Car owners’ safety is bound up with the braking system where the brake pad works with the brake rotors. We have already covered brake pads in previous articles, today we will look at brake disc replacement and maintenance.
Signs that Warn You to Replace Your Brake Rotors
Driving miles/distance
It is the friction between the brake pad and the rotor that slows or stops the moving car. Thus, as the number of driving miles increases, the brake rotor gradually wears out.
However, the extent of wear differs depending on driving conditions and styles. On average, the front brake rotor should be replaced every 60,000 to 10,0000 kilometers, while the rear brake rotor typically lasts anywhere from 120,000 to160,000 kilometers. If your driving miles have reached these ranges, you should check the brake rotor.
Appearance
Observe the brake rotor surface to see if there is any abnormal wear such as scratches and grooves and whether the rotor thickness is inconsistent. These conditions can affect the braking effect. If similar conditions occur, the brake rotor needs to be replaced.
Abnormal braking
Vibration and deviation when you apply the brakes indicate that your vehicle’s braking system is in need of checking. If there are scratches and grooves on the brake rotors, it is time to replace them.
How to replace the brake rotors
If your brake rotors have been damaged and need to be replaced, you can try to replace them on your own. We have already shared how to replace the brake pads and replacing the brake rotor is similar.
First, jack up the vehicle and remove the tires, then you can see the disc brake. First remove the brake sub-pump fixed on the brake rotors, then loosen the bolts to remove the used brake rotors. After that, mount the new brake rotor and reinstall all the parts back. When replacing the brake rotor, you need to note the following things: 1) sand down the surface of the new brake rotor to ensure a good braking effect; 2) replace brake rotors at both sides to prevent deviation due to different braking effects.
Maintenance
Having good driving habits can greatly reduce the wear and tear on your brake rotors. Check brake pads regularly and change the brake pads in time to prevent them from becoming too thin which causes the brake rotor to wear out. Do not wash your vehicle immediately after driving at high speeds, preventing brake rotors from deforming due to the dramatic temperature change.
Worn-down brake rotors pose a risk to the driver. Knowing the wear indicators that tell you when and how to replace brake pads will help you drive safer. Contact us if you have any questions, LLEIDA can provide you with professional answers and quality products.