Iowa Automotive Machine & Supply Inc.: Brake Rotors
Ready to buy a new set of brake rotors but confused about what type of rotor would work best for your car or driving style? Come by Iowa Automotive Machine & Supply Inc. at 1705 W Main St or call 712-662-4738 and our auto parts specialist will be happy to help you select new brake rotors.
Four Types Of Brake Rotors
- Blank - Features a smooth surface
- Drilled - Offers multiple holes drilled into the surface of the rotor for better "bite"
- Slotted - Has the appearance of smooth grooves that cover the diameter of the brake rotor
- Drilled and Slotted - Offers the benefits of both drilled and slotted brake rotors combined in one
Most OEM factory installed brake systems use a blank rotor. But some high-performance cars or heavy-duty trucks use slotted and drilled brake rotors. Slotted grooves or drilled holes are used to vent heat away from the brake pad. As the rotor spins, heat build-up escapes. By removing extra heat the brakes may perform better under challenging conditions.
6 Reasons To Choose A Blank Smooth Brake Rotor or OEM Brake Rotor
- Most common brake rotor used by most car manufacturers
- Very cost-effective
- Preferred by "around town" luxury car drivers and long-distance endurance racers
- Quiet - smooth blank brake rotors produce very little street noise or rumble
- Produces very little brake dust but may increase brake pad glazing
- Lasts longer than other brake types
6 Reasons To Choose Drilled Rotors
- Great for general use in street vehicles
- Best known for performing well when raining because drilled holes give the water a place to escape
- Holds up well over the life of the brake rotors
- Delivers more friction causing the brake rotor to dry off quickly in wet conditions
- Wears unevenly and may require frequent maintenance
- Develops cracks when used for racing because the brake rotor cannot withstand repeated heat and cool cycles
6 Reasons To Choose Slotted Rotors
- Great for heavy trucks, SUVs, off-road vehicles, tow trucks, and competition race cars
- Cools brake rotors and pads quickly as slots remove heat each time the rotor spins
- Delivers improved consistency with every stop, by distributing the friction on the brake pads
- Slots shave off brake pad glaze to expose fresh material each time you brake. However, this benefit can also mean replacing your brake pads more often
- Drivers who enjoy feeling connected to the road may like the rumble and noise created by slotted rotors
- Offers fewer issues with cracks than drilled brake rotors
6 Reasons To Choose Drilled And Slotted Rotors
- Works well in wet climates
- The most commonly used brake rotor on Mercedes, BMW, and other high-performance luxury cars.
- Great for tow trucks and vehicles carrying heavy loads where more energy is needed to come to a complete stop
- The surface is vulnerable to cracking under extreme racing and track conditions
- May wear unevenly and may require frequent maintenance
- The rumbling noise generated by the brake rotors are an acceptable trade-off for increased performance for many driving enthusiasts
