Changing rotors

gtg737m · Post by **gtg737m** » 12 Apr 2006, 09:18

My steering wheel shakes every time I press on the brakes. I'm thinking I have warped rotors. I was thinking of changing the front rotors and pads. Is this enough to get rid of the problem with the steering wheel or do I need to change the back rotors too. I would appreciate a lot any input I can get on this issue.
Thanks.

Post by **mom** » 12 Apr 2006, 14:15

I would go for the front brakes first. If the rotors are blue, that's a sign of overheating. Look for rust on the sliding pins of the calipers as they should run free. If the pads did not wear equally, look for a bad caliper(cylinder). If not, change the rotors and the pads at the same time and see if that solve your problem.

utvol1984 · Post by **utvol1984** » 13 Apr 2006, 06:58

I am not a Volvo expert but you might consider getting your rotors machined as opposed to replacing them. It's much less expensive than new rotors and as long as they can be machined without going below minimum safe thickness you'll be fine. Opinions differ on the necessity of replacing rotors on Volvos vs. machining them. I tend to think Volvo and parts makers are just trying to sell parts. I've done brakes on dozens of cars and trucks over the years and Volvo is the only one I've heard of that says you have to replace the rotors when you replace the pads. Could be a good reason for it but if there is I haven't heard it yet.

Post by **mom** » 13 Apr 2006, 10:52

I change my rotors every two sets of pads, but in this case, the rotors are warped....and the reason is overheating. So the properties of the metal have changed. Personnally, I would'nt try to machine them. OEM are not so expensive (if you do the job yourself).

utvol1984 · Post by **utvol1984** » 13 Apr 2006, 14:37

Overheating and warping is a very good reason - good point there Mom - and you're right, rotors aren't that expensive as other Volvo parts go.