Do You Have to Change Rotors When Replacing Brake Pads?

You've been driving your car for a while now, and you notice that it's time for a brake pad replacement. You might be wondering if you also need to replace the rotors. The answer is maybe, depending on the severity of the wear.

The driving condition influences the rotor wear. It depends on where you stay; your car will be exposed to different environments resulting in corrosion, dirt, or other particles that will cause your rotor to wear down over time. If you do a lot of driving in a harsh environment, you will likely need to replace your rotor more often than if you drove in ideal conditions.

So it depends on a lot of variables when it comes to deciding whether or not you need to replace your rotors, such as the quality of the rotors, driving habits, and conditions. Here we will discuss a few factors that will help you decide when it's time you need to visit an auto repair shop to replace your rotors.

What are Brake Rotors?

Brake rotors are metal discs that your car's brake pads clamp down on to stop the wheels from turning. In the standard brake system, when you press the brake pedal, it connects with the master cylinder, which will push the brake fluid into the caliper. It clamps down on the rotor and creates friction to stop your wheels and bring your car to a halt.

All rotors are not created equal. There are various types of rotors available in the market. It varies depending on whether you drive a sedan, SUV, truck, or high-performance car. Different rotor types are:

• Drilled rotors: It has small holes drilled into the surface to help keep them cooler.
• Slotted rotors: It has channels cut into the rotor surface to help remove brake dust and help keep them cooler.
• Blank & Smooth rotors: Most common type you will find on vehicles that feature smooth, uninterrupted surfaces.
• Drilled & Slotted: It is a combination of drilled and slotted rotors to enhance cooling and help remove brake dust.

Do You Have To Change Your Rotors After Replacing Your Brake Pads?

If you are experiencing brake fade, your mechanic will inspect both the pads and the rotors to determine the type of repair required. If the rotors are warped or cracked, you will be advised to replace them. If they are not too damaged, the mechanic may be able to machine or resurface them so they can be reused.

Resurfacing the rotor involves machining off a metal layer to create a smooth surface. While this may save some money, it is not always the best idea to do it. When a metal layer is removed, it reduces the rotor's ability to dissipate heat. The edges can wear down over time and cause brake vibration. The decrease in durability means you are more prone to rotor warping, cracking, and complete failure. So it's always best to replace your rotor when you are getting your brake pad repair.

What are Your Choices if Your Brake Pad and Rotor Need To Be Replaced?

When it's time for service, you have the option to replace just your brake pads, replace brake pads and resurface your rotors or replace your brake pads and rotors. Each has its benefits, so your choice should be based on your budget, how much life rotors still have, and your driving habits.

Replacing Brake Pads Only

You bring your car for brake service, and the mechanic finds out that your brake pads are worn down, but the rotors are still good. You have the option to just replace your brake pads. It's a more affordable option since you don't have to pay for rotor replacement.

Note that new pads might not fit perfectly on your old, worn-out rotors. The new pads will grip the rotor less effectively, and you may experience a bit of noise or vibration.

When fitting new brake pads on old rotors, you run the risk of causing uneven wear on the pads. This will cause your new pads to last shorter than they should.

Replacing Brake Pads and Resurfacing Rotors

When you have your brake pads replaced, the mechanic will check the thickness of your rotors. If enough metal is left, they can be resurfaced to create a smooth surface for your new pads. It is a feasible option if you are on a budget and don't want to replace your rotors.

However, resurfacing your rotors will shorten their lifespan. Over time, the rotors can warp or crack from the heat. New rotors can last up to 70,000 miles but resurfaced rotors will only last about half as long.

It isn't the only scenario; you could end up back in the auto garage near you in Glenpool for new brakes only a few months after having your rotors resurfaced. When you replace rotors, you need to replace your brake pads because the uneven wear will damage your new pads.

Replacing Brake Pads and Rotors Together

A complete service would include replacing both your brake pads and your rotors. It is the preferable option for several reasons. It helps components last longer, provides the best braking performance, and also saves you money in the long term.

Replacing the full brake set is quite safe, and it avoids any issues with your new pads not fitting properly on old, uneven rotors. New rotors are affordable when you evaluate the cost of machining your old ones only to replace them a few months later.

What is the Cost of New Brake Pads and Rotors?

When you replace your brake pads and rotors, the price will vary depending on the quality of parts you choose and the make and model of your car. Other services, like brake fluid flush, caliper replacement, or new brake lines, can add to the cost.

It's not a good idea to choose an auto repair shop solely on the price as you might end up with lower quality parts, or your brake repair might not last as long. In Glenpool, choose an auto repair shop, like Same Day Auto repair, that gives you a fair quote for good quality parts and service. High-quality brake pads and rotors will last more.

What To Anticipate After Changing Your Brake Pads and Rotors

After changing your brake pads and rotors, you should expect a substantial difference in braking performance. Your car will stop faster and smoother than before. While you might notice an odd smell after the service, because brake pads and rotors come with a coating to prevent rust, this should dissipate after a few brake applications.

If your brakes make noise after you've changed your brake pads and rotors, it could be that your brake pads aren't sitting properly. This can happen if corrosion or dirt has built up on either your caliper or rotor. Sometimes the brake pads might not be installed correctly, which will also cause noise. If your brakes are making any unusual noise, it's best to take your car back to the shop to have it checked out.

Any reduction in brake performance or dragging sensation while driving is a sign that something is wrong and you need to replace your brake fluid. You know your vehicle's brake system is working when you can press the pedal and stop without any issues.

If your brakes are acting weird, don't hesitate to take it to an auto shop and have it checked.

In Conclusion

You don't have to replace your rotors when you replace your brake pads, but it is the best option. It will help your components last longer and provide the best braking performance. If you are on a budget, resurfacing your rotors is an option, but keep in mind that they need to be changed sooner than if you had replaced them. If your brakes are making any unusual noise, it's best to take your car back to the shop to have it checked out.

At Same Day Auto Repair, we can replace your brake pads and rotors and have you back on the road in no time. We also offer different auto repair services to keep your car running smoothly. Schedule an appointment today!