Rotors Are an Essential Part of the Brake System
Brake rotors are an essential part of the brake system, but do you know what they are? Last month we discussed brake maintenance, and briefly explained the purpose of rotors for your vehicle. Connected to each wheel, rotors help to slow the vehicle down. Rotors are on the front and back wheels, helping the vehicle to decelerate by creating friction.
As you may be able to tell, rotors are an essential part to driver and vehicle safety. Faulty rotors can make driving very dangerous.
Now that you know a little more about what brake rotors are, we’ll dive into the different types. We’ll also cover some of the signs you need new rotors, and rotor replacement versus repair.
Knowing the Different Types of Brake Rotors
Did you know there are different types of brake rotors? Nubrakes defines the four types of brake rotors, including:
Blank and Smooth. These are common for most passenger vehicles. Blank and smooth rotors are, as the name suggest, blank, smooth metal discs.
Drilled. Drilled rotors have holes drilled on them. Drivers living in wet climates may benefit from drilled rotors.
Slotted. Slotted rotors have long lines, or slots, on their surface. This type of rotor is commonly found on SUVs and heavier vehicles.
Drilled and Slotted. Drilled and slotted rotors increase performance with a combination of drilled holes and slots. These are commonly found on sports cars.
Depending on your vehicle, different types of rotors will work better than others. The mechanics at Bass Transmissions can repair and replace any type of brake rotors for foreign and domestic vehicles.
Can You Repair Rotors or Do They Need to be Replaced?
Some vehicle owners may wonder whether or not they can repair rotors, or if they always need replacing. Most of the time it depends on the situation, but in many cases, the rotors will need replacing.
According to The Drive, most brake rotors will last around 70,000 miles with the right care. However, there are some instances that will make rotors go bad faster, like climate or poor braking.
In some cases, it’s okay to just repair them. Over time the rotors may lose shape, and the mechanic can resurface them. However, this will only work a few times, as the rotors should be thick enough to handle the friction. Warping or thinning will require rotor replacement.
Signs It’s Time for Brake Rotor Replacement
Driving on bad rotors is very unsafe, and it’s important to know the signs that it’s time for replacement. There are a few tell-tale signs that it’s time for brake rotor replacement, including:
Squealing brakes
Shaking or vibrating when braking
Squeaking brakes
Rotors are too thin
Rust
Cracks or other damage
If you notice any of these problems, make an appointment with your mechanic right away. Bass Transmissions in Roanoke, VA, offers experienced brake rotor services for any make or model of vehicle. We’ll be happy to check over your brake system and make any needed repairs or replacement.
Faulty Brake Systems Will Not Pass State Inspections
As part of your VA state vehicle inspection, the mechanic will check over your brake system. Any missing parts or faulty safety features will end with a failure. This includes damaged or faulty brake pads, lines, rotors, and other parts of the brake system.
If you notice problems with your brakes, make sure to fix them right away. The cost of rotor repair or replacement varies between vehicles and type of rotors. In some cases, you may only need one or two replaced. In other cases, you may need all four.
“Can I Check My Brake Rotors At Home?”
You may wonder if you can check over your brake rotors at home before calling a mechanic. Depending on your vehicle, it may be easy to check over the rotors.
Vehicle owners can find rotors behind the wheel, held on by the axle. Looking under your vehicle, you may be able to see the rotor. Some vehicles are open, making it easy to see them. Some vehicle owners may have to take the wheel off to check their rotors.
Rotors should be smooth to the touch. If your rotors are ribbed or warped, then it’s time for maintenance. If there is visible rust or damage, this is another sign it’s time for service.
Bass Transmissions Can Replace Rotors and Perform Brake Maintenance
Bass Transmissions & Automotive Repair in Roanoke, VA, replaces rotors for foreign and domestic vehicles. Brake maintenance is something that many drivers do not consider until it’s too late. Count on our mechanics to properly repair rotors and other parts of the brake system. We have years of experience and can get your vehicle back in working order.
Along with brake rotors, we offer a variety of brake repair and maintenance, including:
Actuators
Anti-Lock Brake System (ABS)
Blacking Plate
Brake Assemblies
Brake Fluid
Disk Brakes
Brake Lines
Brake Pads
Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD)
Linings
Return Springs
Sensors
Wheel Cylinders
And More!
Contact us today for an appointment. We proudly serve vehicles throughout the Roanoke Valley and beyond.
Are you looking for a new, experienced mechanic? Call Bass Transmissions & Automotive Repair in Roanoke, VA, at (540) 345-8871 or follow us on Facebook for updates. We proudly serve vehicle owners throughout the Roanoke Valley. Reach out today for new brake rotors.
