Question Akbano pads: new rotors, too?

[milesprower]

I'm getting to the point where it is time to replace the front pads on our 2002 Highlander. I have read through the posts and it appears the Akebano ProAct ceramic pads are highly recommended.

Many people also are buying new Brembo rotors when installing the Akebano pads. Is that necessary? This is the first time to replace the pads and I was going to get the OE Rotors machined.

Are the OE rotors not rated for the Akebano pads?

[ddvk]

If this is the first time you are turning the rotors that would surfice. No need for new rotors.
The ceramic pads you chose should be fine if u have done the homework. I prefer Raybestos QS ceramics since I have been using Raybestos for a long time.

[bepperb]

If you have an 02, and you live in Illinois where they salt roads in winter, is this really the first set of rotors?

But yes, the OEM rotors can be turned once and will be fine. The only reason people use the Brembo rotors is that they come from the same place as Hawk/Satisfies/Akebono pads (genrally tirerack.com) and they're pretty cheap.

I get rotors turned for free at a checker auto by us. If worse comes to worst, you can take your rotors there, they'll tell you they won't turn them (if they're too thin, or warped) and you can buy rotors there.

[milesprower]

Yes,

I really live in the western suburbs of Chicago. I work from home a lot and the Highlander is always parked indoors, so it does not get a lot of use (roughly 7k miles/yr).

[milesprower]

One other question: When I'm looking online, there are two choices for Akebono pads, one that appears to be the standard set for ~$64 and one that says it comes with shims for ~ $71.

What is puzzling is the the description for the standard set says it comes with precision shims. Anyone know the difference between the two?