Brake Pads vs Rotors
Your vehicle’s brakes are one of the most important systems in your car. They help you stop, control your speed, and keep you safe. Two important parts of the brake system are brake pads and brake rotors. If Dallas, Garland, and Arlington, Texas, drivers aren’t sure what these systems are and how they differ, they’ve come to the right place.
Dallas Dodge Chrysler Jeep Ram has put together this page to go over the difference between brake pads and rotors and inform you of signs that your brakes might need to be replaced. Read on to learn more!
What are Brake Pads and Rotors?
Brake pads and rotors are two different pieces of equipment that make up your braking system.
Brake pads are components that are applied onto the rotors to slow down your vehicle. The brake caliper houses the brake pads and squeezes the rotors to apply friction when you press the brake pedal.
There are a few different kinds of brake pads, like:
- Organic
- Ceramic
- Metallic
Each type can affect noise and performance and has a different cost.
Rotors are circular disks that are attached to your hubs and a vehicle’s wheels are secured to them via bolts. There are four of them in total and their job is to slow down your wheels when you brake. They also absorb the heat generated by the friction of the slowdown. The type of vehicle you have might change what type of brake rotor you have.
There are four different types:
- Blank and smooth
- Drilled
- Slotted
- Drilled and slotted
Signs Your Brakes Might Need to Be Replaced
Brake pads and rotors do eventually need to be replaced. There are a few signs you can look for that the brake components might need to be replaced or repaired.
The first sign has to do with sound. When you brake, if you hear a squealing or clicking noise, it might indicate that your brake pads are worn.
Another sign is that it takes longer to stop your vehicle than it used to. This is called brake fade and is caused by brake pads and rotors that can’t generate enough friction to stop your vehicle as quickly.
Your brake pedal might even pulse or vibrate when you try to brake. This could be the result of a warped rotor.
One last sign to watch for is your vehicle pulling to one side as you brake. This can indicate that your brakes are not wearing evenly.
Our Service Center
If you think your brakes need service, our service center is happy to help. We have original equipment manufacturer (OEM) parts to work on your vehicle, ensuring a great, long-lasting repair.
When you arrive, let us know what’s going on and we’ll get our highly experienced technicians on it. We’ll let you know what to expect from repairs and explain any issues we find.
Schedule a Service Appointment Today
If you think it’s time to replace your car’s brakes or rotors, our service team at Dallas DCJR can help. We can also answer any questions you have about the brakes and the rotors. We’ll take great care of your ride and get you back on the roads of Dallas, Garland, and Arlington, TX, as soon as possible.
Schedule an appointment online or by phone today!
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