Hey guys, can some brake experts help out???

[AZhitman]

Here's an email I received from "Julia" - Let's get her some pro advice:

I own a 1999 Infiniti G20 and I recently had the rotors and brake pads replaced, but I was noticing problems with stopping and how long it would take my car to stop. So I took my car to get checked at a different repair shop and they told me the problem was because the original repair shop didn't use Inifiniti pads or shims. When I went back and complained to the original repair shop, they told me that I didn't need to have Infiniti pads, and that the aftermarket pads they used were high enough that they didn't need shims. I saw on your website, that most people at NICO think Infiniti pads are best for Infiniti, could you please verify that? This problem has cost me money and endangered my safety, so I would like to be able to file a complaint with the owner of the repair shop. Thanks

[KFL]

Basics..-Brake master has a small leak introducing air into system, cause lag in braking. -ABS/Brake Booster/Hose etc. system component issue-Wrong parts rotors/pad abs/non-abs

1-Was the car before having the new parts installed, same braking feel. If so changing parts would have no effect. Basic mechanic shop would have no reason to bleed/or check master cylinder/abs system. (Dealership or a Jiffy lube check all components in addition, I believe to mention it to you to have serviced=more cash to them of course later on.)-Some aftermarket pads come with shims onto the pad..duralast etc.-Pads are pads just variations on materials-cost-squeak factor-brake dust accumulation etc.

[elwesso]

IMO shims have nothing to do with this. Theyre mainly for noise reduction.. FWIW I dont use shims and Ive had no problems except sometimes I get some clicking.

Most aftermarket pads will have adequate stopping power for such a light car. They may not give you the best stopping power, but adequate. I would personally bleed the brakes and see where we stand.

[onosqv]

Most of the time, the shops don't adequately bleed the brakes, or break them in properly after installing them, or forget to carb clean/brake clean the rotors & pads (could cause glazing of the rotor and decrease braking performance).