BetterThanVW

I found the OEM parts online for 226.95 for the rears and 428 for the fronts (pads and rotors) anybody that tells you that brakes take more then just a couple hours is lying to you. Theoretically you could have someone do a full replacement with OEM stuff ($100 an hour labor) for you for around 850 bucks out the door.

Find a reputable shop that won't rape you and it's not so bad. Some will let you bring in your own parts which is even better. Then they can't skim you on that angle too. Or learn to do it yourself...

neunelf

BMW requires new rotors with new pads, no exceptions.
BMW rotors are not as expensive as some others.
I've never had brakes replaced under the "free" maintenance program. The wife's wagon has 136000 miles on her 07 3 series and still have original brakes, pads etc. I do have a box of replacement pads, rotors and hardware waiting to put them on when sensor goes on. They've been sitting in my garage for 2 years now!

Sickler

I had mine in for the 35k service and my pads were around 6mm left. I don't track it but I'm heavy footed for sure.

sap_pete

I usually change rotors every other time. I can see the manufacturers want to err on the side of caution, and it doesn't hurt that they make a lot of extra money, too.

Just changed the front pads on the Q7 myself, and the rotors looked like new. Of course, the OEM pads are like butter and leave brake dust like nobody's business, so I would expect the rotors to hold up.

I had the car in service a couple thousand miles later, and the Service guys didn't complain.

newmoon

Just had my 25k mile service and they reported 10mm left on the front and rear brake pads. Yes I drive conservatively because I don't fancy having to drop $1,000 on a brake job any time soon.

Always had lots of brake dust though. So is this really indicative of a soft pad compound that should not wear the rotors down as much?

They changed the brake fluid as well at 2 years, included under AudiCare. Pedal feel is now firmer with no slack when first pressing it. Caught me off guard when I first got back in the car.

mannya4

I have a premium plus, do I have a warning light for my brake pads? My dealer told me my rear is now at 4 mm....
Can you let me know where did you find the parts please? Apparently a6 have 3 different type of brake pads....many thanks for all the help...

auditron

25,000 miles is very early for brakes to wear it seems. I guess the difference is the type of driving we do. I do about 80% or so highway so the brakes last a lot longer. My daughter has a Q7 and that monster burns through brakes every 20/25,000 miles but she does mostly in town driving. Between tires and brakes on the Q7 you may need a second mortgage. A6 is a lot lighter thus better on wear & tear.