Do You Need to Resurface Brake Rotors?

Automotive brake jobs often include rotor resurfacing. Only precise measurements of the rotor thickness, however, can establish a genuine need for this procedure, according to AA1 Car.

Purpose

Automotive technicians and brake repair specialists resurface brake rotors to remove any unevenness that may develop through wear. Resurfacing can restore a smooth rotor surface that makes firm, uniform contact with brake pads for safe, quiet braking.

Considerations

Auto repair technicians must evaluate the thickness and condition of a rotor before deciding whether to resurface or replace it. AA1 Car recommends making a direct comparison to an identical rotor in new condition, weighing both rotors and using a micrometer to check thickness. Significant differences in weight or thickness call for replacing the rotor instead of resurfacing it.

Frequency

Many auto shops automatically replace a car's rotors every time they replace brake pads. General Motors, however, states that rotor resurfacing should occur only in cases of extreme scoring, corrosion or thickness variations. AA1 Car recommends measuring the rotor thickness with each brake pad replacement to determine the need for resurfacing.