01Gather the Necessary Tools and Materials

  • Before you begin the process of changing a car brake rotor, it's important to gather all the necessary tools and materials. Make sure you have the following:
  • - New brake rotor
  • - Jack
  • - Jack stands
  • - Lug wrench
  • - Wrench or socket set
  • - Brake cleaner
  • - Brake lubricant
  • - Gloves and safety glasses

02Prepare the Vehicle

  • Start by parking your car on a flat surface and engaging the parking brake. If you have a manual transmission, place the car in first gear or reverse.
  • Then, locate the lug nuts on the wheel that houses the brake rotor you want to change. Use the lug wrench to loosen the lug nuts, but do not remove them completely at this point.

03Raise and Secure the Vehicle

  • Next, position the jack under the car's recommended jacking point. Use the jack to lift the car until the tire is off the ground.
  • Once the car is raised, place the jack stands under the car near the jacking point for added safety. Carefully lower the car onto the jack stands.

04Remove the Wheel and Caliper

  • With the car secured on the jack stands, remove the lug nuts completely and take off the wheel.
  • Locate the brake caliper, which is usually held in place by a few bolts or pins. Remove these bolts or pins using a wrench or socket set, depending on the specific design.
  • Once the bolts or pins are removed, carefully lift the caliper off the rotor and suspend it using wire or a bungee cord. Be careful not to damage the brake line.

05Replace the Brake Rotor

  • Before installing the new brake rotor, use brake cleaner to thoroughly clean the mounting surface on the wheel hub.
  • Once the mounting surface is clean, carefully place the new brake rotor onto the wheel hub. Make sure it aligns properly with the lug studs.
  • Reinstall the brake caliper over the new rotor and secure it with the bolts or pins. Double-check that the caliper is positioned correctly and tightened appropriately.
  • If necessary, apply brake lubricant to the caliper bolts or pins to ensure smooth operation.
  • Repeat these steps for each brake rotor that needs to be replaced.

06Reassemble the Wheel and Lower the Vehicle

  • Once all the brake rotors have been replaced, it's time to reassemble the wheel. Place the wheel back onto the wheel hub and hand-tighten the lug nuts.
  • Using the lug wrench, tighten the lug nuts in a crisscross pattern to ensure even pressure.
  • Lastly, carefully lower the vehicle off the jack stands using the jack. Remove the jack stands and fully tighten the lug nuts with the lug wrench.

Conclusion

By following these steps, you can successfully change a car brake rotor and maintain the safety and performance of your vehicle's braking system. Remember to always consult your car's specific manual for any additional instructions or precautions.

MethodsDetails
Step 1Gather the necessary tools and materials
Step 2Prepare the vehicle
Step 3Raise and secure the vehicle
Step 4Remove the wheel and caliper
Step 5Replace the brake rotor
Step 6Reassemble the wheel and lower the vehicle
car brake rotor
changing brake rotor
brake maintenance