Tools and Materials Needed:
- Jack and Jack Stands
- Lug Wrench
- Socket Wrench
- Ratchet
- 17mm Socket
- 15mm Socket
- Flat-Head Screwdriver
- Phillips-head Screwdriver
- Brake Cleaner
- New Front Brake Rotors
- Brake Caliper Bolts
Instructions:
1. Prepare Your Vehicle
- Park on level ground and engage the parking brake. Loosen the lug nuts on the front wheels but don't remove them completely.
2. Lift Your Vehicle Safely
- Use a jack to lift your vehicle off the ground. Place jack stands under the frame rails near the front wheels to support the weight of the vehicle safely. Always follow safe jacking and support procedures to avoid injury.
3. Remove the Lug Nuts
- Now that the vehicle is securely supported by jack stands, you can remove the lug nuts and take off the front wheels.
4. Locate and Remove the Caliper Bolts
- Identify the two caliper bolts that hold the brake caliper in place. They're usually located on either side of the caliper. Use the 17mm socket to loosen and remove these bolts.
5. Remove the Brake Caliper
- Lift the brake caliper off the rotor. You may need to use a flat-head screwdriver to pry the caliper gently away from the rotor if it seems stuck. Don't let the caliper hang by the brake hose.
6. Remove the Old Brake Rotor
- With the caliper removed, you can now see the brake rotor. Use a 15mm socket or wrench to loosen the bolts that hold the brake rotor in place. Slide the rotor off the hub and set it aside.
7. Install the New Brake Rotor
- Place the new brake rotor onto the hub of the wheel. Hand-tighten the lug nuts temporarily.
8. Reattach the Brake Caliper
- Position the brake caliper back onto the new brake rotor. Line up the holes in the caliper with the mounting bracket and insert the caliper bolts. Tighten the caliper bolts securely.
9. Reinstall the Front Wheel
- Place the front wheel back onto the hub and place the lug nuts. Tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern to ensure even seating of the wheel. Lower your vehicle from the jack stands.
10. Test the Brakes
- Before moving the vehicle, test the brakes by applying light pressure to the brake pedal. They should feel firm and responsive.
CAUTION: Bed in your new brake pads before driving them hard. This means gently applying the brakes without coming to a complete stop for several miles. This helps to create a thin layer of friction material on the rotors, which results in better braking performance over time.
Remember, performing brake maintenance can be dangerous if you are not fully confident or don't have the proper tools. If you have doubts or concerns about your abilities, it is always advisable to leave the task to a professional mechanic or brake shop.
