GMC Sierra 1500 Brake Rotor Replacement Cost

Most modern passenger vehicles use disc brake systems on all four wheels. Brake rotors are the final part of the braking system, and use friction created by the brake pads to slow or stop the vehicle.

As the term “disc brake” implies, the brake rotor is shaped like a disc. This disc rotates with the vehicle's wheel until the brake pads squeeze the rotor from both sides to create braking force. The brake rotor transmits this braking force directly to the wheels, and causes the vehicle to slow down.

Brake rotors are mainly maintenance free, but when they have been subjected to abnormally hard use, the heat they absorb can cause the metal to turn blue, and cracking to occur. When this occurs, customers often specify they have lost braking power, or the vehicle's brakes are making noise. There may be no symptoms at all related to changing the brake rotors, since it is recommended to change brake rotors on most modern vehicles when performing a standard brake service.

It is not safe to operate any vehicle with any braking problem. If there is any sign that the brakes are not performing as originally intended, the vehicle should immediately be placed out of service and repaired. If the rotors are being replaced as part of routine maintenance, with no symptoms noticed, the vehicle can safely be driven to a repair shop.

Brake rotors are typically replaced as part of a standard brake service, so the average serviceable lifespan depends on driving style, and operating conditions. The manufacturer recommended maintenance schedule for each vehicle may be different, and the owner's manual will contain this information.

Trained technicians have seen hundreds, if not thousands, of brake rotors through their careers and training. The signs they look for when disc brakes are suspected of failure are deep grooves, stress fractures, and a blue color indicating the brake rotor has exceeded the allowable heat range. If any of these conditions exist, the technician will recommend replacement, or machining if appropriate.

To replace a brake rotor, the wheel, brake caliper, and a retaining screw must be removed from the vehicle. The replacement rotor is installed by sliding onto the hub and bearing assembly, and cleaned before installing the brake caliper and brake pads. Wheel nuts, also called lug nuts, must be tightened to the manufacturer specification.

When replacing a brake rotor, it is important to replace the corresponding rotor on the other side of the vehicle. This will ensure the braking power is even and predictable. Brake pads show wear patterns after many times of grinding into the old brake rotor, and must be replaced to avoid brake noise, uneven braking pressure, and unpredictable braking performance.

Some brake rotors are mounted onto the wheel bearings, and those bearings should be repacked with grease or replaced when the rotor is removed. Any grease or automotive fluid besides water on the brake rotor will instantly contaminate the brake pad, necessitating replacement of the pads. To avoid this, the new rotors should be cleaned with brake parts cleaner prior to installation of the brake pads and caliper.

This is a great job for a DIY project. The average DIYer can tackle this on a weekend with a basic knowledge of the disc brake system, and a few basic tools.