The steel disc located within a vehicle’s braking system is called a brake disc. This disc is also known as a rotor. The disc facilitates the friction of the brake pads and causes the vehicle to slow down through friction. For this reason, it is one of the most important parts of the brake system. The disc is located on top of the wheel. Of course, the brake disc manufacturer is as important as the brake disc itself. This is because the manufacturer directly determines the quality of the disc.
How Long Does a Brake Disc Last?
Brake discs, which are important components of a vehicle’s braking system, can wear out over time. Although their lifespan can be considered long, it is shorter depending on the vehicle’s usage and mileage. In this case, the brake disc needs to be replaced.
In conventionally used vehicles, brake discs need to be replaced when they reach 60-80 thousand kilometers. Replacing them ensures that the discs function smoothly and eliminates wear and tear.
How to Tell When the Brake Disc Needs to Be Replaced?
Vehicle users can determine when the brake disc in their vehicle needs to be replaced. The following clues make this easier.
Vehicle users should look for the following signs to know when to replace the disc:
· The disc surface has become flat.
· The disc thickness has become less than the specified minimum limit.
· The brake noise is loud.
· The vehicle’s stopping distance after braking has increased.
· Vibration occurs in the pedal when the brake is applied.
· Grooves have formed around the disc.
· Cracks forming on the disc
· Rust appearing on the brake disc
To avoid delaying disc replacement, the vehicle and brake discs need to be checked frequently. Depending on the driver’s frequency of use, distance traveled, and disc characteristics, the replacement interval may increase or decrease.
How to Choose a Brake Disc?
When it becomes clear that the brake disc in the vehicle, which facilitates deceleration, needs to be replaced, it is necessary to purchase a new brake disc. In this case, drivers need to choose the disc carefully.
First, the vehicle model must be taken into consideration. Purchasing a brake disc that is compatible with the model ensures proper use. In addition to model compatibility, it is necessary to ensure that the disc is of high quality. At this stage, the manufacturer or disc brand should be taken into account. Recommended brands can be helpful.
One detail to pay attention to when choosing a brake disc is the material it is made of. If the disc in the vehicle is steel, the new disc should also be steel. If it is not steel, it could be a carbon ceramic disc. This type of disc must be selected to be suitable for the vehicle. It is also necessary to find out whether the disc is original or aftermarket.
How to Replace a Brake Disc?
A worn-out and unusable brake disc must be replaced with a new one. The replacement process can be performed by vehicle service personnel or by vehicle users themselves. If vehicle owners wish to perform the replacement themselves, they must have the necessary materials. This ensures that the replacement can be done without damaging the disc or the vehicle’s brake system.
The brake disc replacement process begins by jacking up the vehicle. Once the vehicle is lifted, the lug nuts on the wheel are loosened and the wheels are removed. After the wheels are removed, the brake caliper and pads are accessed. The nuts on these parts are removed to allow the parts to be taken out.
Once the old brake disc is accessed, it is removed and replaced with a new one. After the disc is installed, it is screwed into place. Following the installation of the new disc, the caliper and brake pads are put back in place. After the parts are installed, the vehicle wheel is put back on and the lug nuts are screwed back onto the wheel.
How Much Does a Brake Disc Cost?
The brake discs on vehicles are related to the vehicle model and brand. This relationship also affects prices. Therefore, people who are going to replace their discs need to make their selection based on the brand and model of their vehicle.
Brake disc prices vary depending on whether the disc is original or aftermarket. It should be noted that original discs are more expensive. In addition, warranty and performance features also affect price increases or decreases.