Does anybody know why stock replacement front brake pads for my '06 Cooper would cost $104.11 at the dealer and $25.99 at Autozone ? Is there something about the Dealer OEM pads (except for the astronomical mark-up) that makes them so much better than the ones at Autozone ?

Thanks for your input.

Papa Dude

 

For my 2003 MC, I bought my front and back pads and all four rotors from Auto Zone. Very pleased with the results. The entire project was less than an afternoon and cost about $220.00. My rotors were worn under the minimum thickness although I had about 1/3-1/2 pad life remaining. The factory pads must be very abrasive. Even if you have remaining rotor life, it's not worth the cost to turn them for what it costs to buy new from AZ. Now I have a lifetime warranty on all pads and just replace the rotors at each change. Braking seems equal. Thanks/good luck.

 

I bought Raybestos pads/rotors for mine, and not only were they cheaper by more than half but they produce almost no brake dust after a good bed in.