Brake Pads vs. Rotors
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Your vehicle’s brakes are an integrated network of several crucial components. When working in tandem, they help you to stop effectively and keep you out of harm’s way. However, as time passes, a few components tend to wear down, which is why routine brake inspections are important.
Integral components you should keep an eye on are the brake pads and the brake rotors. What’s the difference between these two mechanisms? Our Group 1 Mazda Denton team details the answer for Denton, Carrollton, and Flower Mound, Texas, drivers below.
What are Brake Pads?
You may be familiar with brake pads as you will need to have them replaced more often than rotors. What are they exactly? They are steel-backed plates that face the rotors. When the brakes are applied, friction will occur. This friction causes your vehicle to slow and stop effectively.
As mentioned, brake pads tend to need to be replaced more frequently than rotors as the constant rubbing and friction causes wear and tear. When worn down, your brake pads lose their effectiveness.
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When to Replace Brake Pads
To ensure your safety and the health of your vehicle’s brake system, you can look out for any of these warning signs of needed brake pad replacement:
- Screaming or grinding when braking
- Your steering wheel or brake pedal shakes when braking
- Longer stopping time
- Decreased brake performance
If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, schedule an appointment with us as soon as possible.
What are Brake Rotors?
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When to Replace Brake Rotors
Typically, brake rotors can last anywhere between 30,000 to 80,000 miles. This is a big jump in miles! However, if you experience any of these signs, it’s best to schedule brake service before additional damage is caused:
- Grinding noise while braking
- Pulsating or shaking while stopping
- Grooves or ridges on the surface of the rotor
- Visible rusting or thinning of the rotor
- Decreased brake performance
If you do need brake rotor replacement, be mindful that there are different types of rotors: blank & smooth, drilled, slotted, and drilled & slotted. Fortunately, it’s as simple as looking at the rotors to know which type they are. Our technicians will easily be able to identify the type on your vehicle!
Schedule Brake Pad or Rotor Service with Us!
At Group 1 Mazda Denton, our skilled and certified technicians can take care of your brake inspections or your brake pad and rotor replacements and repairs. So, if you’re a Denton, Carrollton, or Flower Mound, TX, driver that’s been experiencing braking troubles, you can schedule service with us!
Give us a call to schedule or make an appointment online today.