No, AutoZone typically sells brake rotors individually, not in pairs. While they are usually sold one at a time, it's a common and recommended practice to replace them in pairs for each axle to ensure balanced braking performance.
Do AutoZone Rotors Come as a Pair?
When purchasing brake rotors from AutoZone or most other auto parts retailers such as Napa, Advanced Auto Parts, and O'Reilly's, you will find that they are sold as single units. This means if you need to replace the rotors on both sides of an axle (e.g., both front wheels), you will need to purchase two individual rotors.
Why Rotors are Sold Individually
Retailers primarily sell rotors individually for several practical reasons:
- Cost Efficiency for Retailers: Managing inventory is simpler when selling items as individual units rather than pre-packaged pairs.
- Flexibility for Consumers: While it's best practice to replace rotors in pairs, some situations might only necessitate replacing a single rotor (e.g., if one side was damaged in a specific incident and the other is still in excellent condition, although this is rare). Selling individually allows this flexibility.
- Differing Wear Patterns: Though rotors generally wear together, specific driving habits or vehicle issues can sometimes cause one rotor to wear more quickly than the other, making individual replacement theoretically an option for some.
When to Replace Rotors
Even though rotors are sold individually, it is almost always recommended to replace them in pairs for each axle. This practice ensures:
- Balanced Braking: New and old rotors can have different friction characteristics and wear levels, leading to uneven braking force, which can be dangerous.
- Optimal Performance: Replacing both rotors on an axle ensures consistent heat dissipation and braking efficiency across the vehicle's front or rear.
- Even Wear: Both new rotors will wear down together, promoting longevity for the entire braking system.
Most mechanics and automotive experts advise replacing brake pads and rotors on the same axle simultaneously.
Buying Rotors: What to Consider
When you're ready to purchase rotors, here are some key aspects to keep in mind, regardless of where you buy them:
| Consideration | Details |
|---|---|
| Vehicle Compatibility | Ensure the rotors are the correct size and type for your specific vehicle's make, model, and year. Always check part numbers. |
| Rotor Type | Common types include standard, drilled, slotted, or drilled and slotted. Your choice depends on driving style and vehicle application. |
| Quality | Invest in good quality rotors, as they are crucial for safety. Consider reputable brands. |
| Quantity | Remember to purchase two rotors if you plan to replace them on a single axle, as they are sold individually. |
| Additional Parts | You will likely need new brake pads as well, and potentially new brake hardware kits, brake fluid, or caliper components. |
You can typically find the specific rotors needed for your vehicle by entering your car's year, make, and model on the AutoZone website: www.autozone.com.
