Brake Discs

Brake discs are a critical component of your car for your safety. They work as a system with other brake accessories: when you press the brake pedal, hydraulic fluid forces the caliper to push the brake pads against both sides of the spinning disc, creating friction that slows the vehicle down and to a stop. 

It goes without saying that this process happens so frequently when you’re driving, whether you’re coming to a stop at a junction or slowing on corners around tracks. That’s why it’s so important to ensure that your brake discs are in working order with regular servicing. 

Brake discs are usually visible through each wheel's alloy, so many people have different preferences when it comes to their aesthetics, in terms of colour and style.  

Normally, you can carry out a quick inspection for your brake discs as you can see them through the alloys on each wheel. Grab a torch and take a look if there are any identifiable signs that your brake discs need replacing, such as rust, cracks or deep grooves. 

However, this process is not a thorough check that brake discs need to ensure that they’re operating safely. By booking a service with us, we can let you know whether or not you need a replacement, for your safety, vehicle’s performance and the reduced likelihood of an even more expensive job in the future. 

Many brake discs typically last between 30,000 to 70,000 miles, but their longevity can depend on a variety of different factors. Let’s take a look at some of the different factors that can impact your brake discs over time: 

1. Your Driving Style - Harsh cornering, accelerating and braking can wear out your brake discs and other brake components quicker. If you’re driving on normal roads on a daily basis, habits such as these are useful to keep in mind for the longevity of your brake discs. For track performance and racing enthusiasts, your brake discs, as well as other car parts, require extra servicing as these components can wear down quicker. 
2. Your Area - The area you drive in and the kinds of journeys you take can have a big impact on your brake discs’ lifespan. For example, areas with a lot of potholes as opposed to smooth road surfaces are more susceptible to dirt, grime and debris, and they also have to take a bigger impact when slowing down. 
3. Brake Disc Quality - Brake discs that are made from cheaper materials and metals can wear down quicker. Our brake discs are largely made with an anti-corrosional coating that protects them from rusting and damage.
4. Servicing - Regular servicing can help diagnose any problems with your brake discs, as well as your vehicle in general. Infrequent or missed service appointments may result in the vehicle’s owner not raising any issues with their brake components, which can be unsafe and lead to an expensive fix in the future. 

We have various types of brake discs available, with different designs that can have different effects on your vehicle’s performance and aesthetics. Let’s take a look at some examples: 

1. Plain - Plain brake discs are solid with no extra drilled holes around their circumference. They can also be referred to as brake rotors, and their solid surface offers a quieter sound that is mostly favoured for street use on a daily basis. They’re also cheaper than other brake disc styles, making them a more budget friendly option. 
2. Drilled - Drilled brake discs differentiate from plain brake discs as they have a lot of holes that allow for gases to escape, creating more responsive braking. These options tend to be liked more by performance enthusiasts, not only for their quick and responsive braking, but for their sporty aesthetics.
3. Grooved - These brake discs are designed with several diagonal slats all around the disc. These discs are ideal for reducing brake fade, which is where the brake components overheat and reduce their effectiveness in braking. These grooves also act as filters that remove dust and debris from getting into other elements of the car.
4. Drilled & Grooved - As a combination of both drilled and grooved designs, these brake disc options make a high-performance upgrade for track racers and enthusiasts. With quicker airflow from the drilled holes and grooves, these brake discs create sharper and more responsive braking.
5. Hooked - Designed with hook-shaped grooves, these brake discs are designed to improve your car’s brake bite. They work by increasing friction between the pad and disc, helping to deliver a more immediate and responsive braking feel

In most cases, replacing your brake discs won’t affect your vehicle’s warranty, especially if you’re using parts that meet OEM standards. However, if you choose performance or aftermarket discs, it’s always a good idea to double-check your warranty terms or speak with your manufacturer or dealer. Contact us on 0113 250 8333 if you’re ever unsure about anything.