Brake Rotor "Hot Spot" Question

[movado75]

When I took the car in for an oil change, I had them do a full inspection and they mentioned the front right rotor had “hot spots” on it and should be replaced. Usually when you have hot spots, I would think the the brakes would tend to shudder when slowing at high speed. But I haven’t experienced that. The brakes actually feel fine to me. So I’m wondering if there are hot spots on the rotor, then why don’t I feel any shuddering?

I rotors were resurfaced by the previous owner last year. I'm not sure why. The brakes and rotors are all OEM. Front brakes have about 2mm left on them. Rear brakes have 7mm.

 

[nsxtasy]

When I took the car in for an oil change, I had them do a full inspection and they mentioned the front right rotor had “hot spots” on it and should be replaced. Usually when you have hot spots, I would think the the brakes would tend to shudder when slowing at high speed. But I haven’t experienced that. The brakes actually feel fine to me. So I’m wondering if there are hot spots on the rotor, then why don’t I feel any shuddering?

Usually, the shuddering is not noticeable unless the brakes get REALLY hot - such as during track use, or when doing a sudden stop from high speed on the highway.

If you're not noticing any shudder, then don't replace the rotors.

I rotors were resurfaced by the previous owner last year. I'm not sure why.

Some people resurface the rotors every time the pads are replaced (while others, including myself, think that that is unnecessary).

Front brakes have about 2mm left on them. Rear brakes have 7mm.

It's time to change the front brake pads.

 

[ATERPAK]

Ken is right about changing the brake pads. The hot spots the dealer/service advisor notices is probably bunk. They just want to sell you new rotors and increase their commission from your service order. A two to three hundred dollar set of rotors makes them more money then just a rotor turn. I would turn the rotors (roughly $10 each) and install new pads. Bed the pads in correctly and all should be fine. Unless the rotor has a major crack in it, turning them will often get rid of any uneven wear or supposed hot spot on a rotor. Replace them only after they no longer meet factory thickness specs., or are cracked, or you wish to upgrade to a better 2 piece rotor. If you don't track you car then that would not be necessary. You also may want to try some better brake pads such as the Hawk HP+ which are great for the street but also allow for some minor track use in case you do that once in awhile. Price is also better. I you intend on tracking the car, then look at other areas of the web-site for more detailed info. on brakes for the track and street. Good luck.

Finally remember that the mechanic, service advisor and even the service manager make more money by inflating your service bill as much as they can get away with. Be a smart owner and use our FAQ and site to help you save money. That's what our club is all about. Good luck.

 

[movado75]

Thanks guys. I'm replacing the front brakes this week. Was just waiting on your input on the rotors so I could just have them done at the same time. But it looks like I don't really need to replace the rotors.