So I had OEM pads replaced with PBR Metallic pads on all four corners
two weeks ago during my 90,000 mile service. Up until today, I have
noticed very little noise coming from them. Today, after the first
big rain after having the service done, I'm getting a loud squeal
from the front brakes when coming to a complete stop. I know people
have said that these pads aren't the most quiet, but this noise is
making me consider going back to the dirty OEM pads.

Anyone have any suggestions for me?

-John

Today I took the car to the shop that installed the brakes
and the mechanic said that the noise could be from the rotors
not being machined.

Originally when I had the work done, all they did was de-glaze
the rotors. He said that it'll be another $75 to do the machining
and that would be the extent of my cost.

Should I quit while i'm ahead and opt to install the OEM pads
by myself or should I let them do the machining on the rotors?

Thanks gang,

John

Had the same problem after replacing rotors and pads (Brembo and PBR from IPD). Used proper grease, etc. Gave up and put on a set of Raybestos Quiet Stop pads all round. Used the stick-on shims, brake grease and broke them properly and they have been as quiet as advertised. Well worth the premium price.

George
855T, 1994, 70K

George,
Where did you find these QS pads? I've checked on these for our V70 and can't get them anywhere. Having awful problems with the Axxis front pads. Used Permatex Disc Brake Quiet on backing plates and synthetic caliper lube.

Thanks,
Greg B

What kind of antisqueal goop did they use on the back side of the pads? I've noticed some places never use this stuff.

I've been replacing brake pads on cars for over 25 years. I know it seems like a band-aid but one treatment usually lasts the life of the pad. I like to use a 50/50 mix of Silglyde brake compound and Copaslip. You don't need a ton and use extreme care not to get it on the friction surfaces.

I've seen this happen with BMW rotors. The problem seems to be build up of baked on brake pad dust from previous pads, cooked on the rotors. It reacts with the new brake pad compound and makes horrible noises. I've found the the following to help:

1) Follow the manufacturers recommended "bed-in" procedure very closely. It usually goes something like, accelerate to 10 mph, slow using minimal brake force. Accelerate to 15 mph, slow with minimal brake force and wait 20 seconds. Repeat in 5 mph increments until you're going 50 mph or whatever is reasonable in your neighboorhood/town/locale.

2) Replace your rotors when you move to a different pad compound. In the event that you don't want to make the investment in new rotors (especially when the old ones are just fine) you could try taking the rotors to a shop to have them "turned". This will decrease the life of the rotors slightly, but should clear off any of the old baked on brake pad nastiness.

Moving back to OEM pads might work, but it may continue to react with whatever the current pad leaves behind.

Good luck!

-=Nick

Go back to the OE pads and, if you're not changing pads yourself, get the tools and learn how to DIY. With the OE pads you'll change them more often, but you'll change rotors less often.

-cj