WHAT ARE COATED BRAKE ROTORS?

Disc brakes on automobiles have been around since the 1950s. The basic design itself hasn’t changed much since that time, but technology has advanced the components that make up the system. Calipers have evolved to contain as many as eight pistons for maximum clamping force. Rotors feature not only internal cooling vanes, but some have strategically placed vent holes and slots. Advances in chemical technology have now added coated brake rotors to the list of updated brake system components. But what is the big deal?

The open wheel designs of vehicles 10 years old and less reflect the OEMs desire to improve fuel economy by eliminating air drag. This sealing off of airflow in the wheel area can accelerate corrosion and rust. Because of this, an increasing amount of late model OE vehicle applications now specify some form of coating or surface treatment to help prevent corrosion. That is where coated brake rotors come in. The specially formulated polymer coating is applied to the entire rotor offering total protection for optimal performance and longer life.

Tested to withstand 400+ hours of salt spray (equivalent to 18 southern Michigan winter months), coated brake rotors edges and vanes stay cleaner longer, optimizing air flow and performance. Special polymer coating also keeps rust from forming along the outer edges of the pad swept area to prevent edge-lift. It is important to note that the coating itself is designed to be worn away in certain areas. Wherever the brake pad sweeps the rotor area, the coating will be removed by the normal operation of the disc brake system. The coating that remains will continue to protect the hub, vanes (on vented discs), and rotor edges.

Check out all the brake system products available on NAPA Online or trust one of our 17,000 NAPA AutoCare locations for routine maintenance and repairs. For more information on coated brake rotors, chat with a knowledgeable expert at your local NAPA AUTO PARTS store.