Toyota Repair: 98 Camry XLE brake job and strut mount issue, camry xle, genuine toyota parts

Question
I just spent $500 on 60k service. The dealer suggests that the front brakes need to be changed and that would cost more than $550. Is it okay to get it done at Meineke? I will take it there tomorrow and at present I do not know how much I can save.

Also, the car does not feel smooth and makes sounds when going over bumps and pot holes. Dealer says it is the mount on the struts and it will cost $1400 to replace/fix. Any cheaper option or should I just ignore it and live with it?

Answer
Normally replacing the front brake pads and resurfacing the rotors costs around $280 even at the dealer, unless they are recommending replacing the rotors because they are worn beyond the wear limit.
$1400 sounds way to high to replace the front strut tower mounts, The parts are about $150 and the labor around $230, I don't know all the details as far as what they are recommending, maybe you should have Meineke do this also but make them use genuine toyota parts.