That point about not trusting the computer for every check engine light is so true. I used to just scan the code and buy the part it suggested. Then I wasted money on an O2 sensor for a code that was actually a vacuum leak. Like @lilyross said, it happens all the time. Now I always check the simple stuff first, like hoses and connections. It saves so much time and cash to actually look under the hood before throwing parts at it.

Yeah, uneven wear is a real headache. I read on a mechanic's blog that using a small mirror or a borescope can help see the inner pad without pulling the wheel. But like @verap52 said, safety first, so if there's any doubt, I still pull the wheel for a direct look. It's extra work but better than missing worn pads.

What palette did Sam end up sticking with? I tried a similar limit for some poster art last year and it cuts choices down so fast. You stop fiddling with shades and just focus on if the read is clear. It's surprising how good just a few bold colors can look when you commit.

My cousin's diesel rig failed, a TOTAL nightmare to fix.