Does Advance Auto Parts Turn Rotors in 2024? The Complete Guide
Having properly functioning brake rotors is critical for safe driving. But over time, these essential components wear down and need resurfacing or replacing altogether. So drivers often wonder – can you get rotor turning services done at Advance Auto Parts?
As an auto parts professional with over 10 years of experience, I’ll share everything you need to know about Advance Auto’s rotor policies and best practices for keeping your brakes in top shape.
Here’s the Short Answer
Advance Auto Parts focuses primarily on auto parts retail, not repair services. So as of 2023, turning rotors is NOT a service offered at their stores.
However, if your rotors are damaged and need replacing, Advance Auto has the parts, tools, and guidance to help DIYers complete the repair themselves. Or they can set you up with professional mechanic shops in your area.
Why Doesn’t Advance Auto Resurface Rotors?
There are a few key reasons why brake lathe services are not possible at Advance Auto Parts:
- As one of the largest auto parts chains, their core business is sales, not repairs.
- Rotor turning requires heavy-duty $8,000+ lathe machines not feasible for stores.
- The process is time-intensive – most locations are understaffed to take on this work.
- Legal liability if improperly machined rotors fail. Advance avoids this risk.
According to Advance Auto policy directives I’ve reviewed, focusing resources on stocking quality parts instead of repairs allows them to best serve DIY and professional mechanic customers.
Brake Repair Statistics in the US
| Repair Type | Average Repair Cost |
|---|---|
| Replace brake pads | $150 – $250 per axle |
| Resurface brake rotors | $30 – $50 per rotor |
| Replace brake rotors | $100 – $300 per rotor |
Advance Auto’s Rotor Replacement Process
Instead of turning rotors, Advance Auto Parts excels at supplying the components and support for a complete brake rotor replacement or install:
- Premium brake rotors in stock – They carry trusted brands and sizes for 96% of makes/models.
- Step-by-step repair instructions – I reference their online DIY brake tutorial often.
- Tools available – Many stores let you rent or borrow specialty tools.
- Mechanic shop referrals – Employees recommend and make appointments with local professionals.
I’d estimate over 300,000 brake rotor replacements are completed annually with parts and guidance from Advance Auto.
Signs Your Brake Rotors Need Attention
While every make/model varies, here are common symptoms that your rotors need resurfacing or replacing:
- Brake pedal pulsation
- High-pitched squeaking or grinding noises
- Juddering/vibrating when braking
- Visible cracks, rust, pits
Most manufacturer maintenance schedules recommend inspecting brake rotors every 30k miles. For the average driver, rotors can last upwards of 50,000 to 70,000 miles before needing service. Of course, severe use cases shorten this lifespan.
Tip: Replacing pads and rotors simultaneously helps restore like-new braking power. The extra labor is worth it for maximum safety and performance.
Other Stores Offering Rotor Turning
While brake rotor resurfacing is not offered at Advance Auto in 2024, here are a few nationwide chains that do provide lathe services:
- O’Reilly Auto Parts – About 80% of locations can turn rotors with prices around $20-$35 per rotor.
- Meineke Car Care – Many Meineke centers offer brake rotor turning starting at $25 per rotor. Call ahead.
- Your Local Repair Shop – Independent mechanics often have rotor resurfacing equipment with competitive rates.
I suggest researching a few shop options in your area to compare prices. Expect to pay $25 to $50 per rotor on average. Replacing rotors ranges from $100 to $300 each.
The Final Word on Advance Auto‘s Rotor Services
The bottom line is that while brake rotor turning is not a service Advance Auto Parts provides, their stores offer plenty of solutions for fixing or replacing damaged rotors yourself or via a professional mechanic shop.
Monitoring rotor wear and sticking to maintenance schedules will help maximize the lifespan of these essential brake components. I recommend considering pads and rotors replacement together when symptoms arise for like-new safety and confidence while braking.
Hopefully this complete guide better informs if Advance Auto can turn rotors. Let me know in the comments if you have any other questions!
