Took my ML 350 in for service and the tech told me that all 4 rotors are shot at 39k. We drive normally and do not tow. Is this normal? What does Merecedes use for rotors, balsa wood?

 

That sounds a bit fishy to be honest, only 39K and already rotors? Sounds like that dealership is hard up for cash and is trying to find a sucker. I would get a second opinion on it, another dealer, or a private guy. Don't just pay for it.

 

First of all, front and rear never wear at the same rate! Unless you had combination of hard ceramic pads with cheap soft China rotors and the pads are still like new but rotors are gone. If they are OEM, I would just tell them to not even touch them. They would usually last 100K miles (two sets of pads) before they need cutting or replacement in normal conditions.

 

Thanks for the advice. I noticed you have an ML also. When did you have to replace your rotors?

 

I bought mine with 130K on it and replaced front brakes last year with OEM rotors and pads (at 140K). Rear is comming soon, just waiting for my idicator lamp. I cleaned up those old rotors in my brake lathe and they are still looking very nice. On my W126, I had all four rotors cut (by my local Napa) for the first time at 120k miles! Original rotors are lasting for a long time.