I have a 2004 BMW 530i, with about 500 miles left on the front brakes. The dealer quoted $383 for the front brakes alone, and around $700 if it was necessary to replace some rotor covering or other, I can't quite recall the names. They said they wouldn't know if that was necessary until they took things apart and had a look.

Is the cost reasonable? Sounds very expensive to me. Other than a dealer, where else could I go, and how much could I expect to save? I'd prefer non-generic parts.

Just go to any good tire store or Sears or Midas. $100 for pads and $200 more if you need rotors.