Need new rotors

twopu · 05-21-05, 07:49

I had my brakes checked out and they said I needed new rotors. They wanted to charge my $91 for Raybestos rotors. Now I'm no expert but I thought I saw better rotors for less or at the same price. I know nothing about car parts other than what I read on automotive forums. I just keep hearing EBC and Brembo are good at about the same price as the Raybestos. Can anyone suggest rotors for an everyday driver (2000 Honda Accord)? I willing to pay a little extra for better performance but not willing to go crazy.

Also, are rotors easy to install? Are they pretty much scew back on or do I need to do something special (cut)>

Accumulator · 05-21-05, 09:20

Ease of installation will depend on the car (I don't know from Hondas, sorry) and what's "easy" in your book. For me, I'd change them on my Caprice but *not* on the Audis. IMO if you haven't done it before you should a) get a good manual and b) watch while someone else does it first.

IMO (again, not knowing the Honda scene), for normal street driving any "special" rotors would be a waste of money, and most "improvements" are BS anyhow, at least for daily drivers.

If it were my car, I'd probably take it to the cheapest "lifetime guarantee" place that seemed a) to be a responsible shop that knows what they're doing, and b) likely to stay in business to honor the warranty.

IMO better/different pads will make a bigger diff than "special" rotors.

tom p. · 05-21-05, 09:31

Rule #1: Don't work on brakes unless you have some familiarity or someone can look over your shoulder.

I checked https://www.rockauto.com/applet3.html and they have something like 15 different choices in brake rotors for a 4 cyl Accord. The Raybestos were $47.

SpoiledMan · 05-21-05, 09:59

While Honda brakes are really on the easy side and winging it you could do pads and rotors in less than an hours time I wouldn't do it without having some prior knowledge of brakes. There are 2 12mm bolts holding the calipers in place and there are 2 rather large(don't remember the size) bolts holding the bracket that the caliper bolts to onto the wheel hub. There are also 2 phillips head "set" screws that hold the rotor in place for the assembly line guys that can be a real pain to get out if not done right. IT IS IMPERATIVE THAT YOU USE THE PROPER SIZE TIP WHEN THESE ARE REMOVED OR THEY WILL STRIP OUT!!!! A "C" clamp and one of the old pads can be used to slowly push the piston into the caliper. You will need some brake parts cleaner and maybe some high temp lube. I don't know how many miles you have on your car but the seals on the piston should be inspected and replaced if damaged EVEN THE SLIGHTEST AMOUNT. The torque settings are different on each one of my cars so I would imagine that they are different for your Accord. If you have never done this I recommend that you have someone oversee what you're doing that has. It's truly not difficult at all as long as you think about what you're seeing and seeing what you're thinking about.

Lost Pup · 05-21-05, 05:43

New rotors are installed with new pads.

What did the quoted price include ?