Symptoms of a Bad or Failing Brake Rotor/Disc

Common signs include noisy brakes, vibrations that can be felt on the pedal, and score marks on the rotor.

The disc brake rotors are metal discs that work together with the brake pads and calipers to slow the vehicle. When the pedal is depressed, the calipers squeeze the brake pads against the spinning rotors to slow and stop the wheels and the vehicle. Since rotors work to slow the vehicle by using friction from direct contact with the brake pads, they do wear out over time and will eventually need to be replaced. Usually when rotors have a problem, they will produce a few symptoms that can alert the driver that they may require attention.

1. Noisy brakes

One of the first symptoms commonly associated with bad brake rotors is noise. If the rotors are warped or severely worn, they may produce squealing or squeaking sounds. Usually warped rotors will produce a squeak, while severely worn rotors will produce a scraping sound.

2. Vibrations from the brakes

Another symptom of bad brake rotors is excessive vibration coming from the brakes. Warped or excessively worn rotors may vibrate irregularly and cause vibrations that can be felt in the pedal, and sometimes through the vehicle’s chassis. Warped rotors may also produce a pulsating feel that will be felt in the pedal when the brakes are applied.

3. Grooves or score marks on the rotor

Another symptom of bad or failing rotors is visual scoring or grooves on the face of the rotor. Over time, grooves or scoring marks can develop on the rotor from repeated contact with the brake pads. Scoring and grooves in a rotor can take away from its capacity to slow the vehicle, as well as cause vibration and pulsation that can be felt in the pedal. Usually scored or grooved rotors will require replacement.

The disc brake rotors are a very important part of the braking system, and as a result are critical to the overall safety and handling characteristics of the vehicle. If you suspect that your rotors may be worn or damaged, have the vehicle inspected by a professional technician, such as one from AUTOFACTORNG, to determine if your car needs a brake rotor/disc replacement.