Brake pads? How often do they need to be changed?

[Anonymous]

So we haven't found a reliable mechanic yet in the Rockville area and I don't trust the ones that we have been to. There many instances where I felt they changed things too early or didn't ask permission and did the work. I don't have a good working knowledge of car maintenance but how often to brake pads need to be changed? Are rotor work (either replacing or reworking) needed every time you change a brake pad? How much does it usually cost to change two front pads? Also, any recommendation for a good mechanic in the Rockville area? TIA.

[Anonymous]

It depends on the car and type of brake pads used. VWs have soft rotors that need to be changed every time the pads are changed. I got 60K miles out of my Kia brake pads, which is more than is typical.

Rotors + pads could be $350-$500. I don’t know about install prices for just pads. I usually do those myself. You should be able to see the rotors and pads without removing anything. Look online for pictures of brake pads. If you can see some thickness on the inner part, you can wait on changing them.