Best Auto Repair News & Updates

As a driver, you need to keep up with the general maintenance of your car. One very important part of your vehicle that needs frequent checks and servicing is the braking system. Brake rotors are an essential part of this system and they work with brake pads to help bring your vehicle to a standstill.

 

When the rotors stop doing the work they were designed for, it can put you in an unsafe situation. Let's discuss what brake rotors are and how one can deal with the failure of this car part.

 

What Are Brake Rotors?

 

Brake rotors also referred to as brake discs are round metal parts fixed to each wheel of the car. When you step on the brake pedal, the brake pads squeeze the rotors causing friction that decelerates the car and brings it to a halt. Brake rotors will eventually wear out or develop issues and make it hard for your car to stop.

 

Ways You Can Know Your Brake Rotor Is Failing

 

One of the ways to spot a failing brake rotor is when you hear a loud squealing noise as you press the brake pedal. Sometimes, you might also notice that the car takes longer to stop than you expected. When the stopping distance of your car suddenly increases, it's a call for attention to the rotor and other braking system components. Another sign you can watch out for is the illumination of brake warning lights on your dashboard.

 

How to Fix Failed Brake Rotors

 

• Inspect the Rotors: First of all, you should take a look at your brake rotors to check if there are any visible damages. Pay attention to some signs like grooves, cracks, rust, and uneven wear on the surface. These signs can suggest that the rotors are damaged. To get a more accurate reading, one has to make use of a micrometer to measure the thickness of the rotor at various positions. It is advised to compare these measurements to the minimum thickness recommended in your car’s manual. If the thickness is below the recommended limit then the rotors have to be replaced.
• Check for Warping: Warped rotors are those that are twisted and they can lead to vibrations and uneven braking. To inspect warping, place a dial indicator on the rotor shaft and measure the amount of runout, or variation from a flat surface. Place the dial indicator on the suspension and turn the rotor to check for any unevenness. If the runout is higher than the manufacturer’s recommended standard, then the rotors are bent, and they need to be replaced.
• Replace or Resurface Rotors: You have two options to fix faulty rotors: replacement or resurfacing. Resurfacing is a process of machining a thin layer off the rotor’s surface to smoothen them. This can be done if the rotors are still above the minimum thickness, and the initial thickness is checked before the rotor is machined. However, if the rotors are very thin or if they are severely worn out, it is safer and wiser to replace them. New rotors will increase the performance and durability of the system.
• Regular Maintenance: To avoid future problems with your brake rotors you should maintain them properly. It is recommended that you stick to the time schedule given for your car’s servicing and have your brake checked by a trained technician. When you check the car often you will be in a position to see signs of wear and tear and deal with them before they become major issues. Also, it is recommended that you replace your brake pads and fluid as often as necessary to maintain the condition of the entire braking system.

 

 

Huron Automotive Can Ensure Your Safety With Quality Brake Repairs

When you hear odd noises or feel vibrations coming from your brakes, get your car to Huron Automotive. Our experts will solve the issue so that you can safely stop your car. We will address the problem effectively and at a low cost. Since we have two shops in Green Bay, you can go to the shop that is nearest to you to book your next appointment. Contact us at (920) 406-2860 or (920) 434-8000 and our experts will be there for you!