For SUV owners, the braking system is the most important safety feature on the vehicle. Whether you are carpooling or towing a trailer, the sheer mass of an SUV requires a high-performance braking response. While many shops suggest a full “pads and rotors” replacement every time, opting for affordable brake pad replacement and rotor resurfacing can save you hundreds of dollars while maintaining peak stopping power.

Understanding the SUV “Stop-and-Go” Strain

SUVs are prone to “brake fade”—a reduction in stopping power caused by heat buildup. This heat can lead to glazed pads or warped rotors. In 2025, the cost of replacing four rotors on a full-size SUV can easily exceed $\$1,000$. Resurfacing offers a middle-ground solution that restores your existing rotors to a like-new state.

What is Rotor Resurfacing?

Rotor resurfacing (also known as “turning” or “machining”) involves using a precision brake lathe to shave off a microscopic layer of …