Volvo, BMW and MB all say to never machine rotors, they must be replaced IF warped or worn below minimum thickness specs (checked with a micrometer). If your rotors aren't warped and you question the need for replacing them, they can measure them and tell you the specs (currently vs minimum replacement specs).

Typically, Volvo rotors are good for 2 sets of brake pads (assuming they weren't damaged by metal to metal from pad contact) but by the time a 3rd set is needed, the rotors are usually too thin (below specs) and should be replaced to avoid problems (noise, warpage).

The old time idea of machining rotors with every brake job (like STILL done on some US cars) is not necessary or advised EVER with Volvos. I also don't machine the rotors on my old GM cars either unless damaged and I've never had problems as a result without doing so.

Believe your dealer. I have *never* had good experiences turning rotors on the Volvo 240. Problems ranged from the pedal sinking too low to rotors that warped shortly after being turned.

Steve's exactly right. You do NOT turn rotors on Volvos. (Mercedes is the same way, and I suspect many other europeans are the same.)

Rotors have gotten thinner over the years as a weight and cost cutting practice. That's why Steve's El Camino (hey, yo, whadda you lookin at? You lookin at me?) was able to be turned, more than once probably.

Now my `72 340 Duster had drums all around. Talk about a car that could GO better than it could STOP!

If the rotors are in good shape I dont think they should be turned when replacing pads....I have seen people scuff the contact area before putting the new pads on though.

I used to have my rotors turned on my

1972 El Camino.....but on my 2000 S70 I would not even think of it. It is a sure way to look for warped rotors, anyhow brand new volvo OEM rotors dont cost all that much....so I would just repalce them "if needed" ie; warped, or warn to thin.

Steve Ferraro

Hoboken, NJ