How Much Does Resurfacing Brake Rotors Cost?

Last Updated on February 6, 2024
Written by CPA Alec Pow | Content Reviewed by CFA Alexander Popinker

If you’ve noticed signs of worn brake rotors like vibration or squealing when braking, you may be wondering whether to resurface or replace them. Knowing the average brake rotor resurfacing cost can help you decide which option is more affordable.

This article will cover everything you need to know, from defining the resurfacing process to comparing DIY versus professional service. Read on to learn the factors that influence cost, how to inspect rotors, and tips for getting the best deal on rotor resurfacing.

Brake rotor resurfacing, also known as machining or skimming, is an essential maintenance task to keep your brakes performing safely. By smoothing and refinishing the rotor’s friction surface, it can extend the life of your rotors and restore optimal braking power.

How Much Does Resurfacing Brake Rotors Cost?

The average cost for professional resurfacing on two front or rear rotors ranges from $40 to $150 per axle, depending on the make and model of vehicle. This is often cheaper than replacing rotors, making it a budget-friendly option.

AutoRepairMechanic.shop, for example, says that the approximate brake rotor and brake drum resurfacing costs $50 – $60 per side. The approximate brake discs or drums replacement costs $150 – $700 per side.

According to AutoZone.com, rotor resurfacing costs vary based on location and vehicle type, but they typically range from $15 to $40 per rotor.

CarAdvise.com writes that the national cost for a brake rotor resurfacing with CarAdvise in 2024 is between $20 and $58, with an average of $36.

What is Brake Rotor Resurfacing?

Brake rotor resurfacing is a process of shaving off a thin layer of metal from the rotor disc to create a smooth, even surface for brake pads to grip. It removes grooves, imperfections, and warps that can cause brake pulsation, vibration, and squeaking. Resurfacing also restores the proper thickness of the rotor within specified limits.

The technician will use a brake lathe to cut and level the rotor surface to OEM specifications. Newer on-car lathes perform resurfacing without removing the rotor. Older off-car lathes require fully removing the rotor from the car to machine it.

Resurfacing is recommended when rotors show signs of wear but are still thick enough for safe braking. Machining can prolong rotor life for 20,000 to 40,000 more miles before reaching the minimum thickness for replacement.

Benefits of Resurfacing Brake Rotors

• Saves money compared to replacement – The average cost to resurface rotors is $150 or less per axle, while replacement rotors can cost $300 or more.
• Extends rotor life – Machining removes only a fraction of material versus replacement. Rotors can often be resurfaced 1-3 times before needing replacement.
• Restores brake performance – Smoothing the friction surface reduces pulsation, vibration, and squealing for quiet, smooth stops.
• Avoids premature replacement – Resurfacing eliminates warping to safely prolong rotor life beyond factory thickness specs.
• Uses existing rotors – No need to purchase new rotors if the current ones are in good condition overall.

Factors Influencing Resurfacing Cost

The range of $40 to $150 per axle for rotor resurfacing depends on several factors:

• Vehicle make and model – Larger truck or SUV rotors cost more to resurface than smaller car rotors. Luxury and performance brands also tend to cost more.
• Machining method – On-car lathes tend to cost less labor than removing the rotors for off-car resurfacing.
• Additional repairs needed – Cost increases if calipers, brake lines, or other components need work.
• Region and shop rates – Labor and facility rates vary across different cities and shops. Dealerships charge the most while independent shops offer lower rates.
• Rotor finish – A basic single-plane cut costs less than a crosshatch pattern or thin-layer graphite coating.
• Number of rotors – Per axle rates assume both front or rear rotors. Additional rotors add cost.

You might also like our articles about the cost of brake replacement, flywheel replacement, or wheel balancing.

How to Determine if Your Rotors Need Resurfacing

Watch for these common signs of worn rotors that indicate resurfacing is needed:

• Brake pulsation – The steering wheel or whole vehicle vibrates when braking
• High-pitched squealing or squeaking

-Visible thickness variation or grooves in rotor surface

• Steering wheel shake when braking
• Uneven or rapid brake pad wear

Have a professional technician complete a thorough brake inspection and measure rotor thickness. Factory minimum thicknesses are typically 22-26 mm depending on vehicle. Thickness must remain above min specs after resurfacing.

The mechanic will also check runout and lateral runout with a dial indicator to check for warping or variations in the rotor that require machining.

DIY vs. Professional Resurfacing

You can resurface rotors yourself using a rented or purchased brake lathe. However, DIY resurfacing has some disadvantages:

• Special equipment needed – Lathes are expensive and challenging for amateurs to operate safely
• Precision difficulty – Hard to consistently achieve OEM-level surface finish and tolerances
• No thickness measurement – Unable to precisely measure if rotors are too thin for machining

The benefits of professional resurfacing include:

• Proper equipment and training – Shops have commercial-grade brake lathes and experienced technicians
• Consistent OEM tolerances – Smooth, even surface finish that meets factory specifications
• Thickness measurement – Ability to measure if rotors are too thin for machining
• Additional brake system diagnosis – Can identify other maintenance needs like calipers or hoses

For most vehicle owners, paying a professional for proper brake rotor resurfacing is worth the cost and safety assurance.

Choosing the Right Service Center

Find an affordable, quality shop for brake rotor resurfacing by:

• Comparing rates between local mechanics and national chains
• Asking if they use modern on-car lathes to minimize labor
• Checking for positive customer reviews related to brake repairs
• Requesting an upfront written estimate before authorizing work
• Inquiring about warranties that cover their machining workmanship

When dropping off your vehicle, share key details and ask questions:

• Inform if rotors have been previously resurfaced
• Ask them to measure rotor thickness and runout
• Request OEM-level surface finish and tolerances
• Confirm the total resurfacing price for accurate budgeting

How to Spend Less on Brake Rotor Resurfacing

Some tips for minimizing your rotor machining costs include:

• Shop around for the best labor rates if time allows
• Ask about on-car lathe pricing – it saves on removal/reinstall time
• Consider machining just problem rotors first if only one axle is affected
• Resurface rotors as soon as issues appear to maximize material removal
• Bundle machining service with regularly scheduled maintenance to save on labor
• Use discounts and coupons if available at national brake service chains
• Avoid dealership rates by using reputable independent shops instead

Conclusion

Regular brake rotor resurfacing is vital for safe, quiet braking, and can save you money compared to replacement rotors. While the average cost is $40-$150 per axle, the exact price depends on your vehicle, shop rates, and necessary repairs.

Watch for signs of worn rotors like vibration and get a professional inspection. With some smart shopping, you can find affordable rotor resurfacing and extend the life of your brake system.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is it worth resurfacing brake rotors?

Yes, resurfacing brake rotors is usually worth the cost. It extends the life of your existing rotors and improves brake performance by smoothing the friction surface.

Resurfacing costs considerably less than replacement rotors in most cases. As long as rotor thickness remains above the minimum specification, rotors can typically be resurfaced at least once or twice before needing replacement.

What are the disadvantages of resurfacing rotors?

A few potential disadvantages include removing more rotor material than may be necessary, inability to measure thickness or runout without special tools, and inconsistent surface finish compared to a professional shop.

However, these risks are low if you have an experienced brake technician inspect the rotors first to determine that resurfacing is appropriate.

How do I know if my rotors need resurfacing?

Common signs your brake rotors need resurfacing include steering wheel vibration, brake pulsation when stopping, high-pitched brake squeal, uneven rotor wear, and excessive thickness variation or grooves in the rotor surface.

Have a mechanic measure rotor thickness and runout to check if resurfacing can restore them within specifications. Compare thickness to factory service limits based on your vehicle make and model.