I'm gettin ready to change my oil and fluids again and I was curious of other maintenance needs. I'm still running the stock brakes, tires, and i got the car 3 yrs ago. Somethin tells me it's time to get things replaced. There are no bad sounds or rough idles and the plugs have been changed. What have you guys noticed have been goin bad around the 40k marker?

 

I am willing to bet your front brake pads are starting to wear pretty thin. Your rears are probably ok as they don't do nearly the amount of work as the fronts do. I'd also do some new brake fluid. I'd also inspect the belts and hoses, but I suspect they are probably ok at this early age.

 

How big a deal is it to replace the pads myself. they are pretty cheap (like $15 a peice) and i'd like to do them myself. I know the shoes in the back might be harder just b/c there are drums but what is involved in doing all four tire's brakes? Like what tools would i need? Any specialty tools that I couldnt buy at Lowes?

 

Wow, your brakes lasted that long? My front pads needed to be replaced around 30K. All this damn stop and go driving...

 

Front pads are pretty easy, especially if you've done them before Seriously though, get a shop manual and follow the instructions. Take your time and be patient thinking things through.

 

is there anything special to consider when i'm playing with the calipers. Like any special tools of just a wrench and some screw drivers?