What Are Brake Rotors?

Jason Fogelson 11/30/2023 1:12pm

Brake rotors, also known as brake discs, are part of a disc brake system. Made of metal or ceramic materials, the discs rotate with the wheels. A caliper fits on the edge of the rotor, with pistons that push brake pads against the rotor to slow its rotation through friction.

In an ideal world, brake rotors would last forever. Unfortunately, pads wear out through use and frequently introduce corrosion into the equation, causing scoring on the disc surface. This situation reduces braking effectiveness and can generate excessive heat – which can warp the discs. Once a disc warps, braking becomes unpredictable.

Some discs can be restored through resurfacing, though that process has grown less common recently as disc replacement costs have fallen. Expect to pay $30 to $100 for everyday brake rotors (per rotor) or up to $1,000 or more for specialty ceramic rotors.

Jason Fogelson

Jason Fogelson is the Managing Editor of Publication Operations for Cox Automotive Inc. He works with the editorial team to ensure everything you read on Kelley Blue Book is factual, grammatically correct, well-written, and relevant. Jason contributed to KBB for years before joining the staff in 2022 as part of a long career as a freelance automotive journalist and editor for magazines and websites. His first book, “100 Things for Every Gearhead to Do Before They Die,” was published by Reedy Press in 2016. Jason was President of the Motor Press Guild (MPG) for two terms and is a member of the Automotive Press Association (APA), the Midwest Automotive Media Association (MAMA), and the International Motor Press Association (IMPA). He lives near Ann Arbor, Michigan, with his wife, dog, two cats, motorcycle, and van. He’s always on the hunt for an inexpensive roadster to fill an empty slot in his garage.
More From Jason