Not every driver pays attention to the feel and sound of their vehicle. Knowing what to listen for and understanding how your vehicle operates will help you maintain your vehicle so you are driving as safely as possible. One of the biggest safety issues for a vehicle owner is taking care of the braking system. How do you know when the brake pads are wearing out? How often do brake rotors need to be replaced? These are good questions to ask your brake repair technician.

Brakes are vital to the safety of your vehicle. Squealing brakes are a sign that something isn’t right. Sometimes it can be a simple matter and easy to resolve. However, it can also be a sign of impending danger. Keeping your brake rotors pads, and calipers in optimum condition are of the utmost importance.

How do brakes work? When you press down on the brake pedal, the calipers cause the brake pads to clamp down on the rotors (also called discs). When pressure is applied to the rotors, it prevents the wheel from spinning. Most rotors are made from gray iron because it disperses heat well—important for preventing overheating and brake fade. High-performance vehicles use ceramic rotors, which are lighter and more stable at high speeds and all temperatures. They are, however, more expensive. Some rotors have a special rust-inhibiting coating that helps them look good and last longer.

So how often do brake rotors need to be replaced? They should be replaced about every 70,000 miles on most vehicles. Of course, this may vary depending on your style of driving, the weight of your vehicle, the quality of the braking components, and the use of your vehicle. Just like brake pads, brake rotors should be replaced in pairs for even stopping performance.