1995 Volvo 850 Rusty Brakes?

1995 VOLVO 850
156,000 MILES • 4 CYL • 2WD • AUTOMATIC
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TRACIEMONTGOMERY
  • MEMBER
  • 1 POST
Hello,
We are thinking of buying a used-one owner Volvo 850 wagon. It has obviously been sitting for a while and the owner has maintained everything, including a full brake job 2 years ago. Brakes were fine when used regularly, but now seem a bit crusty, although not weak. A local service station advised that they are rusty and just need to be driven. What do you think?

Thank you,
Tracie.
Jul 15, 2008 at 10:50 AM
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KHLOW2008
  • ✓ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 41,814 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
Hi Tracie,

The brake rotors/drums would get a film of rust if the car is not driven over a period of time.

Normally after driving and using the brakes over some time, the rust should clear off. However if the rotor surface does not become shiny evenly and has some pock marks, it might need to be refaced or replaced.
Jul 16, 2008 at 1:02 PM
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