What is Brake Disc Skimming and Why Do You Need It?

Brake disc skimming is a process of restoring the surface of your brake discs to their optimal condition. It can help you improve your braking performance, reduce noise, and extend the life of your brake discs and pads.

In this article, you’ll learn what brake disc skimming is, when you should do it, and why it’s beneficial for your vehicle.

What is brake disc skimming?

Brake disc skimming is a process of removing a thin layer of material from the surface of your brake discs using a special machine. This machine rotates the brake disc and applies a cutting tool to the surface, creating a smooth and even finish.

Brake disc skimming can remove any imperfections, such as warping, unevenness, corrosion, or damage, that may have occurred on your brake discs over time. It can also remove any friction material or debris that may have transferred from your brake pads to your brake discs, causing noise or vibration.

Brake disc skimming can restore the original thickness and shape of your brake discs, making them compatible with your brake pads and ensuring optimal contact and friction between them. This can improve your braking performance, reduce noise, and extend the life of your brake discs and pads.

When should you do brake disc skimming?

Brake disc skimming should be done whenever you notice any signs of deterioration or damage on your brake discs that may affect your braking performance or safety. Some common signs are:

1. Brake judder: This is a pulsating or vibrating sensation that you feel when you apply the brakes. It can be caused by warped or uneven brake discs that create uneven friction and pressure on your brake pads.
2. Brake squeal: This is a high-pitched noise that you hear when you apply the brakes. It can be caused by worn or damaged brake discs that create a thin layer of material on the surface that rubs against your brake pads. 
3. Poor braking performance: This is when you feel that your brakes are not as responsive or effective as they should be. It can be caused by worn or damaged brake discs that reduce the friction and contact between your brake pads and discs.
4. Thickness variation: This is when your brake discs have different thicknesses at different points on the surface. It can be caused by excessive wear or damage on your brake discs that create a “lip” or “ridge” on the edge of the disc.

If you experience any of these signs, you should have your brake discs checked by a professional mechanic as soon as possible. They will measure the thickness and condition of your brake discs and determine if they need to be skimmed or replaced.

Why is brake disc skimming beneficial?

Brake disc skimming has several benefits for your vehicle and your wallet. Some of them are:

1. Improved braking performance: Brake disc skimming can restore the smoothness and evenness of your brake discs, ensuring optimal friction and contact with your brake pads. This can improve your braking performance, reduce stopping distances, and enhance your driving safety.
2. Reduced noise: Brake disc skimming can remove the thin layer of material that causes brake squeal, restoring the surface of your brake discs and reducing noise. This can make your driving experience more comfortable and pleasant.
3. Extended life: Brake disc skimming can extend the life of your brake discs and pads by removing any imperfections or damage that may cause premature wear or failure. This can save you money on replacement costs and maintenance fees.
4. Environmental benefits: Brake disc skimming can reduce the amount of waste generated by replacing your brake discs. This can help you reduce your environmental impact and carbon footprint.

In conclusion, brake disc skimming is a process of restoring the surface of your brake discs to their optimal condition. It can help you improve your braking performance, reduce noise, and extend the life of your brake discs and pads. If you notice any signs of deterioration or damage on your brake discs, you should have them skimmed by a professional mechanic as soon as possible.

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