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Brake Rotor Resurfacing and Replacement: When Is It Necessary?

brake rotor

Your vehicle’s braking system is an important safety feature that enables you to stop quickly and safely on the road. The braking system consists of several components, including brake pads and rotors. Over time, the rotors can become worn or damaged, affecting your vehicle’s braking performance. In this blog post, we’ll discuss when brake rotor resurfacing or replacement is necessary and how to maintain your rotors.

What Are Brake Rotors?

Brake rotors, also known as brake discs, are the metal discs that sit behind each wheel and are connected to the axle. The process of the brake pads pressing against the brake disc is what slows down or stops your vehicle. Brake discs are typically made of cast iron or steel. They can vary in size and thickness depending on the type of vehicle.

When is Brake Rotor Resurfacing Necessary?

Brake rotor resurfacing, also known as brake rotor turning, is a process that smooths out the surface of the rotor to eliminate any uneven wear or damage. Resurfacing can be done at a machine shop or by a technician with the proper equipment.

Rotor resurfacing is necessary when the rotor has minor wear or damage, such as grooves or hot spots. Resurfacing can help restore the rotor’s smooth surface and prevent uneven wear on the brake pads. It should be noted that resurfacing is not a common recommendation as oftentimes there is not enough material left to resurface or the metal composition itself can no longer be restored.

When is Brake Rotor Replacement Necessary?

Over time, brake rotors can become worn or damaged. This can affect their performance and compromise your vehicle’s ability to stop safely. Brake rotor replacement is necessary when:

  • Replacing brake pads
  • There is heavy rust buildup on the braking surface of the rotor
  • Resurfacing is not possible

Here are some signs that it’s time to replace your brake rotors:

  1. Visible Damage: If you can see cracks or significant damage on the brake rotor, it’s time to replace it.
  2. Warping: If the rotor is warped, it will cause your vehicle to vibrate or shake when you apply the brakes. Warping can be caused by overheating or uneven wear.
  3. Uneven Wear: If the rotor has uneven wear, it can cause the brake pads to wear down faster, reduce braking performance, and cause noise or vibration when braking.
  4. Thickness: If the rotor has worn down to its minimum thickness, it’s time to replace it. Driving with excessively thin rotors can compromise your vehicle’s braking performance and safety.

How to Maintain Your Brake Rotors

Regular maintenance can help extend the life of your brake rotors and prevent the need for resurfacing or replacement. Here are some tips for maintaining your brake rotors:

  1. Avoid Overheating: Overheating can cause the brake rotors to warp or crack. Avoid prolonged or hard braking, and use engine braking when driving downhill.
  2. Avoid Sudden Stops: Sudden stops can cause excessive wear on the brake pads and rotors. Try to break gradually and allow enough space between your vehicle and the one in front of you.
  3. Inspect Regularly: Inspect your brake rotors regularly for signs of wear or damage. Have them inspected by a professional technician if you notice any issues.
  4. Preventative Maintenance: Brake services are recommended every year or 20,000kms – whichever comes first. At AutoNiche, our technicians complete an inspection of the brake system. Brake services include removing dirt, dust, and other debris that accumulate on the brake pads, rotors, and in your vehicle’s brake fluid, which reduces their effectiveness.

“Where can I get a brake rotor replacement in Markham?”

At AutoNiche, we understand the importance of a well-functioning braking system. We are proud to perform brake replacement at our Markham garage. Our team of experienced mechanics can inspect and diagnose any issues with your brake rotors. We’ll also recommend the appropriate course of action, whether it’s resurfacing or replacement.

We use high-quality replacement parts and state-of-the-art equipment to ensure that your vehicle’s braking system is functioning at its best. This will help extend the life of your brake rotors and prevent the need for resurfacing or replacement. Whether you need routine maintenance or more extensive repairs, you can trust AutoNiche to provide reliable, high-quality service.

Contact us today at (905) 205-0228 or visit our website to schedule an appointment.

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