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What are signs that you have bad rotors?

Here are some potential signs that your rotors may be warped or damaged:

1. Pulsations or Vibrations When Braking: When you apply the brakes, you may feel a noticeable pulsation or vibration through the brake pedal and steering wheel.

2. Grinding or Squealing Noises: Damaged or warped rotors can create excessive friction with the brake pads, resulting in a grinding or squealing sound when you brake.

3. Uneven Brake Pad Wear: If your brake rotors are not flat and aligned, it can cause uneven wear on the brake pads. Inspect the brake pads visually to check if they are wearing evenly.

4. Reduced Braking Effectiveness: When rotors are warped, the brake pads cannot make uniform contact with them, resulting in reduced braking effectiveness. You may need to apply more force on the brake pedal or experience longer stopping distances.

5. Steering Wheel Shake: Excessive vibration from warped rotors can be amplified and felt in the steering wheel, especially at higher speeds.

6. Visible Signs of Damage: If you can safely inspect your rotors visually, you can look for grooves, cracks, or distortions on the rotor surface that might indicate damage. It's recommended to refer to your vehicle's owner's manual for proper procedures or seek the advice of a qualified mechanic.

Note: If you experience any of these signs, it's crucial to get your vehicle inspected and have the rotors checked by a professional mechanic as soon as possible. Warped rotors can affect braking performance and safety.