How to Know if Your Brake Rotors are Bad

Watch for the Signs

As a vehicle owner, one of the most important safety features to maintain is your braking system. Without properly functioning brakes, your vehicle is a danger to yourself and others on the road. One key component of your vehicle's braking system is the brake rotors. However, many people may not know how to tell if their brake rotors are bad. In this blog, we will discuss the signs of bad brake rotors and why it's important to address the issue promptly. We highly recommend that you take your vehicle to a professional, such as Fadely's Auto Master in York, PA, for proper diagnosis and brake rotor replacement if needed.

Vibration or wobbling

One of the most evident signs of bad brake rotors is vibration or wobbling, especially when you apply the brakes. If you feel the steering wheel or brake pedal vibrating or shaking, it may indicate that the rotors are unevenly worn or have developed rough spots. This could be due to overheating or wear and tear over time. It's crucial to have your vehicle inspected by a professional mechanic to diagnose the issue and prevent further damage to your vehicle.

Pulsing or grabbing

If you feel your brakes pulsing or grabbing, it's a clear indication that your brake rotors may be warped or uneven. This could cause the brakes to apply unevenly, which could reduce the effectiveness of your braking system. It's also important to note that you may experience a lack of braking power, especially during hard braking. In this case, don't hesitate to take your vehicle to Fadely's Auto Master for a thorough inspection.

Noisy brakes

Generally, brakes are expected to produce some noise during braking, but if you hear a grinding, squeaking, or scraping noise, it's a sign of something more serious. This could indicate that your brake pads are worn out or that there's metal-to-metal contact between the pads and rotors. The latter is especially concerning since it can cause damage to the rotors and could even result in complete brake failure.

Visual inspection

One of the best ways to determine if your brake rotors are bad is through a visual inspection. You can do this by peeking through your wheels and looking at your brake rotors. If the rotors have grooves, cracks, or deep scratches, it's time to replace them. Another important aspect to check is the thickness of your brake rotors; if they're below the manufacturer's recommended minimum, it's time for replacements.

Lingering brake smell

Lastly, if you smell burning or a strong odor after applying the brakes, it could indicate that your brake rotors are seriously overheated. This could be due to excessive braking or hard braking, and it's important to get your brakes checked immediately to avoid potential brake failure or damage to other brake components.

In conclusion, taking care of your brake rotors is essential for the performance and safety of your vehicle. If you experience any of the signs mentioned above, take your vehicle to Fadely's Auto Master, where their team of certified technicians will diagnose the issue and provide a solution that will keep you safely on the road. Remember, the longer you wait to address brake rotor issues, the more damage it can cause, resulting in more costly repairs down the road. Stay safe and prioritize your braking system's maintenance.