How do i know when i need them besides the noise? do i just replace the pads or do i do the rotors too? what do i do?

 

your car should have an indicator light, unless someone bought pads without them, noise(depending) just means the pads are getting low

do you feel any vibration when stopping?

you looking to upgrade wheel size? what size do you have now?


more info about your car and mods would help get you a better answer

 

When you hit the brakes and just slam into the object in front of you you need brakes. j/k

You should do a visual check if you think you need them. I just turn the wheel and take a look maybe even feel around. Never just replace pads it can cause uneven wear patterns and may wear out faster.

 

a visual check is good enough like are the rotors getting thin ( check the outeredge of the rotor for a large lip due to ware ) excess tram lines on the rotors - worn breakpads and watch out for this one because the inner pad wears faster because of the setup

 

well thanks for the info guys. my pads look pretty thick still and i cant really tell about the rotors. do i have to take the wheel off?
and for wheels im looking to put on some 17" once the snow stops melting.

 

Yeah take the wheels off and feel the edge of the rotors, if it has a large lip the rotors are close or below specs.