Method 1: Removing the Rotor Without Removing the Hub (Preferred if possible):
1. Safety First: Chock the rear wheels, engage the parking brake, and disconnect the negative battery terminal. Wear safety glasses.
2. Remove the Wheel and Caliper: Remove the wheel. Then, you'll need to:
* Remove the caliper: Use a caliper bracket retaining pin or bolt to remove the caliper. You may need to support the caliper with a bungee cord or wire to prevent it from hanging by the brake line. *Do not disconnect the brake line.*
* Remove the caliper bracket: Often secured by two bolts. Remove these bolts to detach the bracket from the knuckle. Set the bracket aside, being careful not to damage the brake line.
3. Remove the Rotor: With the caliper and bracket out of the way, you should see the rotor. There are usually some retaining screws on the back of the rotor (often 2). Remove these screws. The rotor might now slide right off. If it's stuck, try:
* Using a rotor puller: This is the safest and easiest method. A rotor puller is a specialized tool that gently pulls the rotor off the hub.
* Tapping the rotor gently: Use a rubber mallet or a soft-faced hammer and gently tap the rotor around its circumference. Avoid striking the hub. Be extremely careful not to damage the wheel bearings.
4. Clean the Hub: Inspect the hub for any rust, debris, or damage. Clean the mating surfaces of both the hub and new rotor.
Method 2: Removing the Rotor and Hub Together (If the rotor is severely rusted or stuck):
This method is generally more involved and requires more tools but can be necessary if the rotor is extremely difficult to remove.
1. Follow steps 1 & 2 from Method 1.
2. Remove the Hub Nut: This is a large nut on the center of the hub. You'll need a large socket and a breaker bar or impact wrench to remove it. The nut is likely very tight.
3. Remove the Hub: Once the nut is off, carefully remove the hub assembly. It may require some persuasion with a slide hammer or puller designed for hub removal. Again, be extremely careful to avoid damaging the wheel bearings.
4. Remove the Rotor: The rotor is now attached to the hub. You should be able to remove the rotor easily from the hub.
5. Reassemble in reverse order.
Important Considerations:
* Rust and Corrosion: In older vehicles, rust and corrosion can make this job significantly harder. Penetrating oil applied liberally beforehand can help.
* Wheel Bearings: Be extremely careful not to damage the wheel bearings. If you damage them, they'll need to be replaced, adding significant cost and labor.
* Tools: You'll need a socket set (including large sockets), a wrench, a caliper bracket retaining pin tool, a rotor puller (highly recommended), possibly a hub puller (if doing Method 2), a hammer (soft-faced is best), penetrating oil, and possibly an impact wrench.
If you are uncomfortable performing this repair yourself, it is best to take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic. This procedure can be complex and requires specific tools and knowledge to avoid damage to your vehicle.
