1. Gather the necessary tools:
- Lug wrench
- Breaker bar or long-handled wrench
- A penetrating lubricant spray
- A hammer
- A block of wood or a rubber mallet
- Safety glasses
2. Safety Precautions:
- Ensure your vehicle is parked on a flat surface and the parking brake is engaged.
- Wear safety glasses to protect your eyes.
3. Remove the lug nuts and wheel:
- Use the lug wrench to loosen the lug nuts.
- Once loosened, use the lug wrench or impact wrench to remove the lug nuts and take the wheel off.
4. Spray with Penetrating Lubricant:
- Generously apply the penetrating lubricant to the threads of the rotor mounting bolts or screw holes around the rotor.
- Let the lubricant soak in for a few minutes to help loosen the rusted or seized bolts.
5. Loosen the Caliper Bolts:
- There are usually two caliper bolts that hold the brake caliper in place. Use the wrench or socket to loosen these bolts but do not remove them completely.
6. Pry Open the Caliper:
- Use the block of wood or a screwdriver to pry open the brake caliper and free the brake pads from the rotor. You can also use a C-clamp or a dedicated brake caliper tool.
7. Reattach the Wheel Partially:
- Put the wheel back on the hub. Do not tighten the lug nuts completely at this stage. This is just to allow you access to the rear of the rotor.
8. Use a Hammer and Block of Wood:
- Place the block of wood against the back of the rotor, close to the hub.
- Gently tap the block of wood with the hammer. The rotor should start to free itself.
9. Rotate and Loosen Bolts:
- While gently tapping the rotor from behind, rotate the rotor back and forth by hand. This rotation will help loosen the stuck rotor.
- As you rotate, start to loosen the rotor mounting bolts or screws.
10. Pry the Rotor Off:
- Continue tapping the rotor with the block of wood while rotating and applying pressure, attempting to pry the rotor off the hub.
- Repeat this step until the rotor comes off.
11. Remove the Bolts or Screws:
- Once the rotor is loose, completely remove the mounting bolts or screws holding it in place.
12. Inspect and Clean the Hub:
- Clean the hub thoroughly to ensure no dirt or debris remains that could cause issues with the new rotor when installed.
13. Reassemble:
- Once the hub is clean, inspect and clean the new rotor before installing it on the hub.
- Screw in the new rotor mounting bolts or screws and hand-tighten until seated properly.
- Place the wheel back on and tighten the lug nuts.
Test drive the vehicle cautiously and ensure the brakes function properly before resuming regular use. If the rotor was severely rusted or stuck, it's advisable to replace both the rotor and the brake pads for optimal braking performance.
