Service and Cost
Typical Cost
1. Parts Cost: - Standard Rotors: For most standard vehicles, the cost of a single brake rotor can range from $30 to $75 each. - High-Performance or Luxury Rotors: For high-performance or luxury vehicles, rotors can cost significantly more, ranging from $100 to $300 or more per rotor.
2. Labor Cost: - Labor costs can vary depending on the shop and location, but typically range from $100 to $200 per axle. This cost includes the time it takes to remove the old rotors and install the new ones.
3. Total Replacement Cost: - For a complete brake rotor replacement on one axle (two rotors), you might expect to pay between $150 and $400 for standard vehicles, including both parts and labor. - For high-performance or luxury vehicles, the total cost can range from $300 to $600 or more per axle.
4. Repair vs. Replacement: - In some cases, rotors can be resurfaced (also known as "turning" or "machining") if they are not too worn or damaged. This process typically costs between $10 and $25 per rotor. However, resurfacing is becoming less common as the cost of new rotors has decreased and because many modern rotors are designed to be replaced rather than resurfaced.
5. Additional Considerations: - It's often recommended to replace brake pads at the same time as rotors to ensure optimal braking performance. This will add to the overall cost.
Typical Service Procedure
1. Inspection: Before any replacement or repair, a thorough inspection of the brake system is conducted. This includes checking the brake pads, calipers, and rotors for wear and damage.
2. Brake Pads: Often, when rotors are replaced, the brake pads are also replaced. This is because worn pads can damage new rotors, and new pads ensure optimal braking performance.
3. Calipers: The brake calipers, which house the brake pads, are inspected for proper operation. If they are sticking or leaking, they may need to be repaired or replaced.
4. Rotor Resurfacing: If the rotors are not severely worn or damaged, they may be resurfaced (machined) to create a smooth surface. This process removes minor imperfections and extends the life of the rotors.
5. Rotor Replacement: If the rotors are too thin, warped, or damaged beyond repair, they will be replaced with new ones. This involves removing the old rotors and installing new ones.
6. Hardware Replacement: Sometimes, the hardware that holds the brake components together, such as clips, springs, and pins, may also be replaced to ensure everything functions smoothly.
7. Brake Fluid Check: The brake fluid level is checked, and if necessary, the fluid is topped off or replaced. This ensures that the hydraulic system operates effectively.
8. Test Drive: After the replacement or repair, a test drive is usually performed to ensure that the brakes are functioning correctly and there are no unusual noises or vibrations.
9. Torque Specifications: All bolts and fasteners are tightened to the manufacturer’s specifications to ensure safety and proper function.
10. Cleaning: The brake components are cleaned to remove any debris or grease that could affect performance.These steps help ensure that the brake system is safe, reliable, and performs well. It’s important to have brake work done by a qualified technician to ensure all components are properly handled.
What is a Brake Rotor and What Does It Do?
A brake rotor, also known as a brake disc, is a crucial component of a disc brake system, which is commonly used in modern vehicles. It is a flat, round metal disc that is attached to the wheel hub and rotates with the wheel. When the brake pedal is pressed, the brake caliper squeezes the brake pads against the rotor, creating friction that slows down or stops the wheel's rotation, thereby slowing down or stopping the vehicle.Brake rotors are typically made from cast iron, but they can also be made from composite materials, carbon, or ceramic, especially in high-performance or luxury vehicles. The design and material of the rotor can affect the vehicle's braking performance, heat dissipation, and overall durability.There are different types of brake rotors, including:
1. Solid Rotors: These are simple, flat discs and are often used in smaller or less performance-oriented vehicles.
2. Ventilated Rotors: These have a hollow space between two surfaces, allowing for better heat dissipation. They are commonly used in the front brakes of most vehicles.
3. Drilled Rotors: These have holes drilled through them to help dissipate heat and gases, and to improve performance in wet conditions.
4. Slotted Rotors: These have grooves cut into the surface to help remove debris and gases, and to improve braking performance.
5. Drilled and Slotted Rotors: These combine both features to enhance performance, especially in high-performance or racing applications.Proper maintenance of brake rotors is essential for safe vehicle operation. Over time, rotors can become worn, warped, or damaged, which can lead to reduced braking efficiency, noise, or vibration. Regular inspection and replacement, when necessary, are important to ensure optimal braking performance.
Signs your Brake Rotor needs to be replaced
Brake rotors are a critical component of a vehicle's braking system, and their failure can significantly impact braking performance and safety. Here are some common signs that a brake rotor may be failing:
1. Vibrations or Pulsations: If you feel vibrations or pulsations in the brake pedal or steering wheel when applying the brakes, it could indicate that the rotors are warped or unevenly worn. This can happen due to excessive heat or improper installation.
2. Squealing or Squeaking Noises: High-pitched noises when braking can be a sign of worn-out brake pads, but they can also indicate that the rotors are glazed or have developed surface irregularities.
3. Grinding Sounds: A grinding noise when braking usually means that the brake pads are worn down completely, and the metal backing is making contact with the rotor. This can cause significant damage to the rotor surface.
4. Visible Scoring or Grooves: Inspecting the rotors visually can reveal deep grooves or scoring on the surface. This can occur from metal-to-metal contact or debris caught between the pad and rotor.
5. Increased Stopping Distances: If you notice that your vehicle takes longer to stop than usual, it could be due to worn or damaged rotors that are not providing adequate friction.
6. Blue Discoloration: Overheating can cause the rotors to develop a blue tint. This discoloration indicates that the rotor has been subjected to excessive heat, which can lead to warping or reduced effectiveness.
7. Cracks: Small cracks on the rotor surface, often referred to as "heat checking," can develop from repeated heating and cooling cycles. Larger cracks are more serious and can lead to rotor failure.
8. Corrosion or Rust: While some surface rust is normal, excessive rust can weaken the rotor and affect its performance. This is especially a concern in areas with high humidity or where road salt is used.
9. Thickness Variation: Over time, rotors can wear unevenly, leading to variations in thickness. This can cause brake pedal pulsation and reduced braking efficiency.If you notice any of these signs, it's important to have your brake system inspected by a professional mechanic. Timely maintenance and replacement of brake rotors can prevent further damage and ensure your vehicle's braking system remains safe and effective.
How It Works
- Get a quote online or set-up a time to have your vehicle looked at.
- Pick time slots that work for you, easily, online.
- We will confirm appointments and send reminders.
- Our mechanics bring everything that is needed to you.
- All you have to do is provided a safe area for the work to be performed.
What we need from you
- A safe place to work on your vehicle
- No working on the side of busy roads
- No working on unstable or steep surfaces.
- We do not perform repairs during severe weather.
- Authorization from a property owner or management.
- Repair work done in a parking lot or at your requires permission.
- We do not do repairs in areas restricted by law.
Common Questions
Service Area
Our primary service area is greater Grand Rapids and includes Comstock Park, East Grand Rapids, Grandville, Kentwood, Walker, and Wyoming
Our secondary service area is provided by our Belding location and includes: Belding, Greenville, Ionia and the sorrounding areas.
Contact us if you have any questions about where we provide services.
