New brakes and rotors at 56K???

[oldage]

Hey all... I have searched and read many posts about brakes here but don't see many mechanics commenting. Just came back from a simple multi-point service and was surprised at the recommendations for an eventual necessary brake job all around.

First, the pads are measured at around 2mm remaining. Yes, I believe that my pedal is beginning to feel mushy. Secondly, they are recommending replacement rotors all around. This one is new to me. Yes, I understand that parts wear but in all my years of driving, there was always an option of having the rotors machined. I have never replaced a rotor until at least one brake job completed and then over 120K+ on the car.

I have the dealer's measurements if there is someone who would like to comment. Again, 2mm remaining on pads, 24.05mm on front rotors and 8.75mm on rear rotors. My driving is 85% highway, light traffic, low weight on vehicle. At 56,000 miles. Recommended parts, new hardware, new rotors, and labor is quite the number Oh, and of course I need new tires but I was ready for that one.

Thanks.
AGE

[Scheib]

I too remember when they used to turn the rotors so they were good for another round before needing an eventual brake job down the road, but I've been through probably 8 brake jobs in the last 18 years and every single time they put new rotors on during the brake job. I'm not sure why they can't turn rotors anymore, but I'd sure like to know.

[asoomal]

Rotors are a lot cheaper these days.

[Wallybear]

New rotors are a wasted expense (and a profit source for the dealer/repair shop) when a simple turning (i.e., a slight grinding down to smooth the surface with a special lathe) of the rotors will do.

Unless you've damaged the rotors---warped them for instance by riding the brakes often, or if they are badly rusted by road salt---turning them is a simple and economical approach. I would take the car to a couple of dealers and a Midas shop and ask for a free inspection and estimate. I've seen the price range from $200 an axle with turning the rotors to over $500 per axle for rotor replacements. You do the math on who's the winner here. Oh, and because rotors in good shape are actually reusable (i.e., they can be turned and put on another car), there's another profit source for shops that insist that you need new rotors. They may plan to sell yours after turning them to someone else. They all go home with a big smile on their faces. You get a complete new brake system, sure, but you get taken too.

Good luck. Just my 2-cents worth from years in this business (the car business).

[JunseiMotors]

Not un common for the rears to need new pads already. Seen it as soon as 45k but im sure the customer was riding the brakes alot to since they had excess glaze. If they have excess rust, then yea I would also replace rotors at the same time. Get a second opinion or even a third opinion. Many shops and dealers do free brake inspections.