How do I know when it's time to get new brake pads?

Originally Posted by MadChemist

You can save yourself some money by doing it yourself. Pop the wheel off, get a piece of stiff wire (coat hanger). On the back side of the brake caliper are two bolts, untighten them and remove. Wiggle the caliper off, hang caliper on wire from spring, remove brake pad. Look at the brake pad, there should be a groove in the middle. If there isn't time for new pads. You'll only replace rotors if they are warped (can't be resurfaced) or out of spec. I would recommend non-oem pads due to noise and brake dust. I was really happy with EBC on my 350z (just my opinion). To put back together, reverse order and torque bolts to spec.