1. Gather Necessary Tools:
- Lug wrench
- Set of metric wrenches
- Socket set
- Jack
- Jack stands
- Safety glasses
- Gloves
2. Prepare the Car:
- Engage the parking brake.
- Chock the front tires to prevent the car from rolling.
- Make sure the transmission is in 'Park' (for an automatic) or first gear (for a manual).
3. Loosen the Lug Nuts:
- Use the lug wrench to loosen the lug nuts on the wheel you'll be removing, but don't remove them completely.
4. Lift the Car:
- Place a jack under the rear axle of the car, ensuring it's on a stable surface.
- Raise the car using the jack until the tire you're working on is off the ground.
5. Remove the Lug Nuts and Tire:
- Use the lug wrench to remove the lug nuts completely.
- Take off the tire and set it aside.
6. Remove the Brake Caliper:
- Locate the brake caliper at the back of the rotor.
- Remove the bolts that hold the caliper in place.
- Gently slide out the caliper without damaging the brake line.
7. Remove the Rotor:
- Locate the rotor on the wheel hub.
- If there's a retaining screw or bolt holding the rotor, remove it.
- Use a screwdriver to pry off the old rotor carefully if it doesn't come off by hand.
8. Clean the Hub Surface:
- Use a wire brush to clean any rust, dirt, or debris from the hub surface where the new rotor will sit.
9. Install the New Rotor:
- Place the new rotor on the hub, ensuring it sits perfectly against the hub surface.
10. Reinstall the Brake Caliper:
- Reinsert the caliper over the new rotor.
- Tighten the caliper bolts snugly.
11. Reattach the Tire:
- Place the tire back onto the wheel hub.
- Screw the lug nuts back by hand.
12. Lower the Car:
- Use the jack to lower the car until the wheel is on the ground.
13. Tighten the Lug Nuts:
- Tighten the lug nuts using the lug wrench in a star pattern to achieve even tightening.
14. Lower the Jack:
- Slowly lower the jack and remove it from underneath the car.
15. Remove the Wheel Chocks:
- Remove the wheel chocks from the front tires.
Remember to replace the rear rotors on both sides of the car (unless one side is notably more worn than the other). When replacing the rotors, it is also a good practice to inspect and replace the brake pads as needed to ensure optimal braking performance. If you are uncomfortable or unfamiliar with performing these tasks, it is recommended to have the work done by a qualified mechanic.
