How to Install Rotors & Brakes

Disc brakes on a vehicle have three main components. There are the brake disc, or rotor, which is mounted to the wheel hub; the brake caliper, which is mounted onto the rotor; and the brake pads, which are within the caliper. Brake pads need to be replaced every 60,000 miles or so. In addition, the brake rotor should have a smooth finish, and should be replaced if there are any deep grooves that cannot be machined or finished off. To install new rotors and brakes, find out the size and type of rotors, brakes and mounting bolts in the car's manual.

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Jack stands
• Brake rotor
• Wrench
• Caliper mount
• Brake pads, shims and retainers
• Brake caliper
• C-clamp

1. Use jack stands to lift the full end (front or rear) of the vehicle. Always install brakes in pairs; so you'll be replacing the rotors and brakes on the right and left sides.

2. Insert the brake rotor (disc) onto the wheel hub. Make sure the rotor is the correct size by comparing it to the old rotor. Fasten the rotor in place by tightening the retaining screw that goes into the small mounting hole on the disc.

3. Connect the brake caliper mount to the rotor. Line up the mounting holes on the caliper mount with the holes on the mounting bracket on the wheel hub assembly. Insert the mounting bolts into the holes, and tighten them with a wrench.

4. Install the brake pads onto the caliper mount. Each side of the rotor has one set of pads, and they are held in place with shims and retaining clips that fit within the mount. Apply a nonsqueal compound to the backing plates on the shims, and make sure the pads face the rotors.

5. Attach the brake caliper to its mount, and tighten its bolts that fasten it to the mount. Use the banjo bolt to connect the brake hose to the caliper.

6. After installing the caliper, bleed the brake system to purge it of air. Open the bleeder screw on the caliper, and have a helper press on the brake pedal until all the air escapes. Connect a clear rubber hose to the bleeder valve, and stick the other end into a container of brake fluid to help the process.

7. Attach the wheels to the hub, and tighten the lug nuts before lowering the vehicle.

Tips & Warnings

• Removing old brakes and rotors for replacement is the reverse of installation. A new brake rotor often will have a protective film around it. Peel off this film before installing.
• The caliper's pin must be compressed into the caliper before installing it. Use a C-clamp to compress the pin if needed.

References

• 2 Car Pros