Hi Scotty - I'm purchasing a used 2017 Mazda 6, Grand Touring, 2.5L automatic transmission, with approx. 50k miles from Carmax at the end of this month. Carmax just put 4 new tires on the car, but I don't know the condition of the front two brakes and rotors. I suspect if the tires were just replaced by Carmax, then the front brakes and rotors might need replacing, too. Would you agree? If so, do you have an existing youtube video that can instruct me on how to do the rotor/brake job myself? Thank you, in advance. Cool Hand Luke.
I suspect if the tires were just replaced by Carmax, then the front brakes and rotors might need replacing, too. Would you agree?
No. That's not logical.
do you have an existing youtube video that can instruct me on how to do the rotor/brake job myself?
Yes. Search Scotty's youtube page, or read the "Read this first" topic.
https://carkiller.com/scottykilmer/qa/read-this-first/#post-54107
checking the brake pads could be as easy as shining a flashlight between the wheel spokes
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LZHf85IXEIY
Thank you, MountainManJoe! This is really helpful.
brake rotor life is different for everybody. There are too many variables. You need to monitor them, just like tires.
Unless you develop problems, you don't need to worry about rotors with only 50k miles. Have your competent mechanic check it out for you when you have routine maintenance done.
https://ricksfreeautorepairadvice.com/need-new-brakes/
Sometimes the minimum thickness is stamped right on the rotor.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=damTONNmMWY
Will do, MountainManJoe. And thank you again for the valuable insight regarding some anticipation regarding front brakes. When I go back to carmax to buy this used car I'm going to ask them the current brake pad thickness on the front end. Because there have been 2 previous owners, I can only guess as to what their driving styles were which is what you were driving at, i think. Too many variables right now. Anyhow, this is great stuff and I appreciate you being generous with your time. Have a good evening.
I would take it to a competent and honest independent mechanic to have it checked out. But it's a double edged sword. It's like going to the doctor when you have a pimple on your ass and before you know it, you have high blood pressure, lactose intolerance and pre-type 2 diabetes. They will all find a way to get their hand into your pocket. You have to be smarter than your average bear.
Thank you, Doc. That's very insightful. Fyi, I did finally find Scotty's video on how to change rotors and brakes, so I'm good there. Just need to find a place where I can rent a garage and do the repairing myself.
Why do you think you need to change to rotors? Just change the pads. If they are bad, have the rotors turned.
Good question since I have no answer. I haven't seen the pads or rotors with my own two eyes yet. I'm just anticipating with 50k miles and two previous car owners that the pads and/or rotors might be nearing the end of their useful life. Just a hunch. I could be wrong. Question: On average, how long do front rotors last with 50k miles?
Depends on who is driving and how they drive. You need to visually inspect them to know for sure.
Understood. Appreciate your good feedback, Doc.
If you are buying it from Carmax, the front brakes are going to be the least of your problems.
I see. What major problems, then, can I anticipate by purchasing thru Carmax? Appreciate the feedback, in advance.
Same as any dealer. They lie, cheat, spray the engine compartment down with WD40 to make it shiny and do their best to hide everything wrong with the car. Is their any kind of warranty with this purchase? Have you read it with a magnifying glass and your attorney with you?
Ah, gotcha. No, I haven't decided on which warranty plan of extended coverage to go with( either via Caxmax or my credit union). And have not involved legal representation since I haven't purchased it yet( the car is being transferred to the closest carmax near me). Do you have any recommendation? One more question: is the 'carmax' certification a bunch of fluff then, based on your statement? Personally, I am thinking of taking the car to a Mazda dealer to have them run the codes and tell me if it is a lemon or not, including any major problems. Maybe take it to a reputable independent mechanic if I can find one by the time the car arrives to the dealership. Thanks again.
Doc, one final question: If carmax and dealers all lie and cheat, where then do you recommend I purchase a used car? Thanks!
From a cooperative private party, of course.