What causes Brake Discs to Wear out
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What causes Brake Discs to Wear out
What causes Brake Discs to Wear Out
Unfortunately, I remember the days before brake discs were fitted to our cars. In fact, brake shoes were the norm for most regular car models. Indeed, my first encounter with disc brakes was on a Jaguar belonging to the son of a wealthy mill owner. We used to service his vehicles, and the Jaguar was one of them. However, as an apprentice, I never got to touch the car. But I remember being shown how the disc system worked.
Hence, It was explained to me that brake discs are subjected to constant friction and heat during the braking process. However, over time, the repeated exposure to these elements can cause the discs to wear out. In addition, other factors that can contribute to brake disc wear include the following:
Driving Style: What causes Brake Discs to Wear out
Accordingly, aggressive driving habits such as frequent hard braking and riding the brakes can accelerate the wear of the brake discs. (Boy racers come to mind.)
Driving Conditions
Driving in stop-and-go traffic, on mountainous terrain, or on rough roads can cause excessive wear on the brake discs.
Poor Quality Pads: What causes Brake Discs to Wear Out?
So this, along with corrosion, is the most common cause for disc wear. Low-quality brake pads can cause uneven wear on the brake discs, leading to premature failure.
Corrosion
Exposure to moisture, salt, and other environmental elements can cause corrosion on the brake discs, leading to accelerated wear. Especially the rear discs, which don’t get as much use as the front discs.
How Can You Tell if Your Brake Discs are Worn Out?
There are several signs that can indicate worn-out brake discs, including:
Vibration: What causes Brake Discs to Wear out
So, when driving along, if you feel a vibration in the steering wheel or brake pedal when you apply the brakes, it may be due to worn-out brake discs. Many of my customers think this is something to do with wheel balance. But it is a different type of vibration caused by wheel balance.
Squeaking or Grinding Noise
Yet another common cause is when the driver can hear squeaking or grinding noises when braking. Of course, that can indicate that the brake pads have worn down to the metal and are damaging the brake discs.
Reduced Braking Performance
So, when the discs are subjected to hours of heating, then the metal changes construction and softens. When this occurs, it takes longer to stop your vehicle than usual, or the brakes feel less responsive. Consequently, it may also be due to worn-out brake discs.
- Visual Inspection
You can visually inspect the brake discs for signs of wear. If the disc has deep grooves, cracks, or a blue colour, it may be due to excessive heat and wear.
- What Should You Do If Your Brake Discs Are Worn Out?
If you suspect that your brake discs are worn out, it is essential to have them inspected by a qualified mechanic. Here are some steps you can take:
- Replace the Brake Discs: What causes Brake Discs to Wear out
If the brake discs are worn beyond their service limit, they must be replaced. It is essential to replace both brake discs on the same axle to ensure proper braking performance.
- Replace the Brake Pads
Most commonly, worn-out brake pads can cause excessive wear on the brake discs. Therefore, it is recommended to replace the brake pads at the same time as the brake discs.
- Check the Brake System Components
It is essential to have the entire brake system inspected for wear and damage. Components such as brake callipers, brake hoses, and brake fluid should be inspected and replaced if necessary.
What can I do ? Upgrade to High-Quality Brake Components
If you frequently drive in challenging conditions or want to improve braking performance. Consider upgrading to higher-quality brake components such as ceramic brake pads or drilled and slotted brake discs.
- How Can You Prevent Brake Disc Wear?
Regular maintenance and driving habits can help prolong the life of your brake discs. Here are some tips:
2. Avoid Aggressive Driving Habits
Frequent hard braking and riding the brakes can accelerate the wear of the brake discs.
3. Drive Carefully on Rough Roads
Driving on rough or unpaved roads can cause excessive wear on the brake discs.
4. Use High-Quality Brake Components
High-quality brake pads and discs can last longer and provide a better safety rating for your family and friends.
Modern Brake Disc Problems in Today’s Vehicles
Whilst the basic principles of braking remain much the same as they did when Jaguar first introduced disc brakes to its road cars, modern motorists are facing some new challenges when it comes to brake disc wear.
One issue that we are seeing more frequently at Pellon Tyre and Autocentre in Halifax is corrosion-related brake disc failure. Years ago, brake discs would often wear out through normal use before corrosion became a major problem. However, modern vehicles are generally more reliable, and many drivers cover fewer miles than they once did. As a result, brake discs can now rust and deteriorate before they are actually worn down.
This is particularly noticeable on the rear brakes.
Many modern vehicles use electronic brake-force distribution systems, meaning the rear brakes do not always work as hard as the front brakes. Consequently, the rear discs may not get hot enough to clean themselves properly during normal driving.
We often see vehicles presented for MOT testing where the brake discs still have plenty of thickness remaining, but the braking surface has become heavily corroded. This can lead to reduced braking efficiency and, in some cases, an MOT failure.
Another growing trend is the increase in hybrid and electric vehicles on Britain’s roads. Whilst many motorists assume that electric vehicles will suffer greater brake wear because of their additional weight, the opposite is often true. Regenerative braking systems slow the vehicle by using the electric motor to recover energy and recharge the battery.
This means that the conventional brake discs and pads are often used less frequently. Whilst this can reduce wear, it can also increase the likelihood of corrosion because the discs are not being cleaned by regular braking action.
Many manufacturers, including Jaguar, are now developing advanced brake-by-wire systems that integrate traditional braking with regenerative braking technology. These systems can provide excellent braking performance whilst improving vehicle efficiency and reducing energy consumption.
Why Cheap Brake Parts Can Cost More
Over the years, I have also noticed a significant difference between budget brake components and quality branded parts.
Whilst there is always a place for economical repairs, extremely cheap brake discs and pads can sometimes lead to increased noise, vibration, uneven wear and reduced service life. Brake components operate under tremendous pressure and temperatures that can exceed several hundred degrees Celsius during heavy braking.
For this reason, we always advise customers to choose quality components from reputable manufacturers whenever possible. A slightly higher initial investment can often result in longer service life and improved braking performance.
The Importance of Brake Inspections
Many drivers only think about their brakes when a warning light appears or when they hear an unusual noise. Unfortunately, by that stage, damage may already have occurred.
Regular servicing and brake inspections can identify problems before they become expensive repairs. During routine servicing at Pellon Tyres, we check brake pad thickness, disc condition, brake fluid levels, calliper operation and brake pipe condition.
A simple inspection today can often prevent a much larger repair bill in the future.
Brakes Remain Your Vehicle’s Most Important Safety System
Tyres may be the only part of your car that touches the road, but brakes remain one of the most important safety systems on any vehicle.
Whether you drive a classic Jaguar, a family hatchback, a modern SUV or one of the latest electric vehicles, keeping your braking system in good condition is essential.
After more than fifty years in the motor trade, one thing has never changed. When you press the brake pedal, you expect your vehicle to stop safely and predictably every time. That is why regular brake inspections and quality replacement components remain so important for today’s motorists.