rotors needed???

sheri · Post by **sheri** » 26 Sep 2011, 14:38

My 2002 S80 needs brake pads. I was told that rorors are needed also. The car stops just fine, but the pads are down to 3mm. There is no rotor cracking or any vibration cause by rotor dstortion. Do the rotors actually wear like the pads, or is the dealer trying to sell me rotors.

Post by **JimBee** » 26 Sep 2011, 17:21

The first thing to check is if there is a ridge around the outside perimeter on the side of the rotor where the brake pads contact. In other words just outside of where the pads contact the side. If there is, that might mean the rotors have been resurfaced (turned down). State laws (I think) prescribe how thick a rotor should be after resurfacing. If the mechanic doesn't think he can get it smooth without making it thinner than the "limit", then they'll want to install new rotors.

The other thing to check for is the inner part of that surface where the pads contact. If it is flat and smooth you can probably use those rotors for a while longer, if they are not warped (the third thing).

As you know, many mechanics will sell you whatever they can to pad the bill. They make a considerable markup on all car parts.

quietlymknnoise · Post by **quietlymknnoise** » 26 Sep 2011, 19:47

I change out my rotors at 98,000 on an '03 C70. They had a good ridge that said they had arrived at the minimum width for safe braking. Went with ATE premium ones and Anabono pads.

sheri · Post by **sheri** » 27 Sep 2011, 14:04

Thank you for your replies. There is a ridge outside of the pad contact area. I was told by the Volvo dealer that this model of factory Volvo rotors cannot be cut. I don't know if that is true.

SimLyons · Post by **SimLyons** » 27 Sep 2011, 15:19

I don't know it that is true, either. All the Volvos I have had (many) have had rotors that are machinable. There will be more guys with more knowledge behind me to answer that specific question. What I WOULD do (if you need to replace the rotors (and pads) is go to IPD or other reputable aftermarket seller and get some decent rotors and pads. Then you will have new ones for probably less than dealer new, probably better quality and can be machined when it is time. If you have questions, call their toll free number and talk with them. Thay are very knowledgable about these things.