Your brakes are a crucial component of your car’s operation and your safety while you’re on the road. Although you might not think about how your brakes work beyond the fact that your car slows when you press your brake pedal, knowing a little bit more about the components that make up your braking system can help you better understand how to care for your vehicle.
The primary components that make up your braking system are your brake pedal, brake fluid, brake lines, brake calipers and brake rotors. You probably know how to tell if your brake pads need to be replaced, but what about your rotors? Find out more about this important automotive component and determine whether it’s time to get your brakes checked out by a foreign auto repair shop in Conway, AR.
Brake rotor basics
When you press down on the brakes, your brake pedal engages the master cylinder in your vehicle. Then, brake fluid fills the brake lines, which divert fluid to the brake calipers. Then, your brake pads, which line your calipers, press down on the brake rotor and squeeze the surface, which will slow and eventually stop your wheels from turning. Your rotors are directly engaged by your brake calipers and pads when you stop your car, but that doesn’t mean that they won’t wear down and become damaged independently. It’s important to consider rotor replacement as a separate maintenance need from brake pad replacement.
Replacement recommendations
Ever car is different and every vehicle has different replacement recommendations for braking system components. For a basic guideline, consult your owner’s manual or look for manufacturer recommendations. The need for rotor replacement can vary widely and is largely dependent on the kind of vehicle you drive, what your driving habits are and what kind of conditions you usually drive in. Rotors may need to be replaced between every 15,000 and 70,000 miles, depending on various factors.
Other than mileage guidelines, you can also consider some other indicators that you need to replace your rotors. One of the primary signs that you need to replace your rotors is external imperfections. If you notice defects like bumps, grooves or cracks, it’s a good idea to bring your vehicle to a foreign auto repair shop in Conway, AR to have them inspected. Although these surface defects might not affect the operation of your rotors, they can indicate defects on the actual braking surface, which can be a problem. You should also look for signs of rust, since this can compromise the integrity of your rotors. Rust is especially common in areas that are humid or where roads are salted for ice melt during the winter.
Visit a foreign auto repair shop in Conway, AR
If you have concerns with the condition of your brake rotors and you think it might be time for replacement, bring your car in to the team of professional mechanics at Riverdale Automotive. We specialize in service, maintenance and repairs for European car models, and we have a fantastic team of experienced and knowledgeable technicians. Call us today to schedule an appointment!