How to Replace Worn Rotors on a Car

A car's rotor, or brake disc, can wear down and become thin from excessive use. Rotors can also be damaged from old, neglected brake pads. If rotors are worn down or damaged in any way, they must be replaced. You must remove the wheel and brake calipers just to inspect the rotor. At that point, removal and replacement is easy. This article will explain how to replace worn rotors on a car.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Brake rotor Jack stand Tire iron Wrench Cutting pliers

1. Apply the parking brake and loosen the lug nuts before raising the car. Raise the car on a jack stand. Remove the wheel. Turn the wheels facing forward. Remove the lug nuts, using the "star pattern" where you remove the nut opposite the one you removed previously.

2. Disconnect the brake caliper from the rotor. Remove the bolts securing it to the mounting bracket. Place the caliper somewhere where it won't hang near or twist the brake hose. Remove the mounting bracket from the rotor by removing its bolts.

3. Mark the rotor to note its exact position on the hub and remove the rotor. Cut away and remove any retaining washers that hold the rotor in place. They are usually there if the rotor has never been removed. Use cutting pliers and discard the washers.

4. Compare and line up the old rotor with the new one to learn the position it must be in. Install the new rotor in the exact same position the old one was in when removed. New retaining washers aren't needed.

5. Attach the brake caliper back onto its mounting bracket and install the bracket onto the rotor. Consult an expert or auto service guide to learn the exact torque (in foot pounds) the caliper and bracket should be tightened to for your car.

6. Connect the wheel onto the new rotor, using the same "star pattern" as before. Tighten the nuts after lowering the car. Again, the exact torque needed depends on the car model.

7. Press down on the brake pedal a few times to move the brake pads into contact with the rotor.

Tips & Warnings

• You don't need to separate the brake caliper from its hose as long as it's placed somewhere that won't stretch or twist the hose. If you don't disconnect the hose, you won't need to bleed the brakes after installation.
• Dust collected on the brakes contains asbestos and is very dangerous. Wear a face mask when working on the brakes and never blow away the dust.

Who Can Help Sponsored

• Need Cash For An Emergency? Auto Repair, Medical or Home Emergency—CashNetUSA.com is here to help you take control.