perot when he said that it would happen.
Aug 8, 2006 at 1:37 PM
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Suggested Repair

Aftermarket front rotors are acceptable if a reputable brand is chosen; quality and driving style affect life more than OEM labeling. Weaver rotors from Advance Auto Parts were recommended as inexpensive and rarely problematic, with typical life around 30,000-40,000 miles. Also replace the front pads, shims, and pad hardware as advised.

Conversation Summary

The owner of a 2003 Toyota Echo with 67,000 miles reported vibration when braking and was advised to replace the front pads, shims, pad holders, and rotors. They asked whether aftermarket rotors wear faster than original parts. Replies said results depend on the manufacturer and driving style, that shops and dealers often use aftermarket parts, and that quality low-cost rotors such as Weaver can last about 30,000-40,000 miles with few problems.

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