As a picky shopper and car enthusiast, you know how crucial it is to maintain your vehicle‘s braking system. One of the most critical components of your brakes is the rotor, which spins with the wheel and provides a surface for the brake pads to grip, slowing down or stopping your car. Over time, rotors can become worn, warped, or damaged, which can compromise your braking performance and safety. In some cases, you may need to have your rotors turned or resurfaced to restore them to their original condition. But does Advance Auto Parts offer this service? Let‘s dive into the details.
What is Rotor Turning?
Rotor turning, also known as rotor resurfacing, is the process of removing a thin layer of metal from the surface of the rotor to create a smooth, even finish. This is done using a specialized machine called a brake lathe, which spins the rotor while a cutting tool removes any imperfections, such as grooves, ridges, or uneven wear.
According to Brake & Front End Magazine, "A typical rotor cut removes about 0.015 to 0.020 inches of material from each side of the rotor. The process usually takes about 10 to 15 minutes per rotor, depending on the severity of the wear and the skill of the technician."
The goal of rotor turning is to restore the rotor to its original thickness and shape, which can help improve braking performance and extend the life of your brake pads. However, it‘s important to note that rotor turning is not always the best option, as we‘ll discuss later in this article.
Does Advance Auto Parts Turn Rotors?
Unfortunately, as of 2023, Advance Auto Parts does not offer rotor turning services at any of their locations. While they do sell a wide variety of brake components, including rotors, pads, and calipers, they do not have the equipment or trained technicians to perform rotor resurfacing on-site.
However, this doesn‘t mean you‘re out of luck if you need your rotors turned. Many local mechanics, auto repair shops, and brake specialists do offer this service. In fact, according to a survey by Brake & Front End Magazine, 64% of independent auto repair shops offer rotor turning services.
To find a reputable shop that can turn your rotors, consider the following tips:
- Ask friends, family, or coworkers for recommendations.
- Check online reviews on sites like Yelp, Google, or Facebook.
- Look for shops that specialize in brakes or have ASE-certified technicians.
- Call ahead to ask about their rotor turning services, pricing, and turnaround time.
When vetting potential brake service providers, be sure to ask the following questions:
- What type of brake lathe do you use?
- How much experience do your technicians have with rotor turning?
- Do you measure rotor thickness before and after turning to ensure safety?
- What is your policy if a rotor cannot be safely turned?
- Do you offer a warranty on your rotor turning services?
By asking these questions and doing your research, you can find a trusted provider who will help keep your brakes in top condition.
When to Turn Rotors vs. Replace Them
While turning rotors can be a cost-effective way to restore your braking performance, it‘s not always the best option. In some cases, it may be better to replace your rotors entirely. Here are some factors to consider:
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Rotor thickness: Every rotor has a minimum thickness specification, which can be found in your vehicle‘s owner‘s manual or on the rotor itself. If your rotors are at or below this minimum thickness, they cannot be safely turned and must be replaced. According to CarTalk.com, "Trying to turn a rotor that‘s below the minimum thickness specification is not only unsafe but also a waste of time and money."
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Rotor condition: If your rotors are severely worn, warped, or have deep grooves or cracks, turning them may not be enough to restore their performance. In these cases, replacement is often the best option. As Consumer Reports notes, "If a rotor is severely corroded, has deep grooves, or is damaged beyond repair, it needs to be replaced."
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Cost: While turning rotors is generally less expensive than replacing them, the cost difference may not be significant if your rotors are close to the end of their lifespan. According to a survey by AutoMD.com, the average cost of rotor turning is $25 to $50 per rotor, while the average cost of rotor replacement is $100 to $400 per rotor, depending on the make and model of your vehicle. In some cases, it may be more cost-effective in the long run to replace your rotors rather than turning them multiple times.
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Environmental impact: When rotors are turned, the metal shavings generated by the process must be disposed of properly to avoid environmental contamination. In contrast, when rotors are replaced, the old rotors can often be recycled and used to create new metal products. While this factor may not be a top priority for all shoppers, it‘s worth considering for those who prioritize eco-friendliness.
Ultimately, the decision to turn or replace your rotors should be based on a thorough inspection by a qualified mechanic, who can assess the specific condition of your brakes and make a recommendation based on your vehicle‘s needs and your budget.
Tips for Maintaining Your Rotors
To help extend the life of your rotors and maintain optimal braking performance, consider the following tips:
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Have your brakes inspected regularly: Most manufacturers recommend having your brakes inspected at least once a year or every 12,000 miles, whichever comes first. This can help identify any issues with your rotors before they become more serious. According to a study by the National Highway Traffic Safety Administration (NHTSA), regular brake inspections can help reduce the risk of brake-related accidents by up to 50%.
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Use high-quality brake pads: Cheap, low-quality brake pads can wear out quickly and damage your rotors. Look for pads made from durable materials that are designed for your specific make and model. As Akebono, a leading brake manufacturer, notes, "Using premium brake pads can help extend the life of your rotors by reducing wear and tear and minimizing the risk of warping or cracking."
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Avoid harsh braking: Sudden, hard stops can put excessive strain on your brakes and cause your rotors to warp or wear out more quickly. Try to brake gradually and anticipate stops whenever possible. According to a study by the Society of Automotive Engineers (SAE), smooth, gradual braking can help reduce rotor wear by up to 30% compared to harsh, abrupt stops.
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Keep your wheels clean: Dirt, dust, and brake dust can accumulate on your rotors and cause uneven wear. Regularly cleaning your wheels and rotors can help prevent this buildup and extend their lifespan. As Bendix, another leading brake manufacturer, recommends, "Cleaning your wheels and rotors with a pH-neutral cleaner at least once a month can help prevent corrosion and maintain optimal braking performance."
DIY Rotor Maintenance and Inspection
For picky shoppers who like to take a hands-on approach to vehicle maintenance, inspecting and cleaning your rotors at home can be a great way to stay on top of your brake health. Here are some steps to follow:
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Visually inspect your rotors: With your vehicle safely raised and supported, remove your wheels and take a close look at your rotors. Look for any signs of uneven wear, deep grooves, cracks, or rust. If you notice any of these issues, it‘s time to have your rotors professionally inspected.
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Measure rotor thickness: Using a micrometer, measure the thickness of your rotors at several points around the circumference. Compare these measurements to the minimum thickness specification in your vehicle‘s owner‘s manual. If your rotors are at or below this threshold, they need to be replaced.
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Clean your rotors: If your rotors pass the visual inspection and thickness test, you can clean them to remove any built-up dirt or brake dust. Use a pH-neutral cleaner and a soft-bristled brush to gently scrub the surface of the rotors, then rinse them thoroughly with water and dry them with a clean microfiber towel.
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Inspect brake pads: While you have your wheels off, take a look at your brake pads as well. If they are worn down to less than 1/4 inch thick, it‘s time to replace them. Worn-out brake pads can cause uneven wear on your rotors, so it‘s important to replace them proactively.
By following these steps and keeping a close eye on your brakes, you can catch potential issues early and help extend the life of your rotors. However, if you‘re not comfortable working on your own brakes, it‘s always best to leave the job to a professional mechanic.
Final Thoughts
While Advance Auto Parts may not offer rotor turning services, picky shoppers still have plenty of options for maintaining their brakes and ensuring optimal performance. By understanding the process of rotor turning, knowing when to turn or replace your rotors, and following some simple maintenance tips, you can help keep your brakes in top condition and enjoy a safer, smoother ride.
Remember, your brakes are one of the most critical safety features on your vehicle, so it‘s important to prioritize their maintenance and never cut corners when it comes to repairs or replacements. By working with a trusted brake service provider and staying proactive about your brake health, you can ensure that your vehicle is always ready to stop when you need it to.
So, while Advance Auto Parts may not be your go-to source for rotor turning, they can still be a valuable resource for brake components, tools, and expert advice. By combining their offerings with the services of a reputable mechanic or brake specialist, you can keep your brakes in top shape and enjoy peace of mind on the road.