My rear rotors definitely have grooves in them that can be felt. I'm running the original ones and 6 years / 100k miles later it's time for them to go. I wouldn't say they are warped but there's no mistake I can feel grooves on the surface of the rotor. There's a slight vibration when I brake and I would assume this is the reason. (The front rotors seem fairly smooth still, also original). My question is because of the grooves should I replace the rear pads as well. I looked at them today and they didn't seem to be out of shape but I couldn't be completely sure. The pad still has about 50-60% left on it. My only concern is, if left on, is there any chance of the existing rear pads causing any damage to new rotors or would they just flatten themselves out with a little bit of use. The pads were last swapped at the dealership so they would be whatever type they use.

 

You can replace pads without rotors but you shoud never replace rotors without new pads.

 

New brake rotors deserve new brake pads. That's all there is to it, it'll prolong the life of the rotor. Say if you just reuse the pads on there now, and for some reason neglected on the maintenance of the brakes and the pads grind down to the metal you just waisted $$$ and a new set of rotors.

 

Sound advice guys. I'll do the pads as well. Thanks!