Hoping you guys can shed some light on this debate over rotor replacement when the pads need changing. My 2006 C4S just gave me the warning for the front pads being worn. The rotors still look smooth, however the dealer wants to change the rotors with the pads. They said, they will not just do a pad relacement nor will they resurface the rotors.

Can I get by with just replacing the pads?

 

I would just get some pads and install them yourself. If you have the big reds, it's not that hard. I doubt that you need to change rotors if you do just street driving.

 

Get a second opinion I had my pads replaced last summer, and the rotors are still fine. Too bad you didn't get the pads replaced before your sensors went.

 

Thats what I figured guys.....the dealer said the rotors are so soft that by the time the pads need to be replaced, the rotors are unsafe.

 

Assuming this is your first pad change with the car, it sounds like the dealer is just trying to up sell you. Might want to find an independent shop. If the rotor thickness is within spec, then no need to replace them. I have never heard the terminology of a rotor becoming "soft"

 

as long as the cross drilled rotor's holes arent cracking to the edge of the rotor, i use the rotors till they are gone ! for sensors i just short out the wires, dont need em.

 

If you rub your fingers from the inside of the rotors to the edge, do you feel a lip? If the "lip" is not noticeable, then you have nothing to worry about.

 

u guys rock!! tnx for the help fellas!!

 

Literally, I change my pads before / after a track event in 45 minutes. If you don't want to tackle it yourself, find a Porsche shop near you and they can probably do it and charge you just 1 hour of labor.

 

Sounds like you should replace your pads and your dealer...

 

Is there a DIY on that?

 

I think this is the article I first used, but modified things a little. I used a spatula to separate the pad from the dampener and leave the "spiders" in and just slip the new pad in. I also use whatever is on hand to prevent scratches from the pipe wrench when squeezing the caliper. First time took about 1 hour, from then on I got the hang and now it's 45 minutes to do 4 wheel and pad changes for the track. I also don't bother with needle nose or a punch. I have a thin screw driver that I use to pull the cotter pin, pop the sensor, and also push through the retaining rod once I press down on the spring clip to release the pressure. I don't use any cleaner either...

http://www.renntech.org/forums/index.php?showtopic=7065

 

Better replace your dealer and find someone to replace the pads professionally - safer! You can watch and do it next time by yourself !!

 

I do know that there are some cars (don't know specifically about Porsche) where rotors can not be resurfaced.

 

How many miles on the car?