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Brakes are perhaps the most integral components of your vehicle. They keep you, your car, passengers, and other road users safe by allowing you to stop in a blink of an eye. So, if you experience trouble stopping your car in a dime, it might be time to replace your brake pads and rotors.
Brake rotors are among the most critical and durable components of the braking system. They are strong, round metal wheels located inside your car tire and attached to the entire system. The brake calipers squeeze the rotors creating massive friction that ultimately brings your car to a quick stop. Well, with continuous use and the incredible friction involved, the rotors are bound to wear out. As a rule of thumb, you should have your brake rotors replaced every 50,000 to 70,000 miles and 10,000 to 20,000 miles for the brake pads to keep your braking system in perfect condition.
Factors Affecting Brake Rotor Wear
- The type of brake rotor
- Your driving style and conditions
- The quality of your brake pads and rotors
- Axle positions
- Car weight
Signs that Your Vehicle's Brake Rotors Need to be Repaired
- Vibrating steering wheel: Sometimes, you might feel a slight vibration on your steering wheel when trying to slow down. This is one of the common red flags of worn-out brake pads, indicating that the rotors are exposed to excess heat.
- Intermittent Screeching: This is one of the most common and easily noticeable signs. A high-pitched screeching noise when slowing down indicates the need to inspect and replace your brake rotors or pads.
- Grinding noises: If not timely addressed, the screeching noises will advance to grumbling grinding sounds, especially when braking. This is a clear sign that your brake pads are worn out and sometimes an old rotor that needs replacement.
- Cracks on the Brake Rotor: Due to their constant subjection to intense heat, the brake rotor surfaces are bound to crack. There are two types of cracks, including heat checking featuring small hairline cracks on the rotor surface and a crack to the edge, which is a sign of a worn-out rotor.
If you need brake repair or routine brake maintenance, we invite you to bring your vehicle to The Model Garage today!