Brake Rotors Replacement Cost

You know how a car starts, but do you know how it stops? Yes you apply brakes, but what after that? How do brakes make the wheels halt in seconds? The brake rotors play a major role here. When you apply brakes, the brake rotors, also known as brake discs, fix on the brake pads and cause the wheels to stop rotating, which makes the car stop. Brake rotors are aligned on the same axis as that of the wheels. When a brake pedal is pressed, a hydraulic mechanism is activated, whereby rotors clamp down on the brake pads which stop the rotational motion of the wheels. So braking of speed hugely depends on the functioning of the brake rotors in the vehicle. The strength of these rotors depends on their design and composition. They are made of casting iron and have high tensile strength. Over time, due to wear and tear, brake rotors might need repair or even replacement.

When to Replace Brake Rotors?
Wearing down of brake rotors and presence of hard spots on them are indicators to brake rotor replacement. Resurfacing rotors may also cause hard spots on them. So confirm the reason from a car repair professional before you decide on replacing the rotors. If you hear a squealing sound or a loud noise on applying brakes, it could be time you get the brake rotors replaced. Excessive braking and driving downhill generate heat in the rotors. Larger the rotors, greater the heat they can take. Brake rotors may reach a point when they cannot sustain the rising temperature and the brakes fail. So, it's important to ensure that the brake rotors of your vehicle are of the right specifications. If not, get them replaced.

Replacement Cost of Brake Rotors
As far as the brake rotors replacement cost is concerned, a single brake rotor will cost you anywhere between $35 to $75, each depending upon type and material. However, it is always advised to replace brake rotors in pairs. For instance, if you need to replace the rotor for the front left wheel, you must also replace that of the front right one as well and vice versa. And therefore, many car part stores sell brake rotors in pairs only, which may cost you around $100 to $200 per pair, along with some accessories. Most of the rotors have a replacement assistance kit and user's manual along with them, so that this job can be performed by anyone. But, as the brake is a very vital component of a car, I would advise you to take professional help. If you happen to go to a car repair center, brake rotor replacement cost may swell to more than twice the cost of rotors, as labor charges and other hidden charges may apply.

Another factor that may elevate the brake replacement cost will be brake pads replacement or replacement of brake calipers. In most cases, these two brake components need replacement more frequently than brake rotors.

Things to Check before Replacing Brake Rotors
The first and most important thing to check is the thickness of the rotors. When the rotors are too thin, they tend to overheat during the braking process. This can cause the pads to overheat, further leading to discoloration and warping of rotors. Moreover overheating can make the brake fluid boil, thus hampering the braking system of the vehicle. If the brake rotors are too thin (less than rotor minimum thickness), it is best to get them replaced. If the rotors are within specifications, resurfacing them can help, saving you of the cost of rotor replacement. Next, check for scarring of rotors. If they are warped or scarred, it is a good idea to get them replaced.

This gives a complete account on brake rotors replacement and the costs involved. Hope it proves beneficial for you and your car. Brakes, as you know are an important part of your vehicle, and brake rotors, an 'essential organ' of the braking system. So maintain them well and replace them when need be.