5 Signs You Need To Replace Your Brake Rotors and Pads

As we drive, we constantly use the braking system to slow down or come to a complete stop. This system is an essential part of driving and has multiple components, such as pads, calipers, and rotors. The brake rotors and pads play a significant role in the vehicle's ability to stop. Brake rotors and pads are the most common components that need to be replaced. With brake rotors being such an essential part of your vehicle, knowing the signs you need to replace your brake rotors and pads is vital. If these parts get damaged or wear down, they will need a replacement as soon as possible, so stay on the lookout for these warning signs. 

Squealing or Squeaking When You Stop

Odd sounds like squealing or squeaking could be signs your rotors and pads are aging poorly. When you brake, your vehicle shouldn’t make much noise, especially from the brakes. When your rotors rust or wear down after excessive use, the brake pads will grind against the rough surface of the rotors and wear down as well. Eventually, the ceramic or composite pad will wear away and the pad backing plate will make contact with the rotor as metal on metal, where the squealing noise originates. If you’re considering when to replace your rotors, hearing that sound is a good sign that it’s time. 

It Takes Longer To Stop or Slow Down

The brake rotor is responsible for giving the brake pads a surface to create friction that slows down or stops the vehicle. If your car takes longer to do either, it is a sign you need to replace your brake rotors and pads. The brake rotors’ surfaces have most likely worn or warped to the point where the brake pads grip, so the pads won’t be able to smoothly press against the rotors and create enough friction to slow the wheels down and prevent you from getting into an accident. The brake rotors have most likely lost the iron surfacing that the brake pads grip, so the pads won't create enough friction to slow the wheels down and prevent you from getting into an accident. When you start to notice these slowdowns, look into brake and rotor replacement. 

Turning the Car Takes More Effort

We use the brakes to slow down and make a controlled turn. Another sign you need to replace your brake rotors and pads is when you feel like you have less control over your turns, even when you step on the brake pedal. The brake pads cannot create enough friction to slow down, so you won’t have enough stopping power to make a safe turn. 

You See Grooves and Scratches on the Rotors

Another sign you need new rotors is actually seeing damage on them. When you change a tire or perform maintenance on your wheels, you may find grooves and scathed areas on the rotors. These irregularities on the surface of the rotor will cause damage to the brake pads and reduce surface area that make contact with the rotors. If you spot these symptoms of bad rotors, see a mechanic for the best car brake repair. 

You Feel Pulsation From the Car When Slowing Down 

When your rotors have grooves or are warped, the brake pads may bump against the uneven surface and cause pulsations felt through the vehicle. In general, pulsations felt in the steering wheel indicate the front brakes need replacement, while pulsations in the brake pedal indicate the rear brakes need replacement. Braking is a smooth function, so there may be a problem with your brake rotors if you feel any tremors or vibrations.

Brake rotors and pads are essential for any vehicle and need attention and care. We recommend scheduling regular service appointments for your car’s brakes. If you pay attention to any of these warning signs you need to replace your brake rotors and pads, you will have little to worry about on the road. If you want to learn more about how long rotors should last, read more of our blogs or book a service appointment at Advanced VTech in Buffalo Grove.