Brake Discs

Function of Brake Discs

Brake discs are circular metal components attached to your vehicle's wheel hubs. They work in tandem with brake pads to slow down and stop the car. When you press the brake pedal, the pads are pressed against the disc surfaces, creating intense friction that dissipates kinetic energy as heat.

There are mainly two types of discs: solid discs and ventilated discs. Ventilated discs have internal channels that help dissipate heat more effectively, which is particularly useful for heavier vehicles or more demanding driving conditions.

Maintenance and Wear Signs of Brake Discs

Although more durable than pads, brake discs also wear out and require periodic inspection and replacement.

Maintenance Tips:

• Have the condition and thickness of your brake discs checked with each brake pad replacement.
• Use good quality brake pads to prevent premature or uneven wear of the discs.
• Avoid overheating your brakes with long, continuous braking (prefer engine braking downhill).

Common Wear Signs:

• Vibrations or pulsations: Felt in the brake pedal or steering wheel during braking, this can indicate a warped or unevenly worn disc.
• Grinding or metallic rubbing noises: Especially if the pads are new, this may come from the discs.
• Deep grooves or scratches: Visible on the disc surface.
• Minimum thickness reached: Each disc has a minimum wear thickness specified by the manufacturer. Below this limit, the disc must be replaced.
• Cracks: Even small cracks on the disc surface are a sign for immediate replacement.

Replacing worn brake discs is essential to maintain optimal braking performance and ensure your safety. It is generally recommended to replace the pads at the same time as the discs to ensure a perfect fit of the new friction surfaces. Konipa offers quality brake discs, suitable for a wide range of vehicles, for safe and effective braking.