How to Replace the Rotor in a VW Beetle

When the rotors get worn down or become warped, it causes pulsing and vibration that you can feel every time you hit the brakes. Rotors are pretty easy to replace in your own garage and the process is the same across all new generation Volkswagen Beetle model years. Here's how to get the job done.

Instructions

1. Buy a new set of rotors for your VW Beetle at your local auto parts store or order them online. Never replace just one rotor at a time, as this leads to dangerous braking. Plan on swapping out all four or at least the front and rear pairs at the same time.

2. Raise your VW using a jack and jack stands and then block the wheels that you aren't working on to keep your Beetle from rolling. Next, remove the tire lug nuts, tire and wheel assembly with a socket wrench or an air ratchet.

3. Unfasten the caliper mounting bolts and then slide the caliper off of the rotor. The brake line needs to stay connected to the caliper while you work, so suspend the caliper and attached brake hose with mechanic's wire from the undercarriage of the car while you work.

4. Remove the holding screws on the old rotor and then pull the old rotor off the hub. Clean the area with a damp cloth to remove any dirt or corrosion.

5. Install the new rotor onto the hub. Tighten the holding screws with a torque wrench to 35 inch lbs. (4 Nm). Discard the mechanic's wire, replace the caliper and brake hose to their mounts and then tighten and torque the caliper mounting bolts.

6. Put the wheel assembly and tire back together and then repeat this process for each additional rotor. Then lower your VW Beetle, tighten and torque the lug nuts and then road test your car to make sure that the rotor installation was successful.