When we talk about a motorized vehicle or car, the first thing that should concern us is how safe it is. And safety is determined by how efficient the braking system is. Now again, when we talk about the brake, we kind of forget that the mechanism has anything more than just the brake shoes.
In fact, brake rotors, the metal disks that the pad keeps squeezing on when we press on the brake pedal, are equally important for the optimum braking performance of a car.
Over time, the force of friction causes the rotor to wear requiring a replacement. Most drivers are quick to replace the brake pads but forget about the other. However, every rotor has it’s own thickness standard within which it functions at its top. You must replace it when it’s time.
Today, we’ll talk about the best brake rotors of the market and help you choose the right one from hundreds of alternatives. Make sure you read carefully so you don’t miss out on the in-depth analysis and maintenance tips.
Best Brake Rotors – Detailed Reviews
01 ACDelco 18A925A Advantage (Editor’s Choice)
ACDelco is one of the world’s leading manufacturers of high-quality motor parts including brake components. The ACDelco 18A925A is made with many alloys to enhance the escape of heat making you enjoy safe, smooth, and reliable operation.
This model comes with a mill balance for optimum rotor performance which in turn, removes the need for extra weights. It weighs 19.3 pounds and measures 12.33 x 12.33 x 3 inches. With such thickness, you’ll not need an extra part to enhance its efficiency when used on the front wheels.
Also, it uses an application-oriented vane configuration that offers greater safety, less noise, and power-braking. Besides, its design ensures good airflow that helps in its longevity by maintaining the optimum temperature. Besides, this model comes with a very economic price tag compared to the other products with similar features.
The ACDelco 18A925A features a non-directional finish that helps to extend brake pads’ life. The only thing we didn’t like about this rotor was the fact that there was no coating. But it comes with a 12-month long unlimited warranty, which is the manufacturer’s way of ensuring that you enjoy your purchase.
Considering all, you’re getting a dependable brake rotor at a cheap rate. But always check out your vehicle’s torque specifications to avoid errors and difficulties when replacing the rotor.
Pros
- Exceptional heat management
- Specialized finish to reduce vibration
- Delivers safe and noiseless operation
- Easily affordable
- Provides optimum airflow
Cons
- May rust over time due to lack of coating
Our Verdict
If you’re looking for a well-made brake rotor at a cheap price, here is the best model for you. Although it is the least in cost, it has many nice features. It comes with a one-year warranty to build your confidence in the product and the brand. This model is engineered to suppress vibration and noise like no other. Besides, it uses a non-directional finish to create passages for airflow. All things considered, you can go for this brake rotor any day of the week.
02 Bosch 26010746 QuietCast
The Bosch 26010746 is accurately designed to offer you a smooth and reliable braking operation. It uses an OEM style vane configuration which provides sufficient heat dissipation. This helps to reduce vibration, friction, and unwanted sounds.
The G3000 heat-flowed casting that’s adopted by Bosch helps reduce wear, which results in longer rotor life and noiseless operation. Its surface is coated with aluminum and zinc alloy to enhance its appearance and also prevent corrosion. So, if you’re a lover of clean looks, this is your ideal choice.
The Bosch 26010746 is known for strength and durability and you’ll hardly find these attributes in models in its price range. Yet, it is made to provide consistent safety and high performance, boosting your confidence while on the wheel as a result.
It uses OEM-style ABS sensor rings that deliver pulse-free operation in both anti-lock brakes and traction control systems. It weighs 13.07 pounds with dimensions of 13.6 x 13.2 x 2.8 inches and the factory-engraved edge code allows for proper authentication of the specification.
Though the Bosch 26010726 comes way cheaper than all the other products on the list, it certainly doesn’t fall behind in terms of performance. All the components are produced from top-shelf materials to enhance your braking experience. It’s worth noting that the coating on this rotor may prevent your emergency brake from holding right. But you can overlook this since it’ll improve with continuous use even as the coating wears out.
Pros
- Efficient heat dissipation
- Precision balanced ensuring smooth operation
- Smooth pedal feel
- Heat flowed castings for longer life
- Very attractive
- Resistant to rust and corrosion
Cons
- The emergency brake may not perform well at first
Our Verdict
The fact that this brake rotor uses an OEM style configuration and heat-flowed castings makes it a great choice for the price. It offers efficient heat dissipation and trouble-free operation. The aluminum-zinc coating on the surface helps enhance its appearance and prolongs the lifespan as well. This model is worth a try because of its ability to deliver consistent quiet and vibration-free operation. If you’re in the market for a brake rotor that offers maximum value for your money, the Bosch 26010726 is your best bet.
03 ACDelco 18A1705 (Front Disc Rotor)
This is another reliable, and durable rotor from the ACDelco production line. The 18A1705 model is one of the reasons they’re the favorite brand for most drivers. One of its greatest advantages is its thickness variation that is less than 0.004 to prolong the brake pad’s life and also limit pedal pulsation. Besides, it’s designed with SAE standard materials for guaranteed performance.
Another great feature is its ease of installation because it doesn’t need machining making it the ideal option for DIY drivers. This model weighs 26 pounds with dimensions 13.3 x 13.3 x 2.9 inches. Also, they are inspected for balance to ensure that it delivers smooth and noise-free operation.
It is important to know that there is no coating on the external surface and the price is only for a single front rotor. Yet, it is manufactured to meet your expectations for function, fit, form, and performance.
Pros
- High-quality material
- Less noise
- Vibration reduction
- Very durable
- Balanced and smooth brake operation
- Extended brake pads life
Cons
- No coating on the exterior
- Relatively expensive
Our Verdict
ACDelco 18A1705 is the perfect rotor replacement for sale for many vehicles on the road. It offers smooth and reliable braking power with reduced thickness to increase pads’ lifespan. Also, it’s machined to minimize pedal pulsation, vibration, and noise. It’s a high-performance aftermarket front rotor that you’ll not regret buying.
04 ACDelco 18A2497
Brakes are one area in your vehicle that requires great attention which is the reason you’ll need the right rotors when replacing. The ACDelco 18A2497 is an ideal brake rotor for the professionals because of its improved designs and performance.
The aspects that were tested included harshness, vibration, and noise. So, you can be sure that this guarantees easy and smooth operation when used within its limits. This rotor is made to improve the quick dissipation of heat making it safe, durable, and reliable for use.
Added to its top-quality construction is a 2-year warranty that isn’t limited to the number of miles you’ve covered. Being interchangeable, you can use it in either left or right without experiencing any shift in its performance. No coating on the exterior but the centers are painted to prevent corrosion.
Pros
- Fits perfectly
- Easy to install
- High performance output
- Suitable for both front sides
- Comes with a retaining screw
Cons
- May rust with time since it’s not coated
Our Verdict
This is one of the top Brake Rotors for the money with designs to prevent overheating resulting in enhanced functionality. It’s made from high-quality materials that have been tested and found to offer smooth performance resulting in longer life for the brake pads. So, if you want a rotor that’ll meet your needs as a professional, this one’s for you.
05 SHIMANO XT SM-RT86 Rotor-6-Bolt
If you’re interested in a model that will provide the needed braking efficiency on your bike, this rotor is yours to get. It has solid construction using the aluminum core to keep heat away from the brake calipers and prevent any untimely decay of the brake pads.
It comes with an attachment bolt and weighs 8.8 ounces with measurements 9 x 8 x 1 inch. This unit is easy to install and works perfectly despite the terrain or temperature.
Besides, it offers good modulation with the ability to clamp down hard at any time. It’s durable, produces zero-noise and also provides high braking power in a hill or steep area. The only thing that we didn’t like in this model is its inability to be used in top-mounted brakes since the hub will not align with the caliper standoffs. So, this is an excellent choice for persons with side mount brakes.
Pros
- High-quality construction
- Suitable for mountain bikes
- Good braking efficiency
- Delivers a vibration-free operation
- Light in weight
- Fantastic stopping and modulation
Cons
- Not compatible with top mount brakes
Our Verdict
This is a superb replacement brake rotor for both off-road and mountain bikes. They’re easy to install and work perfectly in all conditions. It’s made from high-quality material to enhance its durability and dependability. Heat dissipation is excellent thanks to its aluminum core that takes the heat away from the calipers resulting in better brake pads’ life.
06 ACDelco 18A812A Advantage Non-Coated
ACDelco is the maker of some of the top-rated rotors that ply our roads every day. Like many rotors from ACDelco, the 18A1424A also has a tough build. This often results in better heat dissipation, durability, and performance.
This model is mil-balanced for proper functioning. It also eliminates the need to add more weight to the wheels which could be very uncomfortable. Besides, it is tested and proven to possess the correct brake plate thickness for an excellent performance.
It also features a rounded radius to improve its strength. The non-directional finish ensures a 0.004 thickness variation to enhance the lifespan of the brake pads. Besides, it uses a vane configuration that qualifies it as one of the most efficient brake rotors available as it reduces noise while enhancing your safety on the road.
The only complaint we have against this model is its lack of coating which makes it prone to rust over time. Yet, this is one of the few cheap brake rotors with the ability to deliver a satisfactory aftermarket experience.
Pros
- Good heat dissipation
- Made from alloys of high-grade metals
- The rounded radius for more strength
- Tested and guaranteed for performance
- Delivers noise-free and less vibration operation
- Easy to install and use
Cons
- May rust over time due to lack of coating
Our Verdict
This is an excellent rotor from ACDelco that is designed to offer superb and satisfying braking operation. It’s made from a combination of different alloys to prevent overheating and also enhance its smooth performance. The non-directional finish helps to minimize the differentials in thickness. Since it’s durable, affordable, and easy to install, then, it’s worth buying.
07 Power Stop K1970 Front Z23 Evolution Brake Kit
If you intend to increase your braking power, then the Power Stop K1970 rotor is the kit to buy. It is made to deliver low dust and noise-free operation. This rotor is drilled and perfectly slotted so that you can enjoy the benefits of combining these rotor types.
Still, on the design, the holes help keep the rotors cool by lowering the temperature during a high-speed braking operation. The slots allow for the escape of gas and debris making the rotor surface clean and clear for a smooth braking operation.
Also, it features Zinc Dichromate coating on the surface that enhances its looks on the wheels while preventing the formation of rust and corrosion. It comes with dual-layer rubberized shims that reduce noise and also enhance performance. Again, they’re formed from high-grade carbon-fiber ceramic compounds to enhance its durability.
The Power Stop K1970 rotor features G3000 metallurgy with strict compliance with OE standards making it easy to install as it is from the box. This kit contains carbon-fiber ceramic brake pads that provide dust and noise-free operation resulting in better braking power. Other accessories in the package include installation hardware and brake lubricant.
Pros
- Very reliable with high-performance
- Rubberized shims to prevent noise
- Drilled and slotted rotors to enhance cooling and escape of gas
- Zinc plated surface to protect against rust
- Engineered to eliminate rust
- Easy to install
Cons
- Too expensive for most users.
Our Verdict
These are matched rotors with holes and slots that prevent the buildup of heat or debris. It features two carbon fiber pads that are specially formulated to provide a dust-free and noiseless operation. So, if you want to experience high-braking power without sacrificing your momentum, look beyond the price and buy it.
08 ACDelco 18A1424A Advantage Non-Coated
ACDelco is the maker of many top-rated rotors that ply our roads every day. Like many rotors from ACDelco, the 18A1424A is also a product of many alloys. This often results in better heat dissipation, durability, and performance.
This model is mil-balanced for better functioning. It also eliminates the need to add more weight to the wheels which could be uncomfortable. Besides, it is tested and proven to possess the correct brake plate thickness for excellent performance.
It also features a rounded radius to improve its strength. The non-directional finish ensures a 0.004 thickness variation to enhance the lifespan of the brake pads. Besides, it uses a vane configuration that qualifies it as one of the best options available as it reduces noise while enhancing your safety on the road.
The only complaint we have against this model is its lack of coating which makes it prone to rust over time. Yet, this is one of the few cheap brake rotors with the ability to deliver a satisfactory aftermarket experience.
Pros
- Good heat dissipation
- Made from alloys of high-grade metals
- The rounded radius for more strength
- Tested and guaranteed for performance
- Delivers noise-free and less vibration operation
- Easy to install and use
Cons
- May rust over time due to lack of coating
Our Verdict
This is an excellent product from ACDelco that is designed to offer superb and satisfying braking operations. It’s made from a combination of different alloys to prevent overheating and also enhance its smooth performance. The non-directional finish helps to minimize the differentials in thickness. Since it’s durable, affordable, and easy to install, then, it’s worth buying.
09 Centric Parts 120.44146 Premium Brake Rotor
If you need a well-made brake rotor that’ll withstand corrosion and rust for long, the Centric 120.44146 is for you. It comes with an electro-statically applied finish that is untarnished that remains the same even after repeated exposure to saltwater.
This model comes with a dual-disc clearance allowing it to deliver smoother and quieter stops which is the desire of most vehicle owners. Besides, it’s attractive machined finish makes it one of the highest-rated rotors for persons who prefer the looks of clean wheels.
Another thing that we appreciate is its use of center-split core casting that helps in smooth heat transfer between the pads and rotor. This results in better performance and durability of the brake pads. Also, it features a non-directional ground finish that reduces friction between the pads resulting in a vibration-free operation.
It’s important to check the fit of your car before placing an order. Yet, this model can function in many vehicles. It’s worth noting that the installation can be a bit difficult which you’ll need to master the bolt trick to succeed.
Pros
- Durable rust prevention coating
- Machined finish to enhance the appearance
- Smooth and quiet operation
- Center-split casting to improve cooling
- Non-directional finish for less friction
Cons
- The need for bolt trick to install
Our Verdict
This model is constructed to withstand long hours of exposure to saltwater thanks to its E-coated surface. The center-split casting allows for easy dissipation of heat that prevents the eventual cracking of the rotor plates. For a long-lasting service with a quiet and smooth performance at a good price,your search ends here.
10 ACDelco 18A875A Rear Disc Brake Rotor
If you need a good replacement for your vehicle’s rear rotors, the ACDelco 18A875A is an excellent model for you. To ensure that you enjoy the superb performance and heat transfer, this model is made from many alloys and the radius is also rounded to make it stronger.
Again, it is mill-balanced to improve performance and also eliminate the need for extra weight to keep the vehicle balanced. Besides, it is designed following the standard thickness rating to ease its process of installation.
The ACDelco 18A875A weighs 15.3 pounds with dimensions of 13 x 12.25 x 4 inches that allow you to fit many vehicle models. It also features the popular application-vane configuration that provides greater performance, safety, and improved airflow which results in smoother and quieter operation. It comes with a 12-month warranty which is an extra advantage since it’s without an external coating that helps in preventing corrosion.
Pros
- Comes with a warranty
- Provides better airflow for cooling
- Operation is smooth and quiet
- Can fit many vehicle types
- Ideal for rear wheels
- The rounded radius for extra strength
Cons
- No external coating.
Our Verdict
This model offers the advantage of good quality, durability, and performance at a competitive price. It’s designed to eliminate pedal-pulsating and other failures that are associated with most aftermarket rotors. If you intend to save money with a machined rotor for your rear wheels, here is your perfect selection.
How Does a Brake Rotor Work?
Brake rotors are disc-like metals on the wheels of the vehicle which you’ll see clearly by removing the tires. They connect the wheel to the axle and helps to slow and stop the vehicle. Many of them are made from cast iron, steel, and ceramic composites. Despite being made from a range of tough materials, they are formed from precision cutting.
So, how does the braking system work?
All braking systems have calipers that hold the brake pads. By engaging the brake pedal you’re pulling the caliper which in turn, pushes the brake pads together. The coming together of the two brake pads against the rotor will create a frictional force that tries to stop the spinning tires. Upon the release of the pedals, the caliper and the brake pads open, freeing the brake rotors for the vehicle to move again.
Best Brake Rotors Reviews [Buying Guide]
Since rotors are among the most important parts of your vehicle’s braking system and since they wear over time due to friction, it’s necessary to be serious when considering a replacement.
1. Purpose of your vehicle
How and what you use your vehicle for is very important when buying a brake rotor. Here is a list of Brake Rotors for a commuter, towing, off-road, and street performance vehicles.
Commuting
In reality, there is no special brake rotor for commuting vehicles because you can use any good quality OEM rotor. Yet, if you’re in the habit of carrying more load in your vehicle and cruising the steep roads, then, drilled rotors will be ideal.
Towing
Towing is like loading your vehicle when traveling on a hilly road. Once this happens, there is no doubt that the braking system will develop heat. So, you’ll need to buy drilled brake rotors for this purpose.
Off-road
If you’re going through rough tracks like deserts or an area with many potholes, it’s ideal to avoid conventional rotors. This is because the clogs on the wheel often result in poor performance. So, you’ll need to buy either slotted or drilled rotors for off-road rides.
Racing & Street Performance
Racing vehicles are often associated with speed-brakes and sharp turns which generates more heat. The only rotor type that will meet your vehicle’s demands is the drilled brake rotor.
2. Type of rotors
Before you buy a new brake rotor, it’s important to know their types and how they can affect your vehicle’s performance. The different rotor types are smooth, drilled, and slotted.
Smooth
These are the most common rotors on the market. They have smooth surfaces that are without holes or markings. So, you’ll appreciate their efficacy during daily driving under normal conditions. They’re ideal for low-class vehicles and seldom produce noise or dust when operating. Smooth brake rotors are cheap, long-lasting, and are perfect for less aggressive driving.
Drilled
These rotors have holes on the surface that makes for quick dissipation of heat since the buildup of heat could result in cracks. Besides, if you’re driving in the rain, the wheels will remain dry since the water will flow through the holes.
The only disadvantage with this rotor type is that the holes will reduce the binding force between the pads and the rotor. And this could limit the performance even though it’s a minor drawback considering other benefits.
Slotted
These are brake rotors with lines or markings to quicker heat transfer and removal of water. They’re suitable for powerful vehicles that apply high-speed brakes which often increase the system’s stress level. Such high-performance vehicles can’t use drilled rotors since the braking system will likely fail. The slotted rotors are often expensive and tend to wear faster than drilled types.
Drilled Slotted
These rotors have both slots and holes on the surface. They allow you to enjoy the benefits of having a slotted and drilled rotor in one piece. They’re the most efficient but very expensive.
Bicycle Rotor
Now-a-days, very much like motorcycles with disk braking systems, advanced bicycles including Mountain Bikes (MTB), Road Bikes, and Cruisers Bikes have brake rotors for their disk braking system. This is because, by definition a rotor is essential for a disc braking system. These bicycle rotors have lesser thickness. Common sizes include–140mm,160mm, 180mm, 200mm, 203mm, and 220mm.
3. Material & Color
Brake rotors are mostly made from metals like cast iron, aluminum, and steel, but you’ll also find ones from carbon or ceramic materials. We can’t say which material is ideal since they have their merits and demerits.
Cast iron rotors will perform excellently in heavy-duty trucks, but can’t withstand much heat and may even break. Yet, stainless steel rotors are good with heat and also light in weight, but aren’t as durable as cast iron rotors.
For higher quality and performance you’ll find titanium rotors that would be expensive. There are companies that offer custom made rotors where you can select your material they would use for your kit.
You can select your model from tons of colors matching the color of your vehicles. Popular colors include black, red, cream, cyan, yellow and blue.
4. Ease of Installation
If you’re installing the brake rotors yourself, then it’s essential to buy one with simple installation steps. Smooth rotors are easier to install than the slotted and drilled types. You’ll find some help by watching videos online and adhering to the manufacturer’s installation guide.
5. Budget
When buying a brake rotor for your vehicle, it’s important to get one that’ll provide good value for the money. You may not have to focus on extremely cheap models since their quality is often low, neither do we recommend the high-priced models. It’s better to opt for the top-rated brands with a reasonable price range since their features are more dependable.
When to Replace Your Brake Rotors?
Sometimes, it’s difficult to know if your vehicle needs a rotor resurfacing or turning or an entire replacement by simply inspecting the wear. To clear all doubts, here are the top signs that will help you know when it’s time for a new rotor.
- Rust – Although it’s normal for rust to appear on rotors since they’re mostly made from cast iron. A rusty and pitted kit would be subjected to fast wearing, so it’s ideal to do replacement as soon as too much rust is detected.
- Measure the wear – you can use a micrometer to know the extent of the wear on the rotor and it will show the exact thickness variations in millimeters that resulted from wear and tear. Try to measure from the position of contact between the brake pads and the rotor. If there is a great difference between the measured rotor thickness and the original, then you need a new one. Also, if there are many uneven wears, it should be replaced.
- Pay attention to odd sounds – If you hear some unwanted sounds while engaging the brake pedal, it’s trying to warn you about a problem with the brake pad or rotor. If this sound persists, then you’ll need a rotor or pad replacement to prevent a complete breakdown of the braking parts. High-pitched sounds are the results of uneven friction between the pad and the brake rotors which are caused by markings on the rotors. Once these markings produced by a decaying brake pad become too deep, it means the rotor must be changed.
- Notice of vibration: A warped brake rotor or bad tire will cause excessive shaking of your vehicle once you apply the brakes. If the problem is from the rotor, then its surface is no longer even and should be replaced.
Do note that you may not get the genuine rotor replacement from your vehicle manufacturer all the time. In that case, you’ll have to buy one from a third-person manufacturer.
Brake Rotors Maintenance Tips
Once you’ve seen the right rotor to buy, the next thing is knowing how to keep it in good condition to prolong its life. The following tips will help you in the proper maintenance of these rotors.
- Check your brake fluid – the function of this fluid is to reduce friction between the pad and the rotors. So, it’s important to check if it’s in good condition and also if it’s at the appropriate level.
- Change the brake fluid – Once your brake fluid becomes milky in color, then it’s been contaminated and no longer fit for use. Refusal to change a bad brake fluid might destroy your wheel cylinder or master cylinder.
- Change the brake rotor if it reaches its breaking point.
- Add new fluid – Change your vehicle’s brake fluid by emptying the master cylinder and then add a new lubricant.
- Bleed your brake lines – this is the process of removing air from the brake pipes. This task involves two persons so that when one is pumping the brakes, the other is watching the valve to cover it once the oil begins to flow.
- Inspect the brake pads and rotors – you’ll only be able to look at the brake pads to know its condition after removing the tires. So, if there is too much wear on the pad such that only a little portion is left, then it needs a replacement.
A Word from GearbikesReview
Brake rotors are among the most essential components in your vehicle and demand caution when buying. The fact is, a great percentage of your safety and performance on the road is linked to the condition of your braking system which is the reason you must pay attention to choosing the Best Brake Rotors.
Sometimes you might want to replace it with the same rotor type that came with your vehicle. But, if you want a better braking experience from what you’ve had so far, then you need to get something different. It’s often important to know your car type and its purpose to buy the rotor that will be the perfect fit.
We’re hopeful that this buying guide will provide the help you need when shopping for the model that suits your preference.
