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Types of Brake Services

For most brake systems, there are three main brake replacement options. We’ll walk you through the differences between the three and why you would choose one over another.

1. Brake Pad Replacement

It is common for customers to come across an advertisement that offers an extremely cheap brake service when comparing brake pricing and services. While this might seem like a lucky find, proceed with caution. There is a possibility that the auto repair shop is performing what the automotive industry calls “pad slaps.” Performing a pad slap is not the same as performing a complete brake job and may not be the best option in the long run.

The service involves replacing brake pads and reusing the old brake hardware and brake rotors (brake discs). A stand-alone replacement of a brake pad is the bare minimum brake service available, and it’s not something we recommend or perform at Calibey's Oakhurst Auto.

Brake pads and rotors work together to bring your vehicle to a halt. As the rotors age, they can develop a hardened surface known as “glaze” along with distinctive wear patterns. Installing new pads on old rotors that don’t match can lead to brake noises, vibrations, and early deterioration of the new pads, which usually requires a return trip to the shop.

At Calibey's Oakhurst Auto, we don’t recommend just getting the brake pads replaced. It’s our goal to get you back on the road safely, and putting a Band-Aid or quick fix on your brakes isn’t the solution.

2. Brake Pad Replacement & Rotor Resurfacing

Resurfacing the brake rotors and replacing the brake pads are middle-of-the-road brake replacement options.

Resurfacing (also called “turning “or “machining”) involves removing a layer from the front and rear surfaces of your rotors. As a result, the brake pads are pressed against a new, smoother surface.

A resurfacing job eliminates any grooves, pits, or hotspots that may cause problems in the future. Additionally, it allows the brake pads to wear evenly and optimally.

Keep in mind, however, that resurfacing decreases the thickness of the rotors. Heat builds up faster and wears down faster on thinner rotors, resulting in warped rotors, which is something we definitely do not want and causes vibrations when using the brakes.

Ultimately, resurfacing rotors when you install new brake pads is a middle price point and a good compromise if you don’t want to spend more money on new rotors but there can not be a guarantee against pulsations or vibrations from warped rotors.

3. Brake Pad Replacement & Rotor Replacement

The most complete brake service includes fully replacing brake pads and rotors, which gives you better stopping power and more fade resistance.

Like brake pads, brake rotors wear out over time. Brake rotors must meet a certain thickness requirement to be considered safe. If they are thinner than the manufacturer’s recommended thickness, then you need to replace your brake rotors immediately.

Some vehicles always require new pads and rotors due to the warped rotors and therefore cannot be resurfaced. In fact, 99% of German cars are this way. The rotors on German cars are made from a softer metal, so by the time their pads wear down, the warped rotors are already below what we call the “discard thickness.” This means that the rotor has already reached the minimum acceptable thickness and must be fully replaced.

However, if you’re on a tight budget, as long as your brake rotors are above the minimum recommended level and the vehicle manufacturer does not require that the rotors be replaced when new brake pads are installed, resurfacing the rotors might be an acceptable approach.

But for optimum brake performance and safety, always choose to replace your brake rotors when replacing your brake pads.

Need a Brake Replacement?

Bring your vehicle to Calibey's Oakhurst Auto for all your brake repair and replacement needs. We’ll inspect your brakes and help you figure out what brake service is best for your car and your budget! Schedule a visit today!

Do You Have to Replace Rotors When Replacing Brake Pads?

Choosing the right brake service for your car can be overwhelming-and that’s before you consider the price! When you are considering having your brakes serviced, there several questions you should ask:

When you replace the brake pads, do you need to change your rotors as well?
What’s the difference between resurfacing and replacing your rotors?
Do you have to get both axles done at the same time?
Why can’t you go just a little bit longer before getting the brakes replaced?

We’ll discuss the different options and find out what’s most suitable for your vehicle.

First things first – Safety. The most important consideration before discussing anything else is your and others safety on the road. If you can’t stop or slow down when you need to, you put yourself and others at severe risk. Therefore, it is never a good idea to wait until your brake system needs to be repaired or replaced.

When Do I Need New Brakes?

When it comes to car maintenance items, services such as oil changes and tire rotations are fairly straightforward to determine when they should be performed. Brake repair, however, is a bit tricky since there isn’t a standard mileage for service. If you Come to Calibey's Oakhurst Auto, We check your brakes on every oil change!

Industry experts recommend that you replace your brakes every 20,000–60,000 miles. That’s a big gap! So how are you supposed to know when your brakes need to be replaced and what will be the brake pad and rotor replacement costs?

Two of the most common signs your vehicle needs brake work are squealing noises and steering wheel vibrations. You should also look out for grinding sounds, a spongy brake pedal, pulling to one side when braking, and longer stopping distances.

What Are the Brake Pad and Rotor Replacement Costs?

Depending on the type, make and model of your car, prices can vary, you should always get an estimate from a reputable auto repair shop to get an accurate estimate. It’s important to get your brakes checked promptly if you notice any signs of wear. It will save you from unnecessary replacement costs and ensure your safety on the road.

Understanding these signs can help you assess the condition of your brakes and estimate the brake pad and rotor replacement costs that might be involved.

Once you know your brakes need attention, it’s time to get a brake inspection and figure out which brake parts need to be replaced.

WHY YOU SHOULD REPLACE BRAKE PADS AND ROTORS AT THE SAME TIME

Choosing to replace both brake pads and rotors at the same time provides numerous benefits, such as improved performance, cost efficiency, and overall driving satisfaction. Ensuring these essential components work together seamlessly is crucial for maintaining a dependable and secure braking system in the long run.

OPTIMAL PERFORMANCE
Installing new brake pads on worn rotors or vice versa can compromise braking efficiency. Simultaneous replacement ensures that both components complement each other, optimizing friction and responsiveness for effective braking. Improved performance means quicker response times, especially in emergency situations.

UNIFORM WEAR
Replacing only one component, either brake pads or brake rotors, can lead to uneven wear on the remaining older part. This imbalance may cause the vehicle to pull to one side during braking, resulting in an inconsistent–and potentially unsafe–driving experience. Simultaneous replacement ensures that both components have a similar level of wear, minimizing vibrations and providing a smoother ride.

COMPONENT LONGEVITY
Matching the lifespan of brake pads and rotors by replacing them at the same time ensures that both components age uniformly. This balanced wear pattern contributes to an extended overall lifespan of the braking system. Replacing only one component may expose the new part to the wear patterns of the old one, potentially leading to premature wear and reducing the longevity of the braking system.

COST EFFICIENCY
While replacing brake pads or rotors individually might seem like a cost-saving approach, it can often lead to additional labor charges down the road. Simultaneous replacement eliminates the need for separate installations, saving on labor costs in the long run. Unmatched components may lead to complications and additional costly repairs. By replacing brake pads and rotors at the same time, you minimize the risk of these issues and ensure a more cost-effective solution.

SIGNS THAT IT MAY BE TIME TO REPLACE YOUR BRAKE PADS

Signs of worn or damaged brake pads include:

SQUEALING SOUNDS
High-pitched squealing could indicate that your brake pads are worn. When you hear squealing sounds from your brakes, it’s important to address the situation promptly. Timely inspection is crucial to ensure that brakes are in good condition and to prevent damage by replacing pads before metal exposure occurs.

GRINDING SOUNDS
Grinding sounds may indicate fully worn brake pads, which can lead to rotor damage and reduce braking effectiveness. Immediate replacement is essential to prevent further complications and maintain optimal stopping power.

VIBRATION WHEN BRAKING
Brake vibrations may result from worn pads or damaged rotors. Swift diagnosis and replacement of pads by a mechanic can resolve the issue, ensuring safe and effective braking.

TAKING LONGER TO STOP
Worn brake pads extend stopping times, which can increase the risk of accidents. Prompt replacement is vital to maintain stopping power and prevent potential collisions.

BRAKE WARNING LIGHT

The brake warning light signals critical pad wear, impacting braking efficiency. If you see your brake lights come on, act swiftly to address the problem and prevent costly repairs in the future.

THIN BRAKE PADS
Regularly check brake pad thickness to avoid compromised emergency braking. Replacing thin pads promptly will prevent potential braking issues on the road. Pads at 3mm or below are in the “Replace Now” range.

SIGNS THAT IT MAY BE TIME TO REPLACE YOUR BRAKE ROTORS

Signs of worn or damaged brake rotors include:

SQUEALING SOUNDS
High-pitched squealing when braking could indicate worn brake rotors, caused by uneven surfaces due to wear. Regularly checking for unusual noises during driving, especially when applying brakes, can help detect this early sign of rotor wear.

LONGER STOPPING TIME
Uneven surfaces on worn brake rotors can prevent brake pads from making effective contact, resulting in longer stopping times. If your vehicle takes longer to slow down, it’s an indication that the brake rotors may need attention.

STEERING WHEEL VIBRATIONS
Vibrations in the steering wheel during braking can signal deteriorating front brake rotors, often due to overheating or rust. Promptly addressing this issue is essential for safety and preventing further damage to the braking system.

BRAKE PEDAL PULSATION
A pulsating brake pedal can also be a sign of worn rotors, caused by uneven surfaces or rust. This issue is noticeable in both front and rear rotors but is particularly pronounced if originating from the front, often accompanied by steering wheel vibrations.

SCRATCHED, SCORED, OR GROOVED ROTORS
Deep grooves on brake rotors indicate significant wear and potential damage, often caused by objects like stones. Regular inspection of rotor surfaces can help you identify these signs early so you can respond promptly.

BLUE COLOR ON ROTORS
Excessive heat during braking can turn brake rotors blue, indicating potential damage. While subtle, this heat can lead to wear, and the blue color serves as a visible sign of excessive heat and potential rotor damage.

WARNING LIGHTS
Sophisticated warning systems, including brake warning lights, can signal potential issues. Different lights on the dashboard indicate the need to inspect and possibly replace worn-out brakes. Ignoring these warnings can result in severe and costly problems.

Our trusted mechanics offer valuable advice on vehicle maintenance. If your mechanic recommends replacing brake rotors, heed their advice to prevent safety hazards and ensure the longevity and best stopping brake system possible. Their expertise helps accurately assess your braking system’s health and overall vehicle condition.

HAVE A QUESTION? Calibey's Oakhurst Auto can help, give us a call today! 727-798-5131

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727-397-3788

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Open 8:30am - 5:00pm Monday - Friday