Brake Servicing And Lifespan

[WazR32GTSt]

I've had my car for about 3.5 years now..

and i have not actually changed the brake pads or fluid before!

recently, the brake warning light came on and i topped it up with fluid..

and now when i brake i get a very faint metallic rattle

but no sqeualing etc..

i have decided to change the pads and go bendix ultimates and while i'm at it, get the caliper greased up etc.

what's the general lifespan of brake pads?

can i check my pads for brake levels without takign the wheel off? how do i check?

also, when you get the pads/fluid changed, do they generally do other stuff to service the brakes like greasing the insides of the caliper (pistons) etc?

and finally, what is the likelihood that the disc will need machining? they feel ok when braking...

thanks for anyone with any help and suggestions

Warren.

[DaFuca]

The last set of breaks i got have done me about 50,000 in the front so far and the rears are getting changed today and have done just over 70,000.

I have always heard that it is best to get ya rotors machined with every set of pads.

[WazR32GTSt]

well i've put on about 50,000kms since buyign it so i can't assume that it came with enw pads..

thanks for your help