You *can* machine the rotors if they are above the "machine-to" limit. It takes more time and patience than your average pair of rotors, but it can be done. We did my fronts on an on-car lathe but clearance was tight and took multiple passes. Saved me hundreds at a time when I really didn't have it, so I was grateful. Got about 4k miles on the new pads and they're holding up fine. Time to do the rears now.