technician measuring brake rotor

Brake Rotor Repair & Replacement

Go against the grind.

Making sure your car’s brakes are working properly is a no-brainer. But instead of waiting until you have a brake problem, it’s wise to regularly check and maintain your brakes. Brake rotors are an essential component of your braking system that wear down over time. In addition to helping keep you safe, regular brake checks and maintenance can help you avoid more expensive problems down the road.

How do brake rotors work?

Brake rotors are discs, normally made of iron, that spin on the hub of your car’s wheels as they turn. When you step on the brake pedal, your brake pads come in contact with the rotors and create friction, which causes your car to stop. As rotors become worn or warped, they'll eventually need to be resurfaced or replaced.

What’s the difference between brake pads and brake rotors?

Brake pads are the other critical part of your car’s braking system. Two brake pads clamp down on each rotor as your car is slowing or stopping. Generally, brake pads need to be replaced more frequently than brake rotors. It’s essential both your brake pads and rotors are in good working condition at all times.

How do you know if your brake rotors need to be replaced?

If you notice any of these signs your rotors need attention, bring your vehicle in and our team will measure the thickness of your rotors in order to compare them to OEM (original equipment manufacturer) recommendations.

  • Suspicious sounds – You may hear a squeaking, squealing or grinding noise when you apply the brakes.

  • Vibration – You might feel vibration in your steering wheel or brake pedal when you apply the brakes.

  • Visual indicators – If you can see your brake rotors, a blue tint or grooved surface indicates they need to be checked.

How long do brake rotors last?

Like many things on your car, it depends. But a good rule of thumb is somewhere between 30,000 and 70,000 miles. If you do most of your driving in city traffic, which means you probably do a lot of braking, your rotors will likely need replacing sooner than if drive mostly on the interstate.

If you’re concerned about your brake rotors, just schedule an appointment and the experienced technicians at Express Oil Change & Tire Engineers will be happy to check them out.