Brake pad and rotor replacement

LDISARRO

MEMBER
1999 MERCEDES BENZ 500SL

My brake pad replacement light went off on my car, so I took it into my car repair guy to replace the pads. There was no noise (metal against metal) or any vibration with the brakes just the censor light going off.

After looking at the brakes, my mechanic informed me that I had to replace the front rotors as well as the pads. When I questioned him why, he said that on this type of mercedes (because of the weight of the car), it is generally always a rule that you replace at least the front rotors everytime you replace the brake pads. Its this correct?

Thanks for your imput.

Lynn D.

Tuesday, June 8th, 2010 AT 3:27 PM

1 Reply

SQM

MECHANIC
6,383 POSTS

Hello,

Regardless of the vehicle when changing the brake pads, it is recommended to inspect the rotors make sure that it is within specification and have the rotors resurfaced before installing new pads.
Only time rotors needs to be changed if they are below the minimum thickness and or are wrapped beyond limit.
So changing the rotors just so you are replacing the pads are not necessary.

When the pads are changed you will have to replace the brake pad wear sensor. If that does not get changed, the brake pad replacement light will stay illuminated.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-replace-front-brake-pads-and-rotors-fwd

Hope this helps.
Thank you.

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