Brake rotors are a crucial part of any disc brake system. They work together with your brake pads to slow down a turning wheel and bring it to a complete stop. You don't have to replace your rotors as often as the pads, but you'll want to know how much that costs when you do.
A pair of brake rotors will set you back anywhere from $300 to $700, or even more. Those prices typically include fresh brake pads as well. Aside from brand name and quality, the price you pay will also depend on the type of brake rotor machining involved.
Dealing with brake rotors can be a big thing if you’re a newbie, but don’t worry! You’ve come to the right place, as this guide will tell you everything you need to know about replacing them, from how much they cost to when you should get it done.
So, let’s get to it.
How Much Does It Cost to Replace a Rotor?
You can expect to pay anywhere from $300 to $700 or more for a pair of new brake rotors, including new brake pads. Rotors with drilled holes or slots will cost more, as they're designed to handle higher heat levels than regular ones.
As you’ll see later in this guide, it’s always an excellent idea to start using new brake rotors with fresh brake pads. Some mechanics might even give you a reasonable package price when changing the brake rotor and pads together.
What Factors Determine Brake Rotor Prices?
Like any other auto part, several factors affect brake rotor prices. Some of the more common factors include:
- The brake rotors’ brand
- Whether they’re brand-new or used
- Whether they’re genuine, OEM, or aftermarket parts
- The quality level (e.g., standard vs premium brake rotors)
Choosing the most expensive brake rotors won’t necessarily give you a better braking experience. So, consider all the factors above and choose one that closely matches your needs and budget.
Blank vs Drilled vs Slotted Rotors
As you shop around for new brake rotors, you’ll find several options. The rotors you see will be blank, drilled, or slotted. Another higher-end type also combines both drilled holes and slots onto the same rotor.
What’s the Difference Between the Three Brake Rotor Disc Types?
The brake rotor machining will determine how effectively those brake discs get rid of heat.
Keep in mind how your car brakes work: As you press on the brake pedal, the brake pads will squeeze on the brake rotor disc to slow your wheels down. That process creates a lot of friction and heat, making the rotors very hot.
Here’s how each type of brake rotor machining reacts to that heat:
- Blank rotors: The heat on these rotors will naturally dissipate from the metal surface to the air.
- Drilled rotors: The drilled holes on these rotors allow air to flow through the metal naturally, removing some of the heat as the wheel turns.
- Slotted rotors: Slots on the rotor actively drive hot air off the metal as they turn. That allows the rotor to cool itself much more effectively.
- Drilled and slotted rotors: Some rotors combine drilled holes and slots on the same unit. As you can imagine, manufacturers combine both types of brake rotor machining to maximise the rotor’s ability to get rid of extreme heat. That’s especially important in applications involving heavy braking, such as on heavy vehicles and high-performance cars.
Are Premium Rotors Worth It?
A premium brake rotor offers precise machining and uses better materials. For example, a premium rotor disc might have a higher steel or carbon content. They might even include an additional layer of anti-corrosion protection, as well.
Are premium rotors worth it? Well, that depends on how you plan to use them:
When Are Premium Rotors NOT Worth It?
Suppose you're an everyday driver, commuting to and from work and going on outings with the family occasionally. In that case, standard brake rotors from a reputable brand will serve you satisfactorily since everyday driving doesn’t abuse brake rotors as much.
In other words, you will not likely burden your car’s brakes, so there’s no need to pay extra for premium machining and materials
When Are Premium Rotors Worth It?
Premium rotors are much better at handling abuse than standard ones. So, if your vehicle typically works harder, premium rotors will be worth having.
For example, heavy vehicles like trucks will require higher-quality rotors because they’re much heavier and produce much more heat when braking.
The same is true for lighter vehicles travelling at high speeds, like race cars or other high-performance vehicles, because they too produce a lot of heat when braking at high speeds.
You can find new or used brake rotors at CarpartAU. The Marketplace has excellent deals on used car parts of all kinds, and you can submit a request for new or used parts through the Part Finder.
Plus, you don’t have to do a ‘brake rotor machining near me’ search when you can use the Directory to find automotive professionals in your area.
FAQs About Brake Rotors
Here are a few additional questions and answers about replacing your brake rotors:
1. Are the Brake Rotor and Brake Disc the Same?
Yes, brake rotors and brake disks (or 'discs') refer to the same thing, and mechanics use these terms interchangeably.
The brake rotor or disk is a crucial part of any disc brake system. It works with the brake callipers and calliper supports.
2. How Do I Know If My Brake Rotors Need Replacing?
Worn-out brake rotors tend to share similar symptoms to worn-out brake pads.
You’ll know your brake rotors need replacing by feeling, listening, and looking:
- Feel: A worn-out brake rotor will make your brake pedal vibrate when you press down on it. You may also notice that it takes your car longer than usual to stop from the moment you apply the brakes.
- Listen: Worn-out brake rotors also produce a sound when pressing on the pedal. Roll down your window and listen for a squeaking or screeching sound when braking.
- Look: Lastly, you can visually inspect your rotors for scoring or grooves on the metal surface.
3. Are Rotors Easy to Replace?
Yes, brake rotors are easy to replace if you know about fixing cars. In addition, you can perform the replacement at home without heavy-duty workshop equipment.
In short, the process involves raising the wheel off the ground and taking the brake system apart to replace the rotor.
4. Should You Change Brakes and Rotors at the Same Time?
Yes, you should change the brake rotor and pad simultaneously. First, it will provide the best possible braking performance when both components are in excellent condition. Secondly, it also prevents damage from one part to the other since both are equally brand-new.
By this, I mean that when you replace the brake rotor, you should always change the brake pad, but not the other way around. You don’t need to change the rotor every time you change the pad.
By Ray Hasbollah