Most modern cars are fitted with rear brake discs unlike older models which typically used a drum set up. 

Disc brakes perform better than the older drum counterparts in terms of braking ability, however they don’t last as long as drums. Despite the braking bias being directed primarily towards the front of the car, the rear brakes do wear out.

They also house the handbrake, parking brake or emergency brake. Which makes them a vital component.

When you put pressure on the brake pedal, the brake pads are pressed against the brake rotor which is connected to the wheel. This in turn slows your wheel down at various speeds according to various pressures. 

Your brake pads are made out of a metal composite that is softer than the brake rotor. Over time your brake pads wear down and your braking performance decreases. Your brake rotors, although stronger than your brake pads, will eventually wear down and need replacing too.

What are rear brake pads and brake rotors? 

Inside the brake caliper assembly you have brake pads. These are made out of a composite material which is designed to be softer than the brake rotor. This means that the brake pads wear out before the more expensive rotors do. As they are pressed against the rotors they create friction and this friction slows the wheels and car down. As they wear down due to the friction, they give off a dust which is called brake dust and covers you shiny wheels in grime. 

Behind your wheel you can see a shiny disc which is the brake rotor. Called a ‘rotor’ because it rotates with the wheels. It is usually made out of a steel composite material that is designed to withstand large loads and temperatures. As they go about their job and get put through these high temperatures and wear down.

Your handbrake or parking brake is connected to the rear brakes via a cable and hydraulic system. When you pull the hand brake, it applies force equally to both brake pads. The handbrake can be used to slow you down in an emergency situation which is why they are sometimes called the ‘emergency brake’.

Why do you need rear brake pads and brake rotors? 

In order to stop your vehicle properly you need your brake pads and rotors to be working in harmony and properly. 

If they are worn on a particular side or particularly worn at the front or rear, it can seriously affect your driving ability and safety. New pads and rotors will ensure that your car stops exactly the way you want it to, every time you need it to.

With the added factor of the handbrake/parking brake, you don’t want to risk your car moving while you’ve left it on a steep hill.

What symptoms mean you need new brake pads and brake rotors?

• Braking distance and/or feel is worse than normal
• There is a high pitched squealing noise when braking
• There is noticeable wear marks on your brake rotors
• There is a lot of brake dust on your wheels
• In some higher end vehicles there will be a brake warning light on the dashboard

How are rear brake pads and rear brake rotors replaced?

• The rear wheel lug nuts are loosened and the vehicle is hoisted up
• The rear wheels are removed and the rear brake rotors are checked for wear
• The rear brake pads are checked for wear 
• The handbrake cable is disconnected
• The rear pads and rotors are removed from the wheel hub and caliper
• New brake pads and rotors are installed and the hand brake is reconnected and adjusted 
• The rear wheels are put back on
• The brakes are then bedded in and a full road test is done with varying levels of force and load

How much does brake pad and brake rotor replacement cost?

As with your front brake pads and rotors, it’s a big job that requires a mechanic’s time and expertise. 

Prices can start as low as around $400 but can get above $1000 for a difficult job

How often do I need new rear brake pads and rear brake rotors? 

It’s not a very common replacement, expect to replace your rear brake pads around every 90,000km and rear brake rotors around every 120,000km

Are broken brake pads or broken brake rotors unsafe?

Yes they are, you want your braking system to be working as effectively as possible and keep you as safe as possible. 

If your braking distance is deteriorating or suddenly becomes worse then you should absolutely take your car in to a mechanic to be checked. 

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