Are Your Brakes Shaking? Learn How to Fix Brake Rotor Runout in Simple Steps!

Are you experiencing a persistent brake vibration or pulsation? You might be dealing with brake rotor runout, a common issue that can significantly impact your vehicle’s braking performance and safety. This blog post will guide you through understanding brake rotor runout, its causes, symptoms, and most importantly, how to fix brake rotor runout.

What is Brake Rotor Runout?

Brake rotor runout refers to the unevenness or wobble in a brake rotor‘s surface. Ideally, a brake rotor should be perfectly flat and smooth. However, over time, various factors can cause the rotor to become warped or uneven, leading to runout.

Common Causes of Brake Rotor Runout

Several factors can contribute to brake rotor runout. Here are some of the most common causes:

• Overheating: Excessive braking, especially during heavy loads or long descents, can cause the brake rotors to overheat. This intense heat can lead to warping and distortion of the rotor surface.
• Improper Installation: Incorrect installation of brake rotors, such as improper torqueing of lug nuts or uneven tightening, can cause the rotor to become misaligned and develop runout.
• Corrosion: Rust and corrosion on the rotor surface can lead to uneven wear and contribute to runout.
• Wear and Tear: Normal wear and tear from brake pad friction can cause uneven wear patterns on the rotor surface, leading to runout over time.
• Damaged Rotors: Impact damage from road debris or potholes can also cause warping and runout.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Brake Rotor Runout

The most noticeable symptom of brake rotor runout is a pulsating or vibrating feeling in the brake pedal when braking. This vibration can be felt through the steering wheel or the entire vehicle. Other symptoms include:

• Noisy Brakes: You may hear a grinding or scraping sound when applying the brakes.
• Uneven Brake Pad Wear: Brake pads may wear unevenly due to the uneven surface of the rotor.
• Reduced Braking Effectiveness: Runout can lead to reduced braking efficiency, making it harder to stop the vehicle.

How to Fix Brake Rotor Runout

Fixing brake rotor runout typically involves either resurfacing or replacing the affected rotors.

Resurfacing Brake Rotors

Resurfacing involves machining the rotor surface to remove the unevenness and restore its flatness. This is a cost-effective solution if the runout is minimal. However, resurfacing can only be done a limited number of times before the rotor becomes too thin and needs replacement.

Replacing Brake Rotors

If the runout is severe or the rotor has been resurfaced multiple times, replacement is the best option. Replacing brake rotors ensures a smooth and even braking surface, restoring optimal braking performance.

Step-by-Step Guide to Fixing Brake Rotor Runout

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to fix brake rotor runout:

1. Inspect the Brake Rotors: Begin by visually inspecting the brake rotors for any signs of warping, scoring, or excessive wear. Use a dial indicator or caliper to measure the runout.
2. Remove the Brake Rotors: Once you’ve identified the problem rotors, remove them from the vehicle. This typically involves loosening the lug nuts, lifting the vehicle, and removing the brake caliper and pads.
3. Resurface or Replace the Rotors: If the runout is minimal, you can attempt to resurface the rotors. This requires a specialized lathe to machine the surface. If the runout is severe, or the rotors have been resurfaced multiple times, replacement is recommended.
4. Install the New or Resurfaced Rotors: Install the new or resurfaced rotors onto the vehicle, ensuring proper alignment and torqueing of the lug nuts.
5. Reinstall Brake Components: Reinstall the brake calipers, pads, and other components, ensuring that everything is properly secured.
6. Test Drive and Inspect: After installation, test drive the vehicle to check for any remaining vibration or pulsation. If the problem persists, re-inspect the brake system for any potential issues.

Tips for Preventing Brake Rotor Runout

While brake rotor runout is a common issue, you can take steps to prevent it:

• Avoid Excessive Braking: Try to avoid heavy braking as much as possible, especially during long descents or when carrying heavy loads.
• Properly Maintain Your Brakes: Regularly inspect your brake pads and rotors for wear and tear. Replace worn-out components promptly.
• Use Quality Brake Pads: Using high-quality brake pads can help reduce wear and tear on the rotors.
• Avoid Driving on Rough Roads: Driving on rough roads can cause damage to the rotors. If possible, avoid driving on heavily potholed roads.

Wrapping Up: Ensuring Smooth and Safe Braking

Addressing brake rotor runout is crucial for maintaining safe and efficient braking performance. By understanding the causes, symptoms, and solutions for this issue, you can proactively address it and ensure the smooth and reliable operation of your vehicle’s braking system.

Quick Answers to Your FAQs

1. How often should I inspect my brake rotors for runout?

It’s recommended to inspect your brake rotors for runout at least once a year or whenever you notice any brake vibration or pulsation.

2. Can I resurface brake rotors at home?

Resurfacing brake rotors requires specialized equipment and expertise. It’s best to have this work done by a professional mechanic.

3. What are the signs that my brake rotors need to be replaced?

If the rotors have been resurfaced multiple times, are excessively worn, or have significant damage, they need to be replaced.

4. How much does it cost to fix brake rotor runout?

The cost of fixing brake rotor runout can vary depending on the severity of the issue and the type of repair needed. Resurfacing is generally less expensive than replacing the rotors.