1st & 2nd Generation (1983–1986 & 1987-1991)Toyota Camry Discussion for years: 1983-1986 & 1987-1991.
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I have a 91 Camry DX 3SFE. I had new rotors and pads installed 2 years ago. I noticed my fluid level has dropped a little, so I am probably due for new pads. Does anyone have any recommendations as to brands. Also, what is better, semi-metallic or ceramic? Any other advice? Thanx as always. This site is great!
"I had new rotors and pads installed 2 years ago."
That really doesn't tell people much. How many miles have you driven during those 2 years? If not that many, I would be checking the brake hydraulic system for leaks, just to be safe.
As far as pads, I like the full ceramic pads.
Mike
Last edited by Mike Gerber; 11-25-2008 at 05:40 PM.
I have driven the car about 30,000 miles. I looked for fluid leaks at the front calipers and back cylinders and couldnt find any. The fluid level hasnt dropped much, but you can see it under the Max line.
30,000 miles isn't that much, but it really depends upon how you drive. I would say most people get at least 40,000 miles on a set of pads. Why not just remove the front wheels and inspect the pads for wear. There is an inspection hole in the calipers. You may have more pad left than you think.
I have driven the car about 30,000 miles. I looked for fluid leaks at the front calipers and back cylinders and couldnt find any. The fluid level hasnt dropped much, but you can see it under the Max line.
the brake fluid will "drop" since going into the brake line, when you replace the brake pads, the fluid will magically re-appear in the reservoir.
Went to the Toyota Dealership today and the parts guy told me that they recommend ceramic pads over other types. It said the same thing on TireRack.com as well.
"The fluid level hasnt dropped much, but you can see it under the Max line."
This may be from just normal wear on the pads. As the pads wear, the hydraulic system must push the pads out a bit further to contact the rotors. This will make the fluid level drop and it will be necessary to add some fluid from time to time. Again, this doesn't necessarily mean there is a fluid leak. It also doesn't necessarily mean it's time to change the pads. You may have a lot of pad life still left. Like I said before, jack up the front of the car, remove the 2 front wheels and inspect the pad thickness through the inspection hole on the calipers.
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