What is disc skimming and why could it benefit my brake disks?

Ask the Mechanic

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Fri 19 Apr, 2024

By Kenneth Kazibwe

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By Samuel Okello

Brake disk skimming is the process in which the brake disks of a vehicle is skimmed to renew the disk surface. The most commonly used disks on vehicles are ventilated discs but one can also opt for solid disks.

Disk skimming is now a very popular procedure to renew brake disks due to the affordability of the process. Brake disks can be skimmed more than once during its lifetime, leaving us with the option to have the procedure done routinely for maintenance instead of having the disks replaced before it becomes necessary. Disk skimming can add valuable time to the lifespan of the brake disks of a vehicle.

What are tell-tale signs that brake disks need some attention?

Discs are blemished or rusty

Brake pads are ready to be changed but the discs are not completely worn yet

Brakes feel spongy, slow, or lazy

There is brake vibration or judder

Squealing of the brakes

So why would you opt for brake disks to be skimmed?

The disks are measured to ensure that there is enough disk to be skimmed before the skimming procedure is considered. A workable surface thickness is determined by the manufacturer and a professional technician will be able to tell if the disks can be skimmed. If the disks are too thin it is advised to replace them to comply with road safety and manufacturer regulations. A thick enough disk is a very good candidate for skimming during your vehicle’s next service.

When it becomes apparent that you need to replace brake pads but the disks are still ok, skimming is a very good maintenance option for several reasons:

Skimming removes the “wear” lip created by repeated braking

The disk contact surface is cleaned from rust, dust, and other particles that may cause damage to the brake system

All friction material and debris that may be embedded into the disk is safely removed with skimming

Noticeable improvement in brake efficiency after skimming the disks

What does S-Line Motors Ltd look out for during the disk skimming procedure?

While the wheels are removed for the skimming procedure, we do a thorough check on different parts including:

Hydraulic hoses

Shock absorbers

Suspension and overall vehicle condition for road safety.

If we find anything out of the ordinary, we will immediately be able to make recommendations to the vehicle owner in terms of the severity of the problem as well as cost-effective treatment.