Replace brake pads on a 2009 Forester?

My Forester has 50k miles on it. The brakes are just starting to squeal. I went to the dealer (where I have all the maintenance done for the car) to ask about the simple replacement of brake shoes. Without even looking at the car, he explained to me what they would do for the brakes- smooth out the rotors, put new shoes on, etc. @ $220 per axel. I'm not a mechanic so I do know if they are taking advantage of me or not? I called the national chain Monroe Brakes and Muffler and they made it sound much simpler- new brakes @ $100 per axel. Is this dealer just trying to rip me off or should I believe what he says and stick with him? Thanks.|||The guy at the dealer was quoting you for replacing the brake pads, resurfacing the rotors and labor. The brakes will have to be checked to see whether it is your front, rear or both that need replacing. Personally, I think most dealerships are not worth going to for service. Typically the labor is overpriced, quality of work not where it should be for the price, and unneeded service is quite often recommended. When I replace brakes I like to replace the rotors as well as the pads just so that there is no chance of a pedal vibration coming on after just replacing the pads. That is more expensive way to do it but it is the best way. My advice is to take it to a trustworthy independent shop. Aftermarket parts do the job just fine and are cheaper.|||Monroe may have quoted the basic price without any extra work( turning the rotors etc.) I personally would do it myself. If it is just the pads, it is about 25 to 50 dollars. The dealer will charge much higher rates for labor.|||You should get an opinion from an independent mechanic. Dealers are generally extremely pricey, and it may turn out that you need a lot less than they suggested.