Brake Linings

[hotskydiver]

Do i need to change the Rotor if i change the Brake Pads?

[Bear]

No need to change rotors if they are not warped (vibration when braking). It is a good idea to change the brake pad sensors (left front and right rear pad).

[Burma's Finest]

Originally Posted by Bear

No need to change rotors if they are not warped (vibration when braking). It is a good idea to change the brake pad sensors (left front and right rear pad).

Forgive my ignorance but I have this very same vibration when braking in my 1990 735i that you're talking about. It's only noticeable when braking from speeds of 50mph and greater. Is replacing the rotors (embarrassing that I have no idea what they are) a big and expensive job?

[Bear]

The rotors (sometimes called discs) are the parts that the brake pads clamp against to brake. Rotors are in the $40-$50 US price range. If you are having vibration braking at speed or even down toward low speed then the rotors are most probably the cause. Another issue with our cars is the upper control arm bushings failing and this manifests itself as a vibration when driving (not braking) at speeds in the 60 MPH and up range. The job of replacing the rotors is quite easy if you have any mechanical ability.

[Burma's Finest]

Thanks Bear! Now 'discs' is terminology that I'm familiar with. I had suspected it would be something like that. I'm having the car fully serviced tomorrow so now I have a good idea what to expect when I get the full report. Cheers.