Disc rotors

STEINY98

MEMBER
VOLKSWAGEN

I have an '01 Jetta GLX (VR6) - 4 wheel disc brakes with 65,000 miles. I have had the car serviced every 5000 miles as the dealer suggests. Recently during the 60K tune-up they suggested I replace my brake pads AND rotors! The pads have been monitored the entire time I have owned this car so there should not be any metal on metal wear. I asked the dealer why they needed to replace the rotors too and he said VW rotors are consumable and need replacing. Does this seem right? Should I just take it in somewhere else to get pads replaced? Also, this is my second VW and both cars generate an unusually high amount of brake dust over the front rims. Should I look into dustless pads to correct this?

1 Reply

GEEKBOYWONDER

MEMBER
6 POSTS

"Dustless" pads are up to you- no downside other than the price.

Regarding rotors. Rotors are consumable, but how long they should last cannot be known- their life is based on driving style, and any number of other factors.

Volkswagen should publish specs for rotor thickness, a smooth, well cared for rotor that is thinner than manufacturer's specs should be replaced, as the failure mode can be rather unpleasant. Don't dink around with brakes.

If you are unsure about your mechanic, hit google, the library or the dealer to find out the minimum acceptable thickness for your make/model, then ask the mechanic to mic out the rotor in your presence.

65k is not out of line for rotor replacement, but the only objectice indicator is to measure the rotor's thickness.