Using used brake pads on a new rotor

[George]

I was watching Eric’s video on replacing brake rotors and calipers. He mentioned that his brake pads were still in good shape but still bought a new set to put onto his new rotors. I’m wondering why he did this. Would the used pads have damaged the new rotors? I found a set of pads at the wreckers the other day and planned to use them with the new rotors that I bought. The pads were free, saving me at least $30.00. But if using used pads on new rotors causes problems, there would me no savings here. Any thoughts?? Thanks in advance.

Topic

[Lorrin Barth]

For immediate best possible brakes it is recommended you start out with new flat pads mated to new flat rotors. This is the best possible situation for success. However, it is often not necessary or even economic. Rotors often get replaced when they could be cut or even used as is.

Now, using free shoes of unknown quality is a bit of an experiment. There is a great deal of pad material variation, you may be installing junk or excellent brakes. If you don’t mind going back and redoing a possible mistake, go for it. Just don’t head out in heavy traffic for your first test drive.

[Brian]

I know from experience that if any lubricant, grease, oil, automotive fluid gets on a brake pad, it can never be washed away completely. If these pads got greasy, even a little they will slip when they should grip.

[George]

You’ve raised a good point about the unknown quality of free pads. I think I’d rather know that I have dependable pads stopping my vehicle than smile because I saved $30 dollars.

[George]

I wouldn’t have thought about contamination of the pads. That’s a very good point. Thanks.

[Author]

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