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What is brake rotor resurfacing?

I just got back from a long road trip through the desert, and safe to say that my car is in need of a little spa day. Someone told me that I should get my brake rotors resurfaced, can you tell what exactly that is?

avatar
Natalie Todoroff · Updated on
Reviewed by Shannon Martin, Licensed Insurance Agent.
If you’re wondering, “what is brake rotor resurfacing?” we’ve got the answer. Brake rotor resurfacing is when a mechanic whittles down part of your brake rotor to remove excess rust, making your rotor’s surface smooth again.
Brake rotors can become warped and uneven with prolonged exposure to excess heat and general wear and tear.
Not all brake rotors allow resurfacing. Each brake rotor has a minimum thickness set by the vehicle manufacturer. Therefore, if your rotors were resurfaced once, doing so again may make them too thin.
But, if you can do it, brake rotor resurfacing can be a great way to boost your car’s braking system. Afterward, your brake rotors will have better contact and more friction with your
brake pads
, and you’ll enjoy smoother, quieter braking.
On average, break resurfacing costs between $15 and $45 per rotor, while entire rotor replacements cost as much as $100 per wheel.
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Jerry partners with more than 50 insurance companies, but our content is independently researched, written, and fact-checked by our team of editors and agents. We aren’t paid for reviews or other content.

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