1983 300SD needs brakes light just came on.
 

Two weeks ago the brake light on the dash flicks on once in a while.
I think I need brake pads. What is the best way?
Also once in a while the car shudders when I accelerate just after it warms up.
Then it runs smooth as a babies ....you know what.....

Hello and welcome to the forum! You are correct, if you see the light on the dash, it is likely that the bulb is on its way out and will need to be replaced soon. The shuddering can be caused by a few factors, are there any other details that you can provide?

When I referred to the brake light I am talking about the warning light for the brakes.
Do I just replace pads? My mechanic says it is best to replace the rotors too.
If the rotors are not damaged why replace them? On other cars you replace the rotor b/c it is damaged beyond the point where turning the rotor will not be good.

The shuddering is very brief then it really smooths out. This does not happen often. I can not find a cause and effect correlation.
Note this is a 1983 300sd that I gave a blank check to my mechanic to go bumper to bumper and fix everything two years ago.

I agree and don't see a reason that you would need to replace the rotors unless they are really worn. The brake pads are likely the ones that need replacing. When you see it shudders, does it feel like a misfire or just a general 'shake'?

The shudder was b/c of low transmission fluid.
Thx for the reply.

Ah, that's an easy fix! Glad to help out, please let us know if you have any other questions or if we can assist with any part needs.