Disc Brake Rotor Guide for the 2011-2017 Buick Regal
Everything a Regal owner needs to know about choosing the right replacement disc brake rotors.
- You must know if you have a standard model or a GS model; the front brake rotors are different sizes and not interchangeable.
- For most drivers, a quality coated blank rotor from a brand like ACDelco, Centric, or Raybestos is an excellent choice.
- Always replace brake pads and rotors together to ensure proper performance and avoid noise issues.
- Complaints of sticking calipers and premature rotor wear exist, so ensure your calipers are sliding freely during replacement.
Understanding Your Regal's Brake Rotors
The 2011-2017 Buick Regal came with a few different brake setups depending on the model. Most models use a standard solid or vented disc rotor. However, the high-performance Regal GS model is special. It came from the factory with larger, more powerful Brembo brand brakes on the front wheels. It is critical to know which model you have before buying parts, as the standard rotors will not fit a GS, and vice-versa.
| Buick Regal Trim | Typical Front Rotor Size | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Base / Premium (2.4L) | ~296mm (11.7 inches) | Standard single-piston calipers. | 🎬 Watch a step-by-step guide for replacing standard Regal rotors.
| Turbo / Premium (2.0L) | ~321mm (12.6 inches) | Larger rotors for the more powerful engine. |
| GS (2.0L Turbo) | ~345mm (13.6 inches) | Brembo 4-piston front calipers. |
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Rotor
When your original rotors wear out, you have many aftermarket options that can be as good as, or even better than, the original factory parts for less money. Aftermarket rotors come in a few styles:
- Blank/Smooth Rotors: These look just like your factory rotors. They are a great choice for daily driving, offering quiet operation and long life. Many quality aftermarket blank rotors come with a corrosion-resistant coating (often black or grey) that keeps the hat (the center part of the rotor) from rusting and looking ugly behind your wheels.
- Drilled & Slotted Rotors: These are performance-oriented rotors. The holes (drilling) and grooves (slotting) help vent hot gases and water for better braking in aggressive driving or wet weather. They can sometimes create a little more noise and pad wear than blank rotors. These are a popular upgrade for Regal GS owners or those looking for a more aggressive look.
Brand Tiers for Your Regal
With so many brands, it can be confusing. Here is a simple breakdown:
- Premium & Performance (Brembo, Hawk, EBC Brakes, Powerstop): Brembo is the Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) for the Regal GS, so their parts are a perfect, high-quality fit. Powerstop is very popular for offering complete kits (rotors and pads) that are a great performance upgrade for the money. EBC and Hawk are well-respected performance brands.
- OEM-Quality (ACDelco, Raybestos, Centric, Wagner): ACDelco is GM's official parts brand, and they offer different tiers, from GM Original Equipment to more affordable "Gold" and "Advantage" lines. Raybestos, Centric, and Wagner are trusted names that produce high-quality, reliable rotors that meet or exceed factory specs.
- Daily Driver/Budget (Dynamic Friction, Pronto, Duralast): These brands offer a good balance of quality and affordability for daily driving needs. They are a solid choice if you're looking to save money without sacrificing safety.
Common Ordering Mistake
The most common mistake is ordering parts for a standard Regal when you have a GS, or vice-versa. The GS model's front Brembo brakes use completely different, larger rotors and pads. 🎬 See how to install front Brembo brakes on a GS. Always double-check your sub-model before ordering. If you have a non-GS Regal, you can actually upgrade to the larger GS Brembo brakes, but you will need to buy the calipers, rotors, and pads as a kit. Some owners report needing wheel spacers to clear the larger calipers with certain 18-inch stock wheels.
Known Issues, Recalls & TSBs
While there are no specific recalls for the brake rotors on the 2011-2017 Buick Regal, some related issues have been noted. Some owners have complained about a sticking brake pedal or dragging calipers, which can cause rotors to overheat, warp, and wear out quickly. Additionally, a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB #17-NA-040) was issued for brake squeal on initial brake applications. Another TSB (PIC-5428) notes that warning lights for the ABS and Stabilitrak systems can sometimes be triggered by debris on a wheel speed sensor, which is located near the rotor. There was a recall for incorrect front rotors being installed on some 2014 models, but this was for the LaCrosse and Malibu, which share a similar platform.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Should I replace my pads and rotors at the same time?
Yes, it is highly recommended. Installing new pads on old, worn rotors can cause noise, vibration, and reduced performance. Most mechanics will insist on replacing them together for a proper brake job.
What are coated rotors and are they worth it?
Coated rotors have a special paint or plating on the non-contact surfaces (the hat and cooling vanes). This coating prevents rust, which keeps them looking good behind open-spoke wheels and can make them easier to remove later. Given the small price difference, they are almost always worth it for a cleaner look and better corrosion resistance.
Do I need to "bed-in" my new brakes?
Yes. Bedding-in is a process of a few hard stops to properly transfer a layer of brake pad material onto the rotor face. This ensures smooth, quiet, and powerful braking. Most aftermarket brake manufacturers include specific instructions for this simple but important procedure.
🎬 Follow this video tutorial for a complete front brake replacement.Why are my brakes vibrating or shaking the steering wheel?
This is a classic symptom of a warped brake rotor. Overheating from heavy use or a sticking caliper can cause the rotor's flat surface to become uneven. When the pads press against this uneven surface, it creates a pulsation that you feel in the brake pedal or as a shake in the steering wheel.
Can I resurface (or "turn") my old rotors instead of replacing them?
While this used to be common practice, it's less so today. Resurfacing removes metal, making the rotor thinner and more likely to warp again quickly. With the affordable cost of quality new aftermarket rotors, replacement is almost always the better and safer long-term solution.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
OEM Part Numbers: 22917417 22917418 172-2614 172-2615
Rotor sizes vary significantly by trim. Non-GS models use ~296mm or ~321mm front rotors. The Regal GS uses larger ~345mm front rotors with Brembo calipers. All models use a 5-lug bolt pattern. The rotor is held in place by a small T30 Torx screw during assembly.
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The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
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