[goatman65]

Do brake linings go bad from age? Should shoes or pads be replaced after X amount of years even if they look ok?

My rear shoes were put on in the 1990s and look and work okay, but was wondering if they should be replaced.

And, bonded or riveted, why is there a choice? Is one better?

And, Are brand name shoes/pads better than say.. Advance Auto or Autozone?

[Goatracer1]

I have been a mechanic for over 30 years and these are my opinions. In the box pads and linings should stay good forever. On the car I have found that rust builds up between the braking material and metal shoe/pad and they can work loose. Check periodically. If you live in a very dry climate they should last longer. I checked my brakes on 1967 GTO last year and ended up replacing the calipers and rear wheel cylinder but not the pads or shoes. They had been on about 17 years. Riveted shoes used to be "heavy duty". Don't know about today's. I would definitely buy a name brand. The store brand MIGHT be just as good but I have no way of knowing.