csyvarth

Was told last time I had an oil change that my front brake pads would need replacing soon. Purchased the pads and took her in yesterday and was told I should replace the rotors each time I replace the pads. I had them replace the rotors but would like to know if there is any truth to this. Thanks for any info!

k24556

depends. if they are not damaged or grooved, then no. If you are pulsing when you hit the brakes then you probably have "hot spots" Some call this warping, but really it is a combo of patches of oxide and transferred pad material. They can be re-faced if not used for track.

Rotors are a composite of gray cast iron and steel. The steel part is the "hat", the part that bolts to the hub, and the cast iron is the friction face. The hat can "warp" but you have to crank some kind of heat into it and then put a side load, which really takes some doing

csyvarth

Thanks, the mechanic did mention hot spots, but he said regardless of that he recommends replacing the rotors anytime you replace the pads. He mentioned that the new pads and rotor will break in together, where as if you just install new pads on an old rotor you will get squeaking and other noise. I do remember back in the day you could reface the rotors and install new pads. I guess to have a proper working breaking system it was worth the extra $200.00 for the new rotors. Thanks for your help.

69SSC5

Optimally yes you should replace the pads and rotors together. With that being said, if your existing rotors are in good condition there is nothing wrong with properly prepping the existing rotors and installing new pads. I personally do not recommend or encourage resurfacing brake rotors (just my personal preference).

NukeC5

Thats a crock. If your rotors are not worn and are within spec, (assuming they are not damaged) you can do a break in procedure with new pads and have a properly functioning system. Ive done this many times in many vehicles.