Routine vehicle maintenance is essential in keeping your car in its best condition for the best performance. One of the most important components of a car that requires regular maintenance is the braking system. The braking system comprises of brake fluid, brake pads, and brake rotors. Among these components, brake rotors play one of the biggest roles in slowing down and stopping a car.
Brake rotors, also known as brake discs, are discs on which brake pads press to stop the wheels upon pushing down the brake pedal. As a result, they’re prone to wearing out due to the friction that results from the braking process. Once they wear out, the braking process is less efficient such that your car may take more time to slow down.
Most people replace brake pads and forget the rotors. You can have brand new brake pads but without reliable rotors, your car’s braking power will be reduced. It’s extremely dangerous to drive a vehicle with an unreliable braking system. Thus, it’s important to replace worn brake rotors. You can choose from several types of rotors. The main types of rotors are drilled, slotted, and blank brake rotors.
Blank brake rotors are the most common option. They feature a smooth, flat disc surface. They’re less noisy and last longer since they are less prone to cracking. However, their smoothness makes them less ideal for use in race cars or for anyone who drives aggressively.
Drilled brake rotors come with holes drilled on the discs. The holes make it easier for water and heat to move away from the disc surface for stronger braking. However, the holes make the discs more prone to weakening and cracking.
Slotted brake rotors come with slots that are carved into the disc surface. Their design makes them ideal for aggressive braking. As such, they’re ideal for use in racing cars. The slots allow water and heat to move away from the disc surface. However, slotted rotors wear down brake pads quickly.
We’ve selected the best brake rotors and reviewed them to assist you in avoiding confusion when shopping.
No products found.
10 Best Brake Rotors
#1. Bosch 50011479 QuietCast Premium Disc Brake Rotor
No products found.The Bosch 50011479 QuietCast rotor is made with innovative technology and materials that allow for more efficient braking. The rotor is designed for use in the front wheels of Lexus 2015 to 2016 Nx200t and NX300h models, 2010 to 2015 RX350 and RX450h modes, Toyota Highlander 2008 to 2016, and 2011 to 2015 Sienna.
The rotor comes with an aluminum-zinc coating that keeps them protected from corrosion and rust. As such, the rotor has improved heat dissipation for a longer lifespan. Also, the rotor is precision balanced in design for smoother braking.
Its design features a smooth finishing that allows for smoother braking without any pulsation. Besides, the castings are designed to wear consistently and evenly such that the rotor operates quietly for a noiseless braking experience. Besides, the coating is sleek and clean, thereby making the rotor ideal for use in a car having an open wheel style.
Its vane configuration features an OEM design that allows for enhanced heat reduction from the rotors during the braking process. Reduced heating improves the life of the rotor.
No products found.
#2. ACDelco 18A1705 Professional Front Disc Brake Rotor
No products found.ACDelco specializes in manufacturing OEM car parts with innovative design. The ACDelco 18A1705 rotor is designed for installation in the front wheel of both General Motors (GM), and non-GM vehicles.
The rotor is designed to offer reliable braking power. It has a reduced thickness variation that allows for minimized pedal pulsation. The rotor has a smooth, blank finish that allows for less noisy braking and extended life of the brake pads.
The rotor is professionally designed to fit securely in compatible wheels. The steel construction of the rotor allows it to maintain its function and form under frequent and aggressive braking. Additionally, the rotor is designed in such a way that it’s accurately balanced for smoother braking.
Also, the rotor has undergone vibration and harshness testing for reliability in braking. Additionally, it has undergone wear testing for durability. It’s designed to reduce wearing on brake pads such that you won’t replace the rotor and brake pads any time soon.
Moreover, its design makes it adapt to the heat dispersion technique of a specific car manufacturer for prolonged durability.
No products found.
#3. ACDelco 18A925A Brake Rotor
No products found.The ACDelco 18A925A brake rotor is specially designed for the front wheel of both GM and non-GM vehicles. The rotor is made of multiple alloys for enhanced performance and durability. Moreover, the multiple alloys enhance its heat dissipation abilities for longevity of both the disc and the brake pads. It enhances heat dissipation by allowing air to flow around it such that it runs cool.
The rotor is mill-balanced during manufacture. This allows for proper function of the rotor. Additionally, its balanced design makes it operate without vibrations when hitting the brake pedal. The smooth disc surface also prevents the brake pads from wearing out quickly. It comes without any extra weight for enhanced performance.
Its rounded radius allows for greater braking safety and strength. It dampens noise for less noisy braking. Additionally, its vane configuration, thickness, and chamfer angles are designed to match with OEM design.
Its surface finish features a non-directional design. This design makes braking more consistent such that you can slow down your car in time for safety. Additionally, the rotor is made of premium cast iron material for enhanced dependability and performance without sacrificing on crucial features.
No products found.
#4. Callahan CDS02156 REAR Rotors + Brake Pads + Clips
No products found.The Callahan CDS02156 comes as a set of two rear rotors and two front rotors. The rotors are premium grade and feature a combination of both drilled and slotted rotor design. This design allows the discs to dissipate heat by allowing smooth airflow within the rotor when braking. The drilled holes and slots also allow water to escape effortlessly.
The slots are also designed in such a way that they wipe dust and gas from the surface of the brake pads. As a result, the pads press on the rotors more reliably. Besides, the drill holes are chamfered in such a way that they reduce the chances of cracking.
Each rotor is precisely machine for enhanced performance. The rotors are also dynamically balanced for vibration-free braking. Additionally, the rotors are designed to fit into OE dimensions. That way, you’ll find it easier to install and bolt the rotors in place.
Additionally, the rotors have a zinc coating that protects them from rust and corrosion. Thus, the zinc coating makes the rotors last longer. The coating also gives the rotors a stylish look, especially when using rims with an open design.
No products found.
#5. Power Stop K3167 Front Brake Kit
No products found.The Power Stop K3167 brake kit comes with a pair of front rotors. The rotors are designed for use in the front wheel braking system. They’re designed as more efficient and reliable aftermarket rotors. The rotors are designed for noise-free braking such that you will no longer feel irritated or embarrassed when braking.
The rotors are designed to meet OE tolerances for a perfect fit. As a result, you won’t have to make any kind of modifications when installing them. You’ll simply bolt them in place after unpacking them.
Additionally, the rotors are drilled in such a way that they allow for enhanced cooling when braking. Besides, the holes assist in keeping the temperature of the brake pads and rotors low during hot conditions and aggressive braking.
The rotors are also slotted in such a way that they wipe gas and dust off the brake pads and rotors for smoother braking. Additionally, the rotors are plated with silver zinc dichromate plating that looks stylish behind the rims while still keeping them protected from corrosion and rust.
No products found.
#6. Centric 120.40068 Premium Brake Rotor
No products found.Centric is one of the leading manufacturers of aftermarket brake components. The Centric 120.40068 rear rotor is made of premium quality. The rotor comes with an e-coating that keeps it protected from corrosion.
The rotor has a machined finish that gives it a clean look, thereby making your wheels look sleeker. Its finish also makes braking smoother and quieter with reduced pulsating. Additionally, the rotor has core castings that enhance heat transfer away from the rotor surface.
Another noteworthy feature of this rotor is that it’s designed with innovated metallurgy that reduces squealing when the brake pads come into contact with the rotor. Consequently, you’ll enjoy a less noisy braking experience.
No products found.
#7. Callahan Brake Parts CRK14028
No products found.These rotors from Callahan come as a pair of front rotors and another pair of rear rotors. Thus, all your wheels are covered. Each rotor is precisely machine for dynamic balancing. Moreover, the rotors feature a double disc ground build. As a result, you’ll enjoy vibration free braking.
The rotors are design to match with OE dimensions of the compatible vehicles. You won’t have to perform any machining on the rotors before installation. Thus, you’ll find it easier to bolt them in place during installation. Additionally, all the rotors have the same vane count as OEM rotors.
Moreover, the rotors are made of industrial-grade material for durability. Their surface is machined for smoothness and strength to protect them from warping. Additionally, the double discs are vented for enhanced air circulation between the discs, thereby resulting in faster heat dissipation.
No products found.
#8. Raybestos 96711 Advanced Technology Disc Brake Rotor
No products found.Raybestos is yet another leading manufacturer of aftermarket brake parts. The Raybestos 96711 rotor features a non-directional finish that makes it possible to install it without any modification. Thus, you can easily install it by yourself rather than paying a mechanic.
Its professional grade design makes the rotor suitable for braking in daily driving applications. Its fusion coating gives the rotor a finished look that reduces noise when braking. The finished surface also enhances the responsiveness of the braking mechanism.
The rotor comes with an S-groove slot that enhances the contact between the rotor and the brake pads. Consequently, the brake pads bite the rotor more reliably for smoother braking and longevity of the brake pads. Additionally, the coating is able to withstand exposure to water for enhanced rust resistance.
The rotor is also designed to allow for improved airflow, thereby allowing the rotor to remain cool for more effective braking. To add to that, the non-directional rotation of the rotor makes it ideal for use on both rear and front wheels.
No products found.
#9. Detroit Axle – RWD V6
No products found.This brake kit from Detroit Axle comes as a pair of front rotors and a pair of rear rotors. The kit also includes front and rear ceramic brake pads, brake fluid, and brake cleaner spray. Thus, this kit comes with aftermarket brake components that are designed to work together flawlessly.
The rear pair of rotors have a solid edge for stronger braking. On the other hand, the front rotors have a vented edge that allows for enhanced cooling.
All the four rotors feature a combination of drilled and slotted rotor design. The design allows for improved head dissipation and release of water and gas from the rotor surface for more reliable braking.
The rotors are designed to exceed OE standards for enhanced braking. Besides, they’ll easily fit into compatible cars without any modification on the rotors or car wheels.
No products found.
#10. GT//Rotors Performance Brake Disc Rotors & Ceramic Pads
No products found.These brake discs from GT//Rotors are designed for front wheels of compatible cars. The rotors come with a machined finish for enhanced rotor balance. As a result, you’ll enjoy more consistent braking.
The rotors also feature an aluminum and zinc coating that give them a matter gray look. Their polished finish makes it possible to install them without any degreasing or preparation.
Each rotor has a double disc surface. Besides, the disc surface of each rotor is grinded for enhanced parallelism. As a result, run out is eliminated. Their grinded design also allows for an almost perfect thickness variation.
Their high precision design increases their wear resistance properties and enhances heat dissipation to prevent warping. They have undergone several testing methods to guarantee you more reliability in braking.
Besides, the GT//Rotors kit comes with ceramic brake pads that enhance braking power at high speeds. Also, the brake pads are designed to bite on the rotors without squealing. Additionally, the design of the rotors and brake pads minimize dust.
No products found.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a brake rotor?
A brake rotor is a disc that is attached to the wheel system and is pressed by brake pads to slow down and stop the wheels upon stepping on the brake pedal.
What makes a brake rotor wear out?
The metallic finish of rotors works under stress and friction from the brake pads. Thus, it wears out over time. It can also warp over time and lose its circular, flat shape.
What are the cons of using drilled rotors?
Drilled rotors tend to wear unevenly. The drilled holes also make them prone to developing cracks, especially when driving aggressively.
Are slotted rotors more efficient than regular ones?
Slotted rotors have more braking power but wear out faster than regular, blank rotors.
Are coated rotors any better?
Coated rotors are rotors with a treated surface that assist in protecting the disc from rust and corrosion. Thus, they prolong the life of the rotors.
Do drilled rotors wear brake pads faster?
Yes, drilled rotors have holes that tend to grate the brake pads, thereby wearing them out faster than blank rotors.
Final Words
It’s important to replace worn-out brake rotors for the best braking performance. After all, having a functional braking system will make your driving experience safer. Also, it’s important to choose the right brake rotors for your car.
Besides, only choose top-quality rotors for a long-lasting service. You can rest assured that you’ll enjoy a better braking performance by choosing brake rotors from our selection.
Last update on 2023-09-30 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
