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We don’t need to tell you how important your brakes are for your car’s functioning and performance as well as your safety and peace of mind. Your brakes are what stop you from plowing into the car in front of you at a red light, from hitting a pedestrian or animal, and from spinning out of control when you encounter a flat tire or blowout. That’s why it’s so critical to ensure that your brakes are in good working order at all times. Your brake rotors are a vital component in the brake system that must not be overlooked in routine maintenance. In this article, we’ll go over how to spot the signs of brake rotor failure and what you can do to restore your car’s reliability, function, and security.

What are brake rotors and what do they do?

Your entire brake system is comprised of several different parts and components that all work together in order to produce an effective stopping mechanism for your car. Brake rotors are a key component of the braking system, as they are kind of the foundation and glue of the entire system. The brake rotors are discs made of solid metal and are attached to the hub of the wheel. As the brake pedal is engaged, the brake calipers apply pressure to the brake pads, which in turn squeeze the rotors stopping the wheel from rotating. As you can imagine, if the calipers or brake pads wear out, it significantly increases the rate at which the rotors wear also.

Common symptoms of brake rotor problems

Brake troubles are one of the scariest automotive issues to encounter, as they directly influence your safety while driving. It is important to remain aware of the common symptoms of brake rotor deterioration, as your rotors are usually the last line of defense in brake system wear.

Intensely vibrating brakes

Because the rotors are directly adhered to your wheel hub, worn brake rotors can create intense vibration throughout your entire vehicle while driving or while applying the brakes.

Odd or concerning noises

If your rotors are wearing, they will likely produce concerning noises, like grinding, scraping, squealing, or screeching. Since the brake pads can also produce this symptom, it’s best to have the entire brake system thoroughly inspected.

Visible damage to the brake rotors

As your car accumulates wear, so do the rotors. Constant application of the brakes with worn brake pads can lead to warped rotors that are visibly scratched, grooved, or damaged.

What you can do to keep your brakes in good condition

To ensure your safety and make sure your brakes remain in good working condition throughout the life of your car, there are a few simple guidelines and tips you can follow so that your car gets the best care possible.

Adjust driving habits

Begin taking notice of how you apply your brakes; how frequently, evenly, abruptly, etc. you might be able to make adjustments to keep from premature rotor wear.

Follow your vehicle’s maintenance plan

It’s important to stay on top of the routine maintenance that your vehicle’s manufacturer recommends—this always includes diligent brake care and occasional rotor replacement.

Hire an automotive specialist

Certain cars like European imports require specialized care, and depending on the type of car you drive, it may be especially helpful to seek the assistance of a specialist who has particular knowledge and skill working with the kind of vehicle you drive. This will ensure that the parts and labor put into your car are sound and reliable.

Report concerning symptoms to your mechanic right away

It’s important not to wait to have problems addressed and treated in your car. If you notice any concerning symptoms, it may take a toll on your vehicle’s safety standards. Act proactively when it comes to brake care.

What we can do to help you

Here at Glenwood Foreign Car, although we take pride in all of our work, we especially take brake work very seriously. Your brakes are a direct line of safety that act as a barrier of protection from accidents, and there’s nothing more important to us than our clients’ safety on the road. Since 1977 we’ve been providing the areas of Upper Makefield Township, Yardley, Newtown, and Morrisville, PA, with specialized automotive care. Our 40 years of business have afforded us invaluable experience and knowledge working with European and Asian foreign cars such as Audi, BMW, Jaguar, Honda, Infiniti, or Lexus. If you’d like to schedule a brake inspection with one of our experts, please contact us right away.