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Super Member
Different types of brake rotors we encounter
We commonly run into 3 different types of brake rotors.
STEEL/FERROUS
CERAMIC/CARBON CERAMIC
TUNGSTEN CARBIDE
Each type can have a different approache in regards to cleaning, handling, etc.
Steel or ferrous: Pretty much the 'standard' rotor on most auto's. Pretty much impervious to anything we may use on them, however they are prone to rust.
Ceramic/Carbon ceramic: Found on 'high end' sports cars, exotics and some luxury vehicles. Finicky. Please use caution when working on a vehicle with these. The rotors tend to absorb chemicals, are 'delicate' and can crack/shatter if struck, dropped, or mishandled, and are ridiculously expensive to replace. (approximately $3-5K+ EACH). They dust very little and using your favorite car shampoo on them is a good solid, safe cleaning routine.
Tungsten carbide: Found on model year 2020 and newer Porsche Cayenne and Taycan. I typically treat these as I do ceramic/carbon ceramic rotors. (expensive, but not as expensive as the carbon ceramic)
Ceramic/Carbon Ceramic rotors:
Steel rotors:
Tungsten carbide rotors: (for now, only on model year 2020 and newer Porsche SUV's and Taycan)
Hope this helps everyone out!
Scott Harle
Autodermatology
#autodermatology
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Post Thanks / Like - 2 Thanks, 3 Likes, 0 Dislikes
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Re: Different types of brake rotors we encounter
Nice article Scott.
Thank you for photo-documenting.
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Super Member
Re: Different types of brake rotors we encounter
Thanks for this Scott!
Been a few recent threads asking for info like this, nice to have a post dedicated on how to tackle them safely.
Alumni Autogeek's first ever Roadshow Detailing Class Oconomowoc, Wisconsin
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Super Member
Re: Different types of brake rotors we encounter
Thanks! No idea Tungsten Carbide brake rotors were a thing. I was aware of the ceramics, but this is something new to read up on.
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Super Member
Re: Different types of brake rotors we encounter
Great info Scott !!!! Thanks for putting that together.
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Super Member
Re: Different types of brake rotors we encounter
Recently I was at a Porsche dealer and they had a Cayenne Turbo coupe loaded and it had this Tungsten Carbide brake system. The calipers were insanely huge, I guess to stop that big of a vehicle with high performance. These were 21” wheels and look how much of the space it fills.
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Super Member
Re: Different types of brake rotors we encounter
Most welcome everyone! Glad you are finding it helpful!
Scott Harle
Autodermatology
#autodermatology
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