Why do I need new rotors?

You have just been told your brakes need to be replaced. Can’t you just replace the pads?

Sometimes, sure, but often the rotors need replacing as well. Brakes work by the caliper pressing the pad into the rotor (or drum, but that’s another story). The key to safe, effective braking is perfect contact between the pad and rotor.If we have recommended replacement, the rotors are either warped or rusted or grooved from the old pads. New pads need a nice, smooth surface to press against. Turning rotors takes the tech more time (costing you more money) and you end up with a thinner rotor. A thinner rotor doesn’t dispel heat efficiently so is likely to warp. So if your rotors are worn, we recommend replacing, rather than turning them.