Auto Value of Ishpeming: Brake Rotors

Ready to buy a new set of brake rotors but confused about what type of rotor would work best for your car or driving style? Come by Auto Value of Ishpeming at 1500 US-41 or call 906-485-6328 and our auto parts specialist will be happy to help you select new brake rotors.

Four Types Of Brake Rotors

• Blank - Features a smooth surface
• Drilled - Offers multiple holes drilled into the surface of the rotor for better "bite"
• Slotted - Has the appearance of smooth grooves that cover the diameter of the brake rotor
• Drilled and Slotted - Offers the benefits of both drilled and slotted brake rotors combined in one

Most OEM factory installed brake systems use a blank rotor. But some high-performance cars or heavy-duty trucks use slotted and drilled brake rotors. Slotted grooves or drilled holes are used to vent heat away from the brake pad. As the rotor spins, heat build-up escapes. By removing extra heat the brakes may perform better under challenging conditions.

6 Reasons To Choose A Blank Smooth Brake Rotor or OEM Brake Rotor

• Most common brake rotor used by most car manufacturers
• Very cost-effective
• Preferred by "around town" luxury car drivers and long-distance endurance racers
• Quiet - smooth blank brake rotors produce very little street noise or rumble
• Produces very little brake dust but may increase brake pad glazing
• Lasts longer than other brake types

6 Reasons To Choose Drilled Rotors

• Great for general use in street vehicles
• Best known for performing well when raining because drilled holes give the water a place to escape
• Holds up well over the life of the brake rotors
• Delivers more friction causing the brake rotor to dry off quickly in wet conditions
• Wears unevenly and may require frequent maintenance
• Develops cracks when used for racing because the brake rotor cannot withstand repeated heat and cool cycles

6 Reasons To Choose Slotted Rotors

• Great for heavy trucks, SUVs, off-road vehicles, tow trucks, and competition race cars
• Cools brake rotors and pads quickly as slots remove heat each time the rotor spins
• Delivers improved consistency with every stop, by distributing the friction on the brake pads
• Slots shave off brake pad glaze to expose fresh material each time you brake. However, this benefit can also mean replacing your brake pads more often
• Drivers who enjoy feeling connected to the road may like the rumble and noise created by slotted rotors
• Offers fewer issues with cracks than drilled brake rotors

6 Reasons To Choose Drilled And Slotted Rotors

• Works well in wet climates
• The most commonly used brake rotor on Mercedes, BMW, and other high-performance luxury cars.
• Great for tow trucks and vehicles carrying heavy loads where more energy is needed to come to a complete stop
• The surface is vulnerable to cracking under extreme racing and track conditions
• May wear unevenly and may require frequent maintenance
• The rumbling noise generated by the brake rotors are an acceptable trade-off for increased performance for many driving enthusiasts