How do I know if I have brake pads or rotors?
Understanding the condition of your vehicle's braking system is crucial for your safety on the road. Brake pads and rotors are essential components that work together to ensure effective stopping power. However, distinguishing between issues related to brake pads and those related to rotors can be challenging. In this article, we will explore the signs and symptoms that can help you identify whether your vehicle is experiencing problems with its brake pads or rotors.
Signs of Worn Brake Pads
Brake pads are designed to create friction against the rotors to slow down or stop your vehicle. Over time, they wear down and need to be replaced. Here are some common indicators that your brake pads may be worn:
- Squeaking or Squealing Noise: If you hear a high-pitched squeaking sound when you apply the brakes, it often means that the brake pads are worn and need replacement.
- Grinding Noise: A grinding sound can indicate that the brake pads are completely worn down, and the metal backing is making contact with the rotor, which can cause further damage.
- Reduced Braking Performance: If you notice that your vehicle takes longer to stop or the brakes feel less responsive, it may be a sign that the brake pads are worn out.
- Vibration or Pulsation: If you feel a vibration in the brake pedal when applying the brakes, it could indicate uneven wear on the brake pads.
Signs of Worn Rotors
Brake rotors are the discs that the brake pads clamp down on to create stopping power. If rotors become warped or damaged, they can affect braking performance. Here are some signs that your rotors may be the issue:
- Vibration or Pulsation: Similar to worn brake pads, if you feel a pulsation in the brake pedal, it could indicate warped rotors.
- Grooves or Scoring: Visually inspecting the rotors can reveal grooves or scoring marks, which indicate that they may need to be resurfaced or replaced.
- Noise: A grinding noise when braking can also indicate rotor issues, especially if the brake pads are in good condition.
- Brake Warning Light: Some vehicles have a brake warning light that may illuminate if there is an issue with the braking system, including the rotors.
Conclusion
Regular maintenance and inspection of your vehicle's braking system are essential for safe driving. If you notice any of the signs mentioned above, it is advisable to have your vehicle inspected by a professional mechanic. At Kevin's Autos, we are here to help you diagnose and resolve any brake-related issues, ensuring your vehicle remains safe and reliable on the road.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need new rotors or just pads?
There is absolutely no need to replace rotors with pad changes. This is absolutely not a standard service procedure. Rotors only need to be replaced if they are warped, damaged, or thinner than the recommended minimum spec.
How to tell if it's brake pads or rotors?
The only way to know for sure is to check the pads visually and check the rotors both visually and by measuring. Depending upon your wheel style, you may be able to do both without removing the wheel.
Can I put new pads on bad rotors?
If new brake pads are put onto a vehicle with damaged rotors, the pad won't properly contact the rotor surface, reducing the vehicle's stopping ability. Deep grooves that have developed in a worn rotor will act as a hole-puncher or shredder and damage the pad material as it is pressed against the rotor.
How much do new rotors cost?
Rotors usually cost between $30 and $75 each, and labor for this service typically adds $150 to $200 per axle.
How do you check brake pads without removing the wheel?
If your car has alloy wheels with wide spaces between spokes, you can reach the caliper and brake pads without lifting the car. If you have steel wheels, alloy wheels with small spaces between spokes, or wheel covers, you need to lift the car to access the back side of the caliper.
How do you tell if your 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.
How much does it cost to replace rotors?
Rotors usually cost between $30 and $75 each, and labor for this service typically adds $150 to $200 per axle.
What wears out first brake pads or rotors?
For many vehicles, the front brake components wear out before the back ones, especially the brake pads.
How often should rotors be replaced?
between 50,000 and 70,000 miles
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.
What are the signs of worn brake pads?
What are the signs that you need to change your Brake Pads and Rotors?
- Squeaking or Squealing Coming From Brakes.
- Grinding Sound When Braking.
- Vibration When Braking.
- Taking Longer To Stop.
- Brake Pad Indicator Light Comes On.
- Your Brake Pads Appear To Be Thin.
