> It is a bummer to go to the dealer for brake pads/shoes
> but they are worth the coin, unless a list
> vendor has OEM pads for chump change.

Okay, I've got 'em for chump change. :-)  Fronts are $19.95/set, rears are
$29.95/set. (A set does both sides of the axle.)  These are either VW
branded or German Pagid (OEM supplier to VW).  I bypass VW and import
directly from Germany, hence the low price.

That said, I should note that brake squeal may not be caused by the pads.  A
squeal is caused by vibration.  Worn brake hardware (springs etc) can also
cause a vibration-induced squeal, even with the best shoes and pads. So can
an uneven rotor or drum surface, or glazing that can be caused by even one
panic stop.  I do sell hardware kits if your hardware has not been replaced
recently; probably not neccessary to replace every time, but it couldn't
hurt.  Similarly, brake fade can be caused by various things, including a
brakedown of the fluid due to moisture in the lines or heating during
excessive braking (i.e. down steep hills). VW recommends flushing and
replacing all of your brake fluid periodically since brake fluid can absorb
moisture over time, a procedure that many people do not bother with.  There
are many Vanagons out there with 100-150k miles on them that still have the
original 15-year-old fluid, except for whatever may have been added while
"topping off" the resorvoir.

- Ron Salmon
  The Bus Depot, Inc.
  http://www.busdepot.com
  (215) 234-VWVW