Quick Summary
Disc brake rotors-also called brake discs or rotor plates-are the flat metal circles your Rogue's brake pads squeeze to slow the SUV. A 2014‑2025 Nissan Rogue typically uses a 296 mm‑diameter, 26 mm‑thick front rotor (some 3‑row models upgrade to 320 mm x 28 mm) and a 292 mm x 16 mm rear rotor. The factory says to scrap a front rotor once it thins to 24 mm and limit rotor "wobble" (run‑out) to about 0.001-0.002 inches. Most rotors last 30 000-70 000 miles-shorter with hard braking or mountain driving. Watch for pulsation, grooves, or a squeal; replace the rotor if you see these signs or if measurements fall below spec. Good torque (83 ft‑lb on wheel nuts, 122 ft‑lb on rear brackets) keeps rotors true and safe. Newer copper‑free rules and a 2023 rear‑caliper recall also matter when choosing parts. (NICOclub, Vehicle Service Pros, AAA Club Alliance, JustAnswer, BONOSS, US EPA, NHTSA Static)
Rotor Basics
Disc brakes work like hand brakes on a bicycle: pads clamp the rotor, turning motion into heat that stops the wheel. Fluid pressure from the master cylinder pushes the pads, not a cable. (HowStuffWorks)
Factory Specs
Materials & Types
| Style | Key Points | Good For | Watch Out For |
| Blank / Smooth cast‑iron disc | Most common; affordable, easy to resurface. | Daily driving | Can glaze if overheated. (NAPA Blog) |
| Vented disc | Two plates with fins; better heat flow. | Front axles, towing | None, standard today. |
| Slotted rotor | Machined grooves sweep away gas and dust. | Off‑road, heavy loads | Slightly faster pad wear. (R1 Concepts) |
| Drilled rotor | Holes vent steam; lighter. | Wet climates, show cars | May crack under track heat. |
| Composite / Carbon‑ceramic | Very light, fade‑proof. | Performance cars | Costly, overkill for most Rogues. (Spring Works) |
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Signs of Wear
Service Intervals
AAA research says many drivers replace rotors every 30 000-70 000 miles while pads often need service around 30 000 miles. Mileage shrinks with stop‑and‑go traffic, towing, or steep hills. Always measure thickness during tire rotations. (AAA Club Alliance, AAA International Relations)
Torque & Run‑Out
DIY Installation
Safety & Recalls
In 2023 Nissan recalled a small number of Rogues for missing rear‑caliper bushings that could cut braking power; dealers swap both calipers free. Check your VIN on the NHTSA site if unsure. (NHTSA Static)
Environmental Notes
The EPA and states pushed the Copper‑Free Brake Initiative, dropping copper content to under 5 % in 2021 and to 0.5 % by 2025 because copper harms fish. California's law echoes this rule. Many new rotors pair with low‑copper pads to stay compliant. (US EPA, Department of Toxic Substances Control)
Driving Factors
Heavy cargo, mountain descents, and stop‑and‑go city routes heat the brake disc more, shortening life. Downshift on long hills and leave space to reduce rotor stress. (PowerStop Brakes)
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What size rotor does my Rogue use?
A: Most two‑row Rogues use a 296 mm front rotor and 292 mm rear rotor; some 3‑row versions use a 320 mm front rotor. (NICOclub)
Q: When should I replace a rotor?
A: Measure thickness; change it if below 24 mm front or 14 mm rear, if it is cracked, or if run‑out is above 0.002 in. (, Vehicle Service Pros)
Q: Can I turn (resurface) Nissan Rogue rotors?
A: Only if thickness stays above the wear limit + 0.3 mm; otherwise install new discs. (NICOclub)
Q: Are slotted or drilled rotors better?
A: Slotted rotors clean the pad surface and resist cracking, while drilled rotors shed water but may crack under high heat; both can wear pads faster. (R1 Concepts)
Q: How tight should I make the wheel nuts?
A: Torque them to 83 ft‑lb to prevent warping and wheel loss. (BONOSS)
Q: Do I need special pads for copper‑free laws?
A: By 2025 pads must have under 0.5 % copper; look for pads marked "NS" (low copper) or "N" (no copper). (US EPA)
Q: What causes brake pedal vibration?
A: Rotor thickness variation or run‑out from uneven lug‑nut torque, dirty hubs, or heat spots. (PowerStop Brakes)
Q: How long do rotors last?
A: With gentle driving, 50 000 miles is common; aggressive city use can require changes near 30 000 miles. (AAA Club Alliance)
Q: Does replacing rotors improve stopping distance?
A: Yes-fresh, true discs restore full pad contact, cutting stopping feet and pedal travel. Tests show worn rotors can lengthen 60‑to‑0 mph stops by a car length or more. (PowerStop Brakes)
Q: Will bigger 320 mm rotors fit my two‑row Rogue?
A: Only if you also swap matching caliper brackets and wheels clear the larger disc; check clearance before buying. (NICOclub)
Q: Are carbon‑ceramic rotors worth it?
A: Not for daily Rogues; they cost thousands and need matching pads, but they shine on track cars that see 1 000 °F brake temps. (Spring Works)
Need more help? Measure twice, torque once, and enjoy smooth, quiet stops with the right disc brake rotor on your Nissan Rogue.
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