I've got an 07 with 25K miles and my sensor just came on. If I'm just replacing the front pads, do you guys think I need to flush the fluid and replace it or am I ok for a bit?
Nevermind - I've answered this for myself. However - I just felt the rotors and there is significant wear and a lip on the outer edge. Is it possible they need a resurfacing? Already?! I'll have to take it up to the local shop to get them to measure it.

 

What rims do you have with the Akebono ceramic that they just blend in? Had my brakes changed by the dealer and have the stock A3-2.0 rims, gets dirty FAST - and black. blah

 

I'm not sure what type of driving you do, but you may want to look into Hawk HPS pads. I have them on my 2005 STi and they're wonderful. They certainly made a difference from the standard pads, but the downside is that they squeal a bit.

I've had them on my car for about 40,000 miles, and there are times when I haven't been real nice to the brakes...

 

I'm using these rims from Tire Rack:

http://www.tirerack.com/wheels/Wheel...6&autoModClar=

Your dirty rim problem is that you used dealer-supplied pads. German pads typically work very well, and produce plenty of dark dust - just look at most BMW (fronts are usually worse) or Audi wheels. The Akebono pads work quite well for street use but dust less, the dust is less likely to stick, or it blends in amazing well (I suspect the first reason). My rears wheels (still stock pads) get much dirtier than the fronts.