Can I just replace brake pads and not rotors?
The short answer is: it depends. In some cases, you can replace just the brake pads without needing to replace the rotors. However, there are certain situations where replacing the rotors is necessary for proper brake system function and safety. Let's explore the details further.
When Can You Replace Just the Brake Pads?
Replacing only the brake pads can be an option if the rotors are still in good condition. This is often the case if the vehicle has relatively low mileage or the rotors have been recently replaced. The key factors to consider are the thickness and condition of the rotors. If the rotors are above the minimum thickness specification and do not have excessive wear, grooves, or uneven surfaces, you may be able to just replace the pads.
When Should You Replace the Rotors?
There are several situations where replacing the rotors is necessary, even if the pads still have some life left:
- The rotors are worn down below the minimum thickness specification. Continuing to use thin rotors can compromise braking performance and safety.
- The rotors have excessive wear, grooves, or uneven surfaces. These conditions can cause vibration, noise, and uneven pad wear.
- The vehicle has high mileage or the rotors have not been replaced in a long time. Over time, rotors can become warped or develop cracks, requiring replacement.
- You are performing a major brake system overhaul. It's generally recommended to replace both the pads and rotors together for best results.
Replacing the rotors ensures the brake system is functioning optimally and provides the safest, most reliable braking performance.
Factors to Consider
When deciding whether to just replace the pads or the entire brake system, also consider the following:
- Cost: Replacing just the pads is generally less expensive than replacing both pads and rotors.
- Maintenance history: If the vehicle has a history of frequent brake pad replacements, the rotors may be worn and need replacement as well.
- Driving conditions: Vehicles used for heavy towing, frequent braking, or in mountainous areas may require more frequent rotor replacement.
Ultimately, it's best to have a professional mechanic inspect the brake system and provide a recommendation based on the specific condition of your vehicle's components.
Can you change brake pads alone?
Yes, you can change brake pads yourself. The amount of work required varies depending on the vehicle you own and the type/style of brakes you need. Before you buy that first set of brake pads, you need to make a plan.
Can I get away with just replacing brake pads?
If your rotors aren't worn or damaged when you go in for brake service, you can probably get away with changing just the brake pads.
How much does it cost to turn rotors?
Rotor resurfacing costs vary based on location and vehicle type, but it typically ranges from $15 to $40 per rotor. Can I resurface rotors more than once? You can resurface rotors more than once, as long as they maintain the required minimum thickness after each resurfacing.
How long do brake pads last without changing rotors?
As a general rule, you should get your brake pads replaced every 10,000 to 20,000 miles to keep wear to a minimum. When it comes to your rotors, you have a bit longer. Your rotors should be replaced between 50,000 and 70,000 miles to keep your brakes in peak health.
How to tell if you need new rotors or just brake pads?
Kind of on the inside and the outside of the rotor. No big deal really I wouldn't be replacing. A brake rotor just for that. But then if you roll over to the inside of that rotor.
What are the symptoms of bad rotors?
Some common symptoms of bad rotors include vibration or pulsation in the steering wheel, high-pitched squealing noise when braking, shaking steering wheel, brake pedal pulsing, vehicle taking a long time to stop, loud bangs while braking, large edges on the outer part of the brake rotor, and scratch marks on the rotor.
What happens if you change brake pads but not rotors?
What will happen if you don't turn the rotors when you change brake pads? The answer to the question is that eventually the pads will run in a groove on the rotor, and can create chatter, excess heat and friction, causing premature and or uneven brake wear. The brake job has a lot more to to it though.
How do I know if my rotors are bad?
Some common symptoms of bad rotors include vibration or pulsation in the steering wheel, high-pitched squealing noise when braking, shaking steering wheel, brake pedal pulsing, vehicle taking a long time to stop, loud bangs while braking, large edges on the outer part of the brake rotor, and scratch marks on the rotor.
Is it okay just to replace brake pads?
If your braking system is in otherwise good condition, you can replace just the brake pads without issue.
Do you need to turn rotors when replacing brake pads?
You won't always have to have the rotors resurfaced when you install new brake pads. However, when you do, you'll be sure that your new pads have a completely flat and smooth surface to grip when after the installation.
