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United Tire and Service News

Brake Pads vs. Rotors

11/15/2019 11:24:00 AM | (809) View Count | Return
Imagine taking your vehicle to the repair shop, believing that it needs one thing, and then discovering that it needs something entirely different – something more expensive! Well, that scenario happens far too often and one of the repairs that it happens the most is with the brake system. So, United Tire & Service thought that it would be good to share insight for understanding brake pads vs rotors. Generally, these are the two parts that are a factor the most often when you bring your vehicle to our shop for brake repairs.  
 

What is the difference between brake pads vs rotors?  

The brake pads are the lining that actually stops your vehicle when you press the brake pedal. Kinetic energy is converted from your vehicle into heat, which is used by the brake system and applied to the brake pads. Think of the brake pads like the soles of your shoes. They consist of relatively soft and heat-resistant material that is mounted to a solid metal plate with rivets or strong adhesive. Not unlike the soles of your shoes, the material wears down over time.   
 
Rotors are made from steel material. The material is completely smooth and must remain in relatively the same condition on a consistent basis. The rotor is roundrotor and securely attached to the wheel with lug nuts. After you apply the brake pedal, the brake pads simultaneously squeeze against the rotor to create friction, which reduces the rotation of the wheels. While the brake pads and the rotor work in tandem, the parts are not always replaced at the same time.   
 

When should the rotors be replaced? 

If the brake pads aren’t replaced in a timely manner, the lining material will eventually be nonexistent, which leaves nothing but the solid metal plate against the steel rotor. And that’s where problems, and higher costs, usually happen. In most situations, a rotor can be resurfaced by our technicians to bring it back to a smooth condition. Typically, the rotor does not need to be replaced unless the technician identifies the following concerns:
 
  • • Brake pads are worn too low and caused damage to the rotor 
  • • The rotor has insufficient material remaining to resurface
  • • There are hotspots on the rotor 
  • • A defective or a recalled rotor 
 

How can United Tire & Service help make the decision with brake rotors vs pads? 

United Tire & Service technicians look for every opportunity to save our customers' out-of-pocket expenses; however, it is imperative that we replace any part that is required to bring your vehicle within manufacturer and safety standards. We may also make recommendations based on the technicians' analysis of the brake rotor condition, rather than an immediate need. Our intention is always to give you the facts to empower your decision and so that you can budget accordingly.
Please reach out to one of United Tire & Service 13 independent locations to make an appointment. Our customers are important, and they're the reason why we continue to strive for excellence with every repair order. Don't forget to enroll in our Loyalty Rewards Program to earn points for great benefits and perks for tires and auto repairs!

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brake repair, brakes, brake pads

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Auto Repair 101

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At United Tire & Service, our staff is here to serve customers throughout Pennsylvania. We offer top-quality auto repair services done by expert technicians. From an oil change or brake repair to auto air conditioning repair, muffler repair, engine diagnostics, wheel alignment, car batteries, fleet repair, tire repair, suspension repair and Pennsylvania state vehicle inspections, we do it all. We also stock a wide selection of tires from all the top brands in the industry including Goodyear Tires, Dunlop Tires, Kelly Tires, and many more. Schedule an appointment with us today at one of our locations in Concordville, Downingtown, Emmaus, Feasterville, Phoenixville, Southampton, Paoli, West Chester or Willow Grove, PA. We are your number one source for top quality, affordable auto repair and tires!