How often do brake rotors usually need to be changed? I got a 1996 bmw sedan and i changed the brake rotors maybe 8,000-10,000 miles ago and know the brakes are starting to make some noices again so I was hoping its just the pads not the rotors also.
2007-07-18 17:58:57 · 10 answers · asked by Anonymous in Cars & Transportation ➔ Maintenance & Repairs
The rotors won't typically make the noise by themselves.
The pads will wear a lot faster than most rotors. When you have a brake job done, they typically will replace the pads and measure the rotors to see if they are still within specifications. If they are, and can be machined, they will machine the rotors. Which basically makes the rotors smooth again to give the brakes a good surface to press against.
If you let the brake pads either "bite" into the rotors by going metal to metal or even some squeal plates make a gouge in the rotors they won't be able to machine them and you'll need to get them replaced.
If you are just starting to hear noise, go get the brakes inspected before they "bite" into the rotors too deeply.
2007-07-18 18:05:14 · answer #1 · answered by hsueh010 7 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Ever since Asbestos was outlawed for use in brake pads the industry has had to make more agressive friction material. These agressive brake pads grind the rotors at an advanced rate but 10,000 miles is too fast even for the new pads. You may need to change rotors everytime you redo the front brakes but they should last for 30,000 miles. Probably something else is making the noise but check the linings first just because it is the easiest thing to do. Then look to see if anything is gouging the rotor, and what it is. Check the wheel bearings too. If the caliper has frozen on one side it will have used up the other pad quickly. Do your home work. You will find it.
2007-07-18 18:24:07 · answer #2 · answered by Anonymous · 0⤊ 0⤋
Many times the metal shield behind the rotor cleared nicely with the older thinner rotor and when you put on new thicker rotors the metal just touches the back side of the rotor and makes a heck of a noise that might change when turning and braking. You might have to remove the wheel where you hear the noise and put a couple lug nuts on the rotor finger tight and look down behind the rotor and gently bend that metal shield away from the rotor top and bottom. You only need a small gap. Good Luck
2016-05-17 06:52:26 · answer #3 · answered by ? 3 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If you replaced them 10,000 miles ago they will not need to be changed.
Have the pad's changed and the rotors might have to be turned, which is where they put the rotors on a lathe and cut a clean straight surface on them. This can typically be done twice before they have to be replaced.
If when you put the brakes on the car shudders slightly this is an indication that they need turned. If there is any kind of audible noise it's most likely just the pads.
2007-07-18 18:11:42 · answer #4 · answered by Chad 2 · 0⤊ 0⤋
Rotors are ok I would have the pads inspected see how much life is left to them if you need brake pads then they will resurface the rotors. If you have drum brakes in the rear have them or you perform a clean and adjust this will help extend the life of the front pads cause they wont have to work as hard. If you have disc brakes in the rear do the same as the front. Also all rotors have a measurement to them and where you get your work done should be taking measurements of your rotors before performing any work. I hope this info is helpful.
2007-07-18 18:06:59 · answer #5 · answered by andyblueeyes@att.net 2 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Get a micro meter and measure. Most BMW automotive books can tell you the acceptable thickness of the rotor. Generally, BMW rotors will last up 80K - 120K miles.
BMW cars have computer controlled pads wear sensors. They are located in Front Left wheel, and Rear Right wheel. So if it is a pads wear problem, your "brake lining" light would come on, telling you to replace the pads.
2007-07-19 04:59:02 · answer #6 · answered by Sang K 4 · 0⤊ 0⤋
forget the other answers. The squealing is caused by "squealers", they are attached to the brake pads and come into contact with the rotors when your brake pads become worn. Unless your steering wheel vibrates when you brake and the rotors are within a certain thickness, they should be fine.Have the pads changed by a Reputable shop, and if possible watch them do it as alot of places will rip you off.
2007-07-18 18:21:10 · answer #7 · answered by bryan s 1 · 0⤊ 0⤋
If you do not have a pulsating feel when you apply the brakes, it isn't the rotors.
Did you change the pads yourself?
Did you use brake grease on the caliper pins when you reinstalled them? This is an overlooked item. Not greasing those pins will cause the caliper to not float freely, the brakes will bind up and make your brakes squeal.
Do you drive hard?
You may have overheated the brake pads and heat-cracked them.
The only way to check them is to take them off again and inspect the pads for heat stress cracks.
2007-07-18 18:10:00 · answer #8 · answered by Harleyheritage91 3 · 1⤊ 0⤋
Its a BMW. As is typical of European design the pads and rotors are engineered to wear out at the same time.
2007-07-18 18:04:53 · answer #9 · answered by Naughtums 7 · 0⤊ 1⤋
if it squeaks every 2 seconds its the pads
2007-07-18 18:02:48 · answer #10 · answered by dpyle22 2 · 0⤊ 1⤋