Resurfacing vs. Replacing Rotors: An Overview
- Rotors are the metal discs brake pads clamp down on when you hit the brakes.
- Over time, rotors can become chipped, cracked, warped, or thinned out and must be replaced or resurfaced.
- Resurfacing is the process of smoothing the damage until the surface is even.
- If a rotor has an unsafe level of thinness, the best approach is to replace it with a new component.
The Choice Between New Rotors vs. Resurfacing the Ones You've Got
Resurfacing rotors is a standard maintenance practice, but is it better to simply replace the damaged disc? Before we discuss whether you should resurface or replace your rotors, we need to answer the question, "What does "resurfacing rotors" mean?
Your rotor discs are attached to your wheels – when you hit the brakes, pads are activated to clamp against the rotors, slowing the wheels until you come to a full stop. Over time, rotor discs can develop damage that compromises their ability to produce friction against brake pads. The decision between resurfacing rotors vs. replacing worn rotors comes down to how bad the damage is, how thin they are, and your driving needs.
Resurfacing Rotors vs. Replacing
Is resurfacing rotors bad for them? The answer to this question depends solely on the state of the rotors. There is a minimum thickness that is considered in the safe zone, so if a rotor is too narrow to resurface, the best solution is to replace it.
There are more benefits that come with replacing a rotor, including:
- Time: At a certified shop, replacing a brake rotor is a quick and easy procedure.
- Cost-Effectiveness: Often, the cost of replacing a rotor rivals the cost of resurfacing it.
- Improved Safety: You should never neglect your braking system, as it is the single most important factor in your car's safety. Brand-new parts have a longer shelf life than resurfaced parts.
- Enhanced Braking Performance: If you purchase high-end performance rotors at BrakeTimeUSA, you give yourself the gift of upgraded braking.
As a popular brake parts seller, BrakeTimeUSA strives to provide helpful resources for information on braking systems. For those considering installing a new rotor at home, check out our rotor replacement guide for a comprehensive step-by-step process.
How Do You Know It's Time for a Brake Rotors Resurfacing Service?
The most common bad rotor symptoms include:
- Unusual Vibrating: If your rotors are warped, they may produce a shaky, vibrating sensation every time you hit the brakes.
- Strange Sounds: A squealing noise or other unusual sounds every time you brake may indicate rotor damage.
- Hindered Performance: Decreased braking performance is another sign you should inspect your rotor discs.
- Visible Damage: Finally, deterioration will often be visible on the rotors.
What is resurfacing rotors all about? Your discs need an even surface for maximum friction when they clamp against the pads – resurfacing can smooth out kinks, grooves, and other damage, giving the brake pads more traction to slow the vehicle. It's not a permanent fix, but it can buy you plenty of time before you swap out the rotors for new ones. A succinct answer to "What does resurfacing rotors do?" is that it acts as a Band-Aid or temporary fix for a larger issue.
How Do You Properly Maintain Your Brakes?
Brakes are durable systems built to last, but they won't last forever. You can prevent early wear and tear by developing healthy driving habits. Avoid the following behaviors as much as possible:
- Braking suddenly or heavily
- Driving with heavy cargo on board too often
- Neglecting brake inspections
Another smart decision you can make for your brakes is choosing a high-quality retailer such as BrakeTimeUSA for rotor components. We have a wide selection of top-notch products for many makes and models. Find your perfect match in our catalog today.
The Verdict on Resurfacing Rotors vs. Replacing Them
If you're stuck on the question, "Is resurfacing rotors necessary?" that choice comes down to the current condition of the components and your preferences. Resurfacing brake rotors is only ideal when the disc is intact and thick enough to withstand the procedure safely. If a rotor is warped or damaged in any way, the best thing to do is replace it.
If you have any questions about the pros and cons of resurfacing rotors instead of replacing them, don't hesitate to contact our support team – we're here to answer your questions and guide you toward the product you need.
BrakeTimeUSA performance rotors, best for dissipating heat after braking, are for drivers who want to take their stopping power to the next level. Shop our BrakeTimeUSA premium products for high-quality parts, whether you have a performance model or daily driver.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you resurface rotors?
It is possible to resurface rotors at home with the proper tools, such as a brake lathe, but unless you have the expertise, we recommend scheduling an appointment with a professional service center. BrakeTimeUSA also offers a wide variety of high-level rotor replacements if yours have become irreversibly worn or warped. It feels great to start fresh with a brand-new, high-quality component for your braking system!
Can you resurface drilled and slotted rotors?
Resurfacing rotors with holes and slots can be even more complicated than with regular rotors. Drilled and slotted rotors don't have as much surface area to work with, as they're designed to release trapped heat, moisture, and debris quickly. If you're on the fence between resurfacing rotors vs. replacing them, it may be more cost-effective to purchase new premium components from our BrakeTimeUSA online shop.
Is turning rotors the same as resurfacing?
Yes, turning rotors is the same as resurfacing rotors. Both refer to the process of evening out the face of a rotor if it has become too bumpy or warped. Strange noises or vibrations while braking are signs that you should get your brakes inspected. Resurfacing can help, but if the wear and tear has thinned out the rotor to an unsafe degree, it might be time for a replacement.
