Many so called cheap brake shops end up selling parts or services that you don't need.
Have brakes inspected and measured
- Every time you rotate and balance tires (every 6000 miles)
- By ASE Certified tech
- Be sure to keep record of dates and measurements
Find a good shop, which will teach you about brakes before you need them, and who will answer your questions.
It is also important to flush your brake system regularly:
- ABS - annually
- Non-ABS - every 2 years
- When cloudy or contaminated (brake fluid absorbs water from atmosphere)
I also recommend always installing premium parts...there only two things you always want your car to do: Go and Stop.
Generic isn't always the best value.