Rotors for 2001 Accent

I need to replace the front rotors and pads on my 2001 Accent. The
rotors are rusted and the pads have 25% remaining. Do I get stock
parts or are there better after market rotors which will resist rust?

 

Why are your rotors rusting? Are you not driving the car? A little
surface rust is no big deal, as it will wear off after a stop or two. If
the rotors are deeply pitted, they'll need to be replaced.

Most rotors are cast iron and they'll rust. Steel rotor are somewhat
better, but still rust. I doubt that you'd be able to find stainless
steel rotors for an Accent, though they are available for some cars.

Rotors are available anywhere and aftermarket cast iron rotors are
inexpensive (~$20-$25 each). Aftermarket OEM-spec brake pads run
~$15-$25. You don't need OEM parts and they'll cost a lot more.

 

You are correct. The rust only affects the initial stop or two during
damp weather. The rotor surface where the pads make contact are shiny
but it is a different story near the center. I see more rust buildup
on the side underneath the car.

Are the nickel plating & cadmium plating brake rotor any better than
the cast iron?

 

Why are you worried about this rust? If it isn't on the swept area of
the rotor, then it generally isn't anything to worry about.


Matt

 

It is the results of a 50000 km brake inspection. I was shown the rust
and it was recommended that I replace the rotors and pads. They seem
to work fine for now.

 

Replacement recommended by a dealer or an independant shop?

 

Was this recommendation from a Hyundai dealer or a Monro, Midas, etc.,
that specialize in brake jobs and, in my opinion, ripping off the
unsuspecting. Unless the rust is so severe that the mechanical
integrity of the rotor is in question, or it is abrading the pads
severely, then it simply isn't an issue. My 1994 K1500 Chevy truck
still has its original rusted rotors and drums at nearly 100,000 miles
and 12 PA winters!

Matt

 

Cast iron rusts. Unless they can show you that parts are thinner than spec
or have warping, they are probably more interested in selling parts for
profit than your well being.

 

Do your brakes work well? That's what really matters. It sounds like the
dealer/shop is just trying to scare you into an unnecessary, expensive
repair. It's a VERY common practice, unfortunately. Unless you're
feeling a vibration/pulsation when braking normally, there's nothing
wrong with your rotors. Based on your original post, I would expect that
you'll need to replace the pads within the next 10K miles. It's a simple
DIY operation that you could do now if it makes you feel better.