Improving Your CarImproving Your Car

One of the most important systems on your vehicle is the braking system. A series of components work together to help bring your vehicle safely to a stop each time you press on the brake pedal. One of these components is the brake rotor.

The rotor is a large disc of metal that is located under each of the rear tires of your car. When you press the brake pedal, brake pads clamp down onto the rotors to help stop the wheels from turning. Being able to identify when it's time for brake repair services is critical to the safety of your vehicle.

Squealing Brakes

One of the first signs that you might notice when your brake rotors need to be repaired is a squealing sound coming from the rear of your vehicle when you apply the brakes. This noise is often the result of warped brake rotors. When the brake pads clamp down onto the rotors, friction and heat are generated.

Over time, the flat surface of the rotors can become warped as a result of exposure to this heat and friction. Warped brake rotors can affect your stopping distance, placing you at risk of being involved in an auto accident. Have your rotors resurfaced when you hear your brakes squealing to maximize the performance of your braking system.

Visible Damage

If you look closely at your brake rotors, you can spot signs of visible damage. Score marks, scratches, and gouges that will negatively affect your vehicle's braking abilities will be visible on the surface of your rotors. These types of damage are usually caused by brake pads that have worn thin.

As the cushioning material between the brake pad's bracket and the rotor deteriorates, metal begins scraping against metal. This can seriously damage your rotors. Most scratches or gouges can be eliminated through resurfacing, but deep scratches might result in the need to replace your rotors for optimal braking performance.

Vibration

Another symptom that might indicate your brake rotors have warped is a noticeable vibration when your press the brake pedal. If the brake rotors has warped out of shape, the brake pad doesn't have a smooth surface to clamp onto.

Vibrations are created as the brake pads skip over warped areas of the rotors in an effort to bring your vehicle to a stop. You will feel these vibrations in both the foot you use to press the brake pedal and the steering wheel. Replacing or resurfacing your warped rotors should eliminate any vibrations you feel when braking.