Signs It’s Time to Look Into Rotor Replacement

February 29, 2020 5:44 am Published by Leave your thoughts

The more you drive your vehicle, the more you’ll become accustomed to what it should feel like during normal, healthy operation. This will make it easier for you to pinpoint when something suddenly seems to be “off” with your vehicle.

One issue that might arise with your vehicle is damaged rotors. This is most likely to happen if you fail to properly maintain your brakes over time—the rotors are much more likely to get damaged if the brake pads wear down past a usable level. Here’s a quick overview of some of the most common signs you’re dealing with damaged rotors and may need to invest in rotor replacement in Gary, IN.

Vibrations in the steering wheel

Normal braking use can cause rotors to warp over time thanks to the frequent heating and cooling that occurs during the process. Pressing down on the brakes activates your brake pads, which then come into contact with the warped rotors. This will result in some steering wheel vibrations, because the pads will follow along on the contours of the rotors that have been warped.

While it’s not unusual to experience some slight sensations in the steering wheel when driving, you should easily be able to tell based on your experience with the vehicle if the vibrations you’re experiencing are particularly vigorous or otherwise unusual. If so, it’s important to get your vehicle (and rotors) checked as soon as possible.

Screeching noises

This is going to be a hard sign to miss—everyone in your vehicle should notice it, and even other drivers on the road might hear your brakes screeching. When rotors get worn down, damaged or warped, they will likely produce a sort of high-pitched squealing, screeching or grinding sound that’s almost akin to the scratching of a vinyl record. You’ll know it’s a problem with the rotors if it only occurs when you’re applying the brakes. So, if you’ve been noticing unusual squealing when you hit the brakes, it’s time to take your vehicle in for an inspection.

Rotors turned blue

If you have larger wheels without as many spokes, you might be able to see the rotors on your vehicle without even having to remove the tire. Or, if you know how to remove a tire to take a look, you can do that to visually inspect the rotors. If you see a blue tint on the rotors, this is a sign of rotor damage that will require replacement. Usually this is a result of excessive heat—it’s likely you’ve ridden the rotors too much, continually keeping the brakes engaged while driving. This is a common problem for people who regularly drive through hilly or mountainous terrain and spend a lot of time driving downhill. You don’t want to ride the brakes all the way down.

For more information about the signs that will indicate you need rotor replacement in Gary, IN, we encourage you to contact Miller Brakes and Mufflers, Inc. today. We look forward to assisting you soon.

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