1. Gather Tools and Materials:
- Jack and jack stands
- Lug wrench or impact wrench
- Socket wrench set
-Brake cleaner
- New brake rotors
- Brake grease
- New brake pads (if needed)
2. Park the Vehicle Safely.
- Park your vehicle on a flat and stable surface.
- Engage the parking brake.
- Turn off the engine and allow it to cool down if the engine was running.
3. Loosen the Lug Nuts:
- Use the lug wrench or impact wrench to slightly loosen the lug nuts on the wheel where you're replacing the brake rotors.
- Do not completely remove the lug nuts yet.
4. Raise the Vehicle:
- Position the jack under the proper lifting point of the vehicle, as specified in your vehicle's owner manual.
- Use the jack to raise the vehicle until the tire where you're replacing the rotors is off the ground.
- Place jack stands under the designated jacking points to support the vehicle safely while you work.
5. Remove the Lug Nuts and Wheel:
- Remove the lug nuts completely and take off the wheel.
6. Locate the Brake Caliper:
- The brake caliper is usually located on the back side of the wheel hub.
- Look for a metal housing with a brake line attached to it.
7. Remove the Brake Caliper:
- Use the appropriate socket wrench to loosen and remove the bolts holding the brake caliper in place.
- Be careful not to damage or lose any of the bolts or hardware.
- Gently lift the brake caliper off the rotor without straining the brake line.
- Hang the caliper securely out of the way, making sure it doesn't hang by the brake line.
8. Remove the Old Brake Rotor:
- The brake rotor is the round metal disc that the brake pads press against.
- Use the appropriate socket wrench to loosen and remove the bolts holding the brake rotor in place.
- The brake rotor may be secured tightly to the wheel hub due to rust; you may need to apply some force to remove it. You can use a rubber mallet or a penetrating lubricant.
9. Clean the Hub and Rotor Surface:
- Clean the wheel hub and rotor surface thoroughly using brake cleaner.
- Make sure to remove any rust, dirt, or grease.
10. Apply Brake Grease:
- Apply a thin layer of high-temperature brake grease to the wheel hub surface where the brake rotor will sit.
- Avoid applying grease to the rotor's friction surface.
11. Install the New Brake Rotor:
- Place the new brake rotor onto the wheel hub, aligning it with the wheel studs.
- Secure the brake rotor in place using the bolts you removed earlier.
- Tighten the bolts in a star pattern to ensure even pressure.
12. Reinstall the Brake Caliper:
- Carefully lift the brake caliper back into position and secure it with the bolts you removed earlier.
- Tighten the bolts securely.
13. Reinstall the Wheel:
- Place the wheel back on the wheel hub and align the lug nut holes.
- Screw the lug nuts back on by hand.
14. Lower the Vehicle:
- Slowly lower the vehicle until the tire is on the ground.
15. Tighten the Lug Nuts:
- Use the lug wrench or impact wrench to tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern to the manufacturer's specified torque (refer to your vehicle's owner manual).
16. Test the Brakes:
- Before driving the vehicle, gently apply the brakes several times to ensure they work correctly and without any unusual noises.
17. Road Test:
- Take the vehicle for a short test drive to ensure the brakes function properly.
- Pay attention to any abnormal sounds or vibrations.
Remember, brake work can be complex and safety-critical. If you're not comfortable performing these steps or are unsure about any aspect of the process, it's best to seek professional assistance from a qualified mechanic.
