What’s the Difference Between Drilled and Slotted Brakes?

Brake rotors are a fundamental part of a vehicle’s braking system. They’re a simple system, but made up of many different parts. The driver applies the brakes by pressing on the brake pedal, which signals the rest of the braking system, located near the tires. The brake rotor is what the brake pad clamps down on when the driver applies the brakes. The two main types of brakes are drilled and slotted.

What are the differences?

  • Drilled brake rotors:

    • Have holes drilled into them to release heat and gas build-up.
    • Are considered better for driving in wet conditions, as they allow for better water drainage and aren’t as likely to rust.
  • Slotted brake rotors:

    • Have slots cut into, but not all the way through, the rotor.
    • Are more durable, and less likely to break.

The rotors on a vehicle last, on average, from 30,000 to 70,000 miles. A licensed mechanic can evaluate the rotors and advise you on their status. They should not need to be changed as often as the brake pads, but should be replaced in pairs.


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Collins

13 years of experience
678 reviews
Collins
13 years of experience
Toyota Camry L4-2.4L - Brake Pads Replacement (Front) - Atlanta, Georgia
My experience was great. Collins was very experienced and he explained everything very well. I will book again.
Jaguar XJ6 - Brake Pads Replacement (Front) - Roswell, Georgia
Very polite & courteous. Showed up right on time and got to work. Knowledgeable and pointed something out that should be tightened and required a lift to do so. Highly recommend him!

Robert

21 years of experience
1307 reviews
Robert
21 years of experience
BMW X1 L4-2.0L Turbo - Brake Pads Replacement (Rear) - Broomfield, Colorado
Robert was very knowledgeable and so helpful! Will definitely use him in the future for our cars! He also had such a great personality and really loves what he does! Thank you!
Kia Sorento - Brake Pads Replacement (Front, Rear) - Commerce City, Colorado
Robert was AWESOME!!!! Fast, honest and professional! I would absolutely let him work on my car again.

Salim

31 years of experience
168 reviews
Salim
31 years of experience
Honda Civic L4-1.8L - Brake Pads Replacement (Front, Rear) - Union City, California
Very friendly and knowledgeable. Salim was able to get the work done in a timely manner and with smile on his face.
Volkswagen Jetta - Brake Pads Replacement (Rear) - Oakland, California
Salim was efficient & expert in the performance of his services !! He arrived on time & he worked diligently until his tasks were done !! I highly recommend him to potential customers & I intend to request him in the future for services on my Volkswagen Jetta !!

William

35 years of experience
731 reviews
William
35 years of experience
Honda Accord L4-2.4L - Brake Pads Replacement (Front, Rear) - Peoria, Arizona
William has always been professional and timely. He answers all of my questions and is very knowledgeable!
Dodge Grand Caravan - Brake Pads Replacement (Front) - Goodyear, Arizona
William did a great job as usual and I will use him again. He is very knowledgeable and answers all my questions.

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