Will a VIN Number Tell Me the Brake Rotor Size?

In the past blogs we covered how to identify brake rotors on pads based on different criterias, now we are going to talk about identifying brakes based on the VIN number. When it comes to vehicle maintenance and repairs, having accurate information about your car's components is crucial. The brake system, in particular, plays a vital role in ensuring your safety on the road. One essential aspect of the brake system is the rotor size, which directly affects braking performance. But in most cases if you get the wrong parts, it won't affect the safety, because they will not fit into the braking system of your vehicle. Many car owners wonder if they can determine the brake rotor size simply by referencing their vehicle identification number (VIN). In this blog post, we will delve into the topic and explore whether a VIN number can provide you with the brake rotor size information you need.

Understanding the VIN Number:

Before we dive into the specifics of brake rotor size, let's first understand what a VIN number is and what it can tell us. A VIN is a unique 17-character alphanumeric code assigned to each vehicle, serving as its identifier. It contains information about the vehicle's manufacturer, model, year of production, engine type, and more. The VIN number is primarily used for identification purposes, vehicle history checks, and legal registrations.

Decoding a VIN Number:

Decoding a VIN number can provide you with valuable information about your vehicle, such as the make, model, and year of production. However, when it comes to specific details like brake rotor size, the VIN number alone may not provide the necessary information. While the VIN can indicate some aspects of a vehicle's configuration, it typically doesn't include detailed specifications like brake rotor size, suspension type, or other specific parts.

Brake Rotor Size Determination:

To determine the brake rotor size accurately, you will usually need to consult other sources beyond the VIN number. There are a few methods you can employ to find this information:

• Manufacturer's Manual or Website: One of the most reliable sources of information is your vehicle's manufacturer. Consult your owner's manual or visit the manufacturer's website to find detailed specifications about your vehicle, including the brake rotor size.
• Physical Inspection: Another way to determine your brake rotor size is by physically inspecting the rotors themselves. The size is typically stamped or engraved on the rotor's edge, making it visible without removing the wheel. Or simply get the improper measurement tool, and measure outside diameter and thickness. Those 2 dimensions will tell you what parts you need. 
• Online Databases: Several websites and online databases provide comprehensive information on vehicle specifications, including brake rotor sizes. By entering your vehicle's make, model, and year, you can access detailed specifications for your particular vehicle. If you are going down this path, our recommendation will be to check in a few different online resource and and make sure that results are matching 
• Professional Assistance: If you're unsure or unable to find the brake rotor size information using the methods mentioned above, it's best to consult a professional mechanic or contact the vehicle manufacturer directly. They will have the expertise and access to resources to provide you with accurate information.
• Call Dealership: having a VIN number, you can call your vehicle manufacturers dealership and ask for the dimensions. Sometimes they won't give it to you, in this case, ask for the part number. Having this it is easy to find dimensions online. At AllRotors we have a search that searches parts based on OE number.

While a vehicle identification number (VIN) provides valuable information about your car's make, model, and production year, it typically does not include specific details such as brake rotor size. Determining the brake rotor size usually requires additional sources like manufacturer's manuals, physical inspection, online databases, or professional assistance. When in doubt, it's always best to consult a reliable source or seek the advice of a qualified mechanic to ensure accurate and safe brake rotor replacement or maintenance. Remember, proper brake performance is crucial for your safety and the safety of others on the road. In the next article we will cover what is the VIN number and what information you can get from it.

Please note that at ALlRotors we guarantee that we will send you the right parts if you provide us your VIN number after placing an order. And incase of the error AllRotors will send you proper parts free of charge.