Whether or not it is safe to skim warped brake discs depends on the extent of the warping. Skimming or “turning” brake discs refers to a process of removing a small amount of material from the disc surface to make it smooth again. If the warping is minor, a brake lathe machine can be used to remove a small amount of material from the disc surface, effectively smoothing out the warping and making the brake disc usable again. However, if the warping is severe or the disc is too thin, it will not be safe to skim the disc and it will need to be replaced.

Warped brake discs, also known as “warped rotors,” are a common issue that can occur in a vehicle’s brake system caused by excessive heat, uneven wear, or mechanical issues.

Additionally, brake discs that have been skimmed multiple times may not be able to be skimmed again and will also need to be replaced. It’s important to note that even if the brake disc can be skimmed, it will not be as efficient as a new one, and the life of the brake disc will be shortened.

It’s always recommended to have a professional mechanic inspect and diagnose the issue.

Can skimming brake discs have an effect on your pads?

Skimming brake discs can have an effect on brake pads in the following ways:

1. Reduced brake pad life: Skimming brake discs can reduce the life of brake pads because the pads will wear out faster when the disc surface is not smooth. This is because the brake pads will have to work harder to create the same amount of stopping power, leading to increased friction and heat.
2. Uneven wear: Skimming brake discs can cause uneven wear on the brake pads. If the brake discs are not skimmed evenly, it can lead to uneven friction on the brake pads, resulting in uneven wear.
3. Reduced brake performance: Skimmed brake discs can reduce the overall brake performance because the brake pads will not be able to grip the disc as well. This can lead to longer stopping distances and reduced braking power.
4. Reduced brake rotor life: Skimming brake discs can also reduce the life of the brake rotor. When the brake disc is skimmed, it removes a small amount of material from the rotor, making it thinner. This can make the rotor more prone to warping or cracking in the future.

It’s important to note that even though skimming brake discs can be an effective way of fixing minor warping, it’s not always the best solution. If the brake discs are severely worn or damaged, it is best to get them replace with new ones by a professional mechanic for safety and better brake performance.