Doing a brake job on a Camry, pads are down to nothing and the rotors are grooved.

To decide whether to turn or replace your Camry's rotors, follow these steps:

1. Measure the rotor thickness. Use a micrometer to measure the rotor at several points (inner, middle, outer) and compare to the minimum thickness stamped on the rotor hub. If the rotor is at or below this minimum, replace it—do not turn it.

2. Check for excessive runout or scoring.

• Runout: If the rotor wobbles more than 0.005" when spun, it may need turning (if thickness allows) or replacement.
• Deep grooves or scoring: If grooves are deeper than 0.005", turning may be possible if the rotor is still above minimum thickness.

3. Consider the turning limit. Rotors can typically be turned once or twice, removing about 0.010"–0.020" per side. If turning would bring the rotor below the minimum thickness, replace it.

4. Age and condition. If the rotors are original equipment and have been turned before, or show signs of cracking, replace them rather than risk failure.

Bottom line: Measure thickness first. If it's above spec and the damage isn't severe, turning is acceptable. If it's at or below spec, or the rotor has been turned before, replace it. When in doubt, replace—brake safety is critical.

If you're unsure about measurements or procedures, consult a certified mechanic. Brake work affects vehicle safety.

Decision criteria for 2007–2024 Camry front rotors (vented, 296 mm):

1. Measure thickness at 8–10 spots around the rotor face with a micrometer. Standard new: 28.0 mm (1.102 in) Machine-to (min. after cut): 27.0 mm (1.063 in) Discard/Min. spec: 26.0 mm (1.024 in) — stamped on rotor hat; verify your specific rotor. Max. variation (parallelism): 0.015 mm (0.0006 in) Max. runout (on hub):* 0.05 mm (0.002 in)

1. If current thickness ≥ 27.1 mm and grooves clean up within 0.5–0.8 mm total stock removal → Turn them. Leave ≥ 27.0 mm.

1. If current thickness < 27.1 mm OR grooves require cutting past 27.0 mm → Replace. Do not machine to discard limit; no safety margin for next pad set.

1. Check lateral runout on the car before pulling rotors. > 0.05 mm? Index rotor 180°; re-check. Still high? Hub issue or rotor warp — replace rotor.

Practical rule: On a Camry, OEM rotors are ~$45–$65 each (rockauto/parts store). Shop labor to turn is ~$20–$30/rotor + wait time. If rotors are within 0.5 mm of machine-to limit, replace. You avoid comeback, get full warranty, and save labor next brake job.

Rear solid rotors (281 mm): Min. spec 9.0 mm, machine-to 10.0 mm. Same logic applies.

Torque specs: Caliper bracket 79 ft-lb (107 N·m), caliper slide pins 25 ft-lb (34 N·m), lug nuts 76 ft-lb (103 N·m) — criss-cross, 3 stages.

Pro tip: Clean hub face with Scotch-Brite + wire brush; any rust nub = instant runout. Use high-temp ceramic paste on slide pins & pad ears — not anti-seize.