YACT: Where to get brakes done?

[Garion]

I've got a '97 Jeep Grand Cherokee and need to get the brakes done - Probably all four. About 40,000 miles ago I had the pads changed and rotors turned. We live on some major hills, so we have to do it more often than most, I'm afraid.

We don't have a regular garage that we take it to - The place we DID go to messed things up too many times and I don't think I want to go back there again.

So, now for the question.. Go for a chain brake shop, since they do them pretty regularly and should do a fair job for cheap, take it to the dealership and pay through the nose, or try and find another independant? I'd love to do it myself, but my time is limited and I don't really have the tools I need to get it done.

I know there's a lot of very car savvy people out there out there, and I'd appreciate any input you can provide!

- G

 

[RagingBITCH]

Chain brake shops suck. Find the time to do it yourself - the drums will take the most time. It isn't that difficult but just time consuming the first time. If that's not an option, independent, then dealership, then that crappy regular garage, and then way in the back, chain brake shop

 

[Quixfire]

Chain Stores: Cheap pads and labor, most of their ?mechanics? learn on the job. If you need more than just the basics they tend to overcharge for additional parts and labor. Warranty is subject to their terms, they tend to blame other components for their parts or labor failures.

Independent Garage: Better quality parts, most of the time, and fair labor charges. Most likely won?t overcharge for additional parts and labor. Mechanics could be factory trained or ever better certified than a chain store. Most likely will get a more complete repair for your money. Warranties vary, but most likely to get a lifetime warranty on pads/shoes and 12 months on anything else.

Dealerships: Higher priced parts, but OEM quality, and higher labor prices. Factory trained mechanics with access to TSBs, which could improve the overall braking system. Won?t overcharge of additional parts, their part prices are high enough already, and will come with a 12/12K parts and labor warranty.

 

[iamwiz82]

Originally posted by: RagingBITCH
Chain brake shops suck. Find the time to do it yourself - the drums will take the most time. It isn't that difficult but just time consuming the first time. If that's not an option, independent, then dealership, then that crappy regular garage, and then way in the back, chain brake shop

97 Grand Cherokee's do not have drums. The only years they had them were 93(all GCs) and 94(discs were an option)

Stay away from OEM rotors, as they are garbage as you probably know. I would be shocked it you didnt have vibes when braking. Jeep has had issues with their rotors for some time and it continues today.