Glossary / Engine

pads and rotors

9 Episode Mentions

Too Afraid to Ask

Brake pads are little pieces of material that rub against metal discs called rotors to slow the car. When they wear out, the brakes become less effective.

Technical Definition

Brake pads are the friction material that presses against the rotors (discs) to create braking force. Rotors are metal discs attached to the wheels that the pads clamp onto.

Hear It Discussed

"There's a time and it says pads and rotors this time, master cylinder [531.1s] this time, complete brake system this time. [534.1s] Well, why would they put it in there if it wasn't done in some..."
Automotive Tips to Reduce Repair Expenses from the Authority in Auto Repair Advice Under The Hood show 08:46

"You know, a break job used to be pads and rotors. Well, we've talked about this recently. Right, we can't just do that because we've"
Ron Ananian, The Car Doctor - April 4, 2026 - Hour 2 - The Right To Repair Ron Ananian The Car Doctor 22:57

"How many times have we heard our people say, hey, your rear brakes are at three millimeters, needs pads and rotors."
The Final Push: Maximize December Without Feeling Desperate [E235] Chris Cotton Weekly Blitz 03:49