Glossary / Engine

brake rotor

15 Episode Mentions

Too Afraid to Ask

When you brake, the pads press against a spinning disc called a rotor. This helps bring the car to a stop.

Technical Definition

The brake rotor is the metal disc that the brake pads clamp onto to slow or stop a vehicle. It converts kinetic energy into heat through friction.

Hear It Discussed

"[204.3s] That'swell,that'syes,that'swhatbuthereinthis,they'recallingitanincorrectfrontwheelhubbolts. [211.0s] Thosewouldbetheboltsthatarepressedintotherotorofthefrontbrake. [215.3s]..."
Your SUV Is Rolling Away And We’re Still Bidding In Wheel Time Podcast: Your Go-To Automotive Talk Show 03:31

"the friction of that pad on that rotor is going to make horrible things happen because it's going to heat up..."
#2596: Whole Lotta Shakin' Goin' On The Best of Car Talk 42:54

"...the pilot was looking standing on the jet bridge looking down. He's like, where's the brake rotor? One of the brake rotors and just came apart like short track racing. I'm like, are you kidding..."
Car Guys Giving Free Advice To Help You Under The Hood show 03:55