How to Replace Rotors on 2004 Jeep Cherokee Laredo

Bad brake pads and dirt cause damage to the rotor.

Brake rotors play a significant role in the Jeep's brake system. The brake pads squeeze the rotor, causing the Jeep to slow down. Just as brake pads wear with use, rotors will also require replacement. Worn brake pads and dirt cause wear on the rotors because of the friction and heat created when breaking. The wear on the rotor decreases the brake system's ability to bring slow a Jeep down or stop it.

Things You'll Need

• Four-way tire tool
• Floor jack
• 2 jack stands
• C-clamp
• Piece of wire
• Diagonal cutter
• Socket set
• Ratchet
• Disc/rotor

Instructions

1. Loosen, but do not remove, the wheel lug nuts with a four-way tire tool. Raise the Cherokee with a floor jack. Place jack stands under the frame on each side.

2. Remove the lug nuts. Remove the wheel.

3. Push the piston into the caliper using a C-clamp. Move the caliper slide pins. Detach the caliper. Hang the caliper with a piece of wire from the coil spring.

4. Cut off the pressed metal retainers with diagonal cutters, if equipped. Discard the retainers.

5. Remove the caliper mounting bracket with a socket and ratchet. Slide the rotor/disc off the hub.

6. Place the disc on the wheel studs on the hub. Install the caliper mounting bracket. Tighten the mounting bolts with a socket and ratchet.

7. Install the caliper. Move the slide pins. Install the wheel. Hand tighten the wheel lug nuts.

8. Raise the Cherokee with the floor jack. Remove the jack stands. Lower the Cherokee. Tighten the lug nuts with a four-way tire tool.

9. Depress the brake pedal to bring the brake pads into contact with the rotor/disc.

Tips & Warnings

• Bleeding the brake system is not necessary.

• Do not disconnect the brake lines.

References

• "Jeep Grand Cherokee 1993 thru 2004 Haynes Repair Manual"; Larry Warren and John H. Haynes; 2004