When you depress the car’s brake pedal, the braking system causes calipers to push brake pads against a large metallic disc. This disc, known as a brake rotor, is part of the wheel hub of the car and spins along with the wheel. When the rotors are gripped by the brake pads, the vehicle is forced to slow down.
That’s brake rotors in a nutshell – a crucial piece of the braking system and a critical component to a vehicle’s performance and safety.
The process of braking causes a lot of friction and heat and both the brake pads and rotors will wear over time. While regular servicing should pick up any issues with these components, there are symptoms that, during everyday driving, are indications that the rotors may need to be inspected and maintained or, perhaps, be replaced.
VIBRATION
When rotors are warped or very worn, the contact between it and the brake pad can be imperfect. This sketchy contact results in vibration and shaking that can be felt through the brake pedal, steering wheel and even the car body.
NOISE
Worn brakes are noisy and persistent squealing or squeaking is a sure sign of problems. A grinding or scraping sound indicates severely worn rotors and pads.
VISIBLE DAMAGE
A healthy brake rotor will appear almost smooth both to the eye and to the touch. This surface ensures good contact with the brake pads. As they wear, however, rotors can become heavily scored and grooved and that contact can be impaired.
STOPPING DISTANCE
The surest sign that something is wrong with the braking system is its overall performance. Worn, warped and damaged rotors will compromise the system’s ability to stop the car in an acceptable distance.
WILL I NEED TO GET THE ROTORS REPLACED?
This depends on the wear and tear on the rotor. In many cases, the discs can be ‘machined’, which means they can be put through a process that will smooth out the damaged contact surface and make them usable and safe once more. However, if the damage is too severe, or the warping is too great, then a replacement will be required. Your qualified mechanic or brake specialist will be able to advise you of the best course of action.
What is most important, of course, is that you don’t ignore brake system issues. Your safety and the safety of your passengers and other road users depends on the ‘health’ of your car. If you have any concerns, you should make time to get your car examined by a qualified mechanic. As the saying goes, it is better to be safe than sorry.
23 Nov 2019
Please note the information contained on this page is general in nature and does not take into account your specific needs or circumstances. You should consider whether the information is appropriate to your needs, and where appropriate, seek professional advice.