One of the main components of your car’s braking system is the rotor, which is located between the brake pads. On average, rotors will last anywhere between 20,000-60,000 miles.
What Are Brake Rotors?
On most vehicles, brake rotors are roughly the size of a dinner plate made of steel. This component is bolted to the wheel hub as the brake caliper sits on top. There will be a pair of brake pads seated on either side of the rotor in the caliper.
When the car brake is pressed down on, you ultimately force the master brake cylinder to compress brake fluid into the brake caliper. This pressure pushes the brake pads together with the use of the pistons in the caliper. The friction created between brake pads causes them to wear down over time. Pressing against the brake rotor will slow down the car and bring it to an eventual stop.
How Long Do Brake Rotors Last?
The whole brake system is designed to ensure the brake pads endure most of the punishment during routine stops out on the road. However, the nonstop friction will eventually wear down the rotors, reducing their ability to resist warping.
Drivers who are frequently on highways and gentle on their breaks can extend the life of these routers to about 60,000 miles. City driving with a lot of stop-and-go traffic can result in the rotors wearing out after 20,000 miles.
Newer cars tend to come with thinner rotors from the factory. This is because the rotors are made of steel and can be quite heavy overall. Manufacturers continue to try make the rotors lighter in order to improve the car’s fuel economy. This also means the rotors are more likely wear down faster, unfortunately.
How Long Do Brakes Last?
Depending on the conditions listed above, some brakes might last 25,000 to 30,000 miles while others stay strong through 50,000 or 60,000 miles. Having a professional do a thorough evaluation at least once a year can help you anticipate a soon-to-fail braking system.
When To Replace Rotors
There are a few noticeable signs that the time is now to replace your brake rotors, including the following:
- Inconsistent Braking Patterns: Worn-out rotors can result in longer breaking distances and inconsistent braking patterns overall.
- Pulsing Brakes: Warped rotors can cause you to feel a pulsing sensation when braking.
- Grinding Noises: Feeling or hearing grinding noises when braking are clear signs to replace the rotors.
- Visible Damage: Removing the wheels allows you to inspect the rotors. Damage to rotors or brake pads call for repairs/replacements.
DIY Vs Professional Rotor Replacement
Replacing the rotors will only add a short amount of time onto any brake repair task. However, this is a job best left to the auto care professionals. Contact the team at University Auto Repair in Flagstaff for more information today!
University Auto Repair In Flagstaff, AZ
When you need your car fixed, you need it fixed fast, and you need it fixed the right way. At University Auto Repair, we strive to provide the best and highest quality auto repairs in the region. We live here too, and we are dedicated to the safety, security, and convenience of drivers and car owners throughout the Flagstaff area. Contact our team today!
