Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross 2018-2025 Disc Brake Rotor Replacement Guide
Solve your Eclipse Cross brake noise and vibration issues by choosing the right replacement rotors.
- Be aware of TSB-24-35-001, which addresses a front brake noise caused by faulty pad retainer clips that can damage the rotors.
- For most owners, a coated, daily-driver-tier rotor from a brand like Centric or Raybestos offers the best combination of performance, longevity, and value.
- Always replace your brake pads when you install new rotors to ensure proper break-in and even wear.
- A single OEM rotor from Mitsubishi costs over $100, making a pair of quality aftermarket rotors a more economical choice.
Is it Time for New Brake Rotors?
Brake rotors are a wear item, meaning they have a limited lifespan. On the Eclipse Cross, you'll likely need to replace them at least once during your ownership. Ignoring the warning signs of a failing rotor can lead to longer stopping distances and more expensive repairs down the road. Pay attention to how your car feels and sounds when you brake.
Symptoms of Worn or Failing Rotors
- Vibration or Pulsing: You might feel a pulsing in the brake pedal or a vibration in the steering wheel when you apply the brakes. This is often caused by a warped rotor, which means its surface is no longer perfectly flat. 🎬 Watch: How to diagnose brake vibrations and grinding noises.
- Grinding or Squealing Noises: A high-pitched squeal is often the first sign that your brake pads are low, but a deeper grinding noise means the pads are completely worn and metal is grinding against the rotor. Some noises may also be related to specific known issues.
- Visible Damage: A visual inspection can reveal deep grooves, scoring, or a visible "lip" on the outer edge of the rotor. These are all signs that the rotor is worn and needs replacement.
- Increased Stopping Distance: If you notice your Eclipse Cross is taking longer to stop than it used to, your worn rotors may not be providing enough friction for the brake pads to work effectively.
Known Issues: Front Brake Noise TSB
Mitsubishi has issued a Technical Service Bulletin (TSB-24-35-001) for a noise that can come from the front brakes during braking or cornering. The cause is the original brake pad retainer clips, which can shift, deform, and make contact with the brake rotor. The official fix is to install updated pad retainers. If this contact has already damaged your rotors, they will need to be resurfaced or replaced. When having your brakes serviced, ensure your mechanic is aware of this TSB.
Additionally, while there are no recalls for the physical brake rotors, several 2018-2019 models were recalled for software issues that could affect the ABS and stability control systems (NHTSA recalls 18V620000 and 18V621000). These are software fixes performed by a dealer and do not involve replacing the rotors.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Rotors for Your Eclipse Cross
You don't need to buy parts from the dealer to get quality rotors. Aftermarket brands often provide excellent quality, sometimes with features not found on the original parts. They generally fall into three categories.
Tier 1: Economy Brands
These are the most affordable options and are best for drivers on a tight budget. They meet basic safety standards but may not have extra features like protective coatings and may have a shorter lifespan than higher-tier options. Brands in this category include Pronto, Dynamic Friction, and other private-label brands like API.
Tier 2: Daily Driver / OEM-Equivalent Brands
This is the sweet spot for most Eclipse Cross owners. These brands offer quality, durability, and value that is equal to or better than the original factory rotors. Many of these rotors come with a black e-coating (electro-coating) on the hat (the center part) and vanes, which prevents rust and keeps them looking good behind your wheels. Look for brands like:
- Centric: Often praised for their quality and durable e-coating.
- Raybestos: A well-respected brand with a long history in the brake industry.
- Wagner and Bendix: Two other established brands known for reliable, OEM-quality parts.
Pro Tip: Always choose a coated rotor if you live in an area with snow and road salt. The coating on the non-contact surfaces will prevent ugly rust from forming, which is a common issue with uncoated rotors.
Tier 3: Performance Upgrade Brands
If you want to improve braking performance or just like the look, performance rotors are a good choice. These rotors are often drilled, slotted, or both. The slots help wipe away gas and debris from the pad surface, while the drilling can help with cooling. Keep in mind that performance rotors can sometimes create more noise than standard blank rotors.
- Powerstop: Very popular for their affordable all-in-one kits that include drilled and slotted rotors, pads, and hardware.
- EBC Brakes: A well-known performance brand offering various stages of rotors and pads.
- Brembo: A top-tier brand known for high-performance and racing applications, offering superior quality at a premium price.
How Much Do New Rotors for a Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross Cost?
The cost depends on the brand you choose and whether you do the work yourself or hire a professional. 🎬 See this step-by-step tutorial for replacing Eclipse Cross front brakes. Always replace brake pads and rotors at the same time for the best results.
| Part Type | Price Range (Parts Only) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| New Aftermarket Rotors (Pair) | $80 - $675 | Price varies widely by brand, from economy to performance. Our inventory ranges from $39.21 to $338.38 per rotor. |
| New OEM Rotors (Pair) | $185 - $230 | Purchased from a Mitsubishi dealership. |
| Shop Labor | $150 - $250 | Cost to install a pair of rotors and pads. |
Frequently Asked Questions
Should I replace my brake pads at the same time as my rotors?
Yes, you should always install new brake pads when you replace your rotors. Old pads wear into a pattern matching the old rotors. Installing them on new, smooth rotors will cause uneven wear, noise, and reduced performance.
🎬 Watch: How to replace the rear brake pads on your vehicle.Can I just resurface my old rotors instead of replacing them?
Sometimes. Resurfacing (also called "machining" or "turning") shaves a thin layer of metal off the rotor to create a smooth, flat surface. However, each rotor has a minimum safe thickness stamped on it. If resurfacing would take it below that limit, it must be replaced. With the affordable cost of new aftermarket rotors, replacement is often the more cost-effective and safer choice.
What's the difference between a coated and uncoated rotor?
Uncoated rotors are bare cast iron and will quickly develop surface rust on all areas, though the rust on the pad contact area is wiped away during braking. Coated rotors have a protective layer (usually a black or grey e-coat) on the hat and cooling vanes. This coating prevents rust and corrosion, keeping the rotor looking clean and new through the wheel spokes. It does not affect braking performance but significantly improves appearance and longevity in rust-prone climates.
Are drilled and slotted rotors better for my Eclipse Cross?
For daily driving, standard blank rotors are more than sufficient and are typically the quietest. Drilled and slotted rotors are designed for performance driving, where they help dissipate heat and gases more effectively to prevent brake fade. For a daily-driven Eclipse Cross, the primary benefit is aesthetic. They can sometimes be slightly noisier than blank rotors.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
Front Rotor Diameter: 294mm (11.57 inches). Rear Rotor Diameter: 302mm (11.89 inches). Relevant Technical Service Bulletin: TSB-24-35-001.
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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.
- Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross:
- 🎬 Helpful Videos
- 🛍️ Shop This Part
- Is it Time for New Brake Rotors?
- Symptoms of Worn or Failing Rotors
- Known Issues: Front Brake Noise TSB
- Choosing the Right Aftermarket Rotors for Your Eclipse Cross
- Tier 1: Economy Brands
- Tier 2: Daily Driver / OEM-Equivalent Brands
- Tier 3: Performance Upgrade Brands
- How Much Do New Rotors for a Mitsubishi Eclipse Cross Cost?
- Frequently Asked Questions
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