How To Replace Disc Brakes And Rotors?

Replacing disc brakes and rotors is an essential maintenance task that can save you money and ensure your vehicle’s safety. This process involves removing the old, worn components and installing new ones to restore your car’s braking performance. While it may seem daunting at first, with the right tools and knowledge, you can complete this task at home.

Before diving into the replacement process, it’s crucial to understand the components involved. Disc brakes consist of brake pads, rotors (also called discs), and calipers. The brake pads press against the rotors when you apply the brakes, creating friction to slow down your vehicle. Over time, both the pads and rotors wear down and need replacement.

Here’s a quick overview of the tools and parts you’ll need for this job:

Preparation and Safety

Before you begin, ensure you have all the necessary tools and parts. Safety should be your top priority when working on your vehicle. Park your car on a flat, level surface and engage the parking brake. Loosen the lug nuts on the wheel you’ll be working on, but don’t remove them completely yet.

Next, use a jack to lift the vehicle and support it securely with jack stands. Never rely solely on a jack to hold up your car. Once the vehicle is safely elevated, remove the wheel to access the brake assembly.

Inspecting the Brake System

Before replacing any components, take a moment to inspect the entire brake system. Look for signs of leaks, damaged brake lines, or excessive rust. If you notice any of these issues, it’s best to address them before proceeding with the replacement.

Removing the Old Brake Pads and Rotors

Start by locating the brake caliper. It’s the large clamp-like component that holds the brake pads against the rotor. You’ll need to remove this first to access the brake pads and rotor.

• Locate the caliper bolts and remove them using a socket wrench
• Carefully lift the caliper off the rotor and secure it with a bungee cord or wire
• Do not let the caliper hang by the brake hose, as this can cause damage

With the caliper removed, you can now take out the old brake pads. They should slide out easily, but if they’re stuck, use a flathead screwdriver to gently pry them out. Take note of how they’re positioned, as you’ll need to install the new pads in the same orientation.

Next, it’s time to remove the rotor:

• Look for any retaining screws holding the rotor in place and remove them
• If the rotor is stuck due to rust, use a rubber mallet to gently tap it loose
• Once free, pull the rotor off the wheel hub

Cleaning and Preparing the Hub

With the old rotor removed, you’ll see the wheel hub. This is an excellent opportunity to clean it:

• Use a wire brush to remove any rust or debris from the hub surface
• Apply brake cleaner to remove any remaining dirt or grease
• Ensure the hub surface is completely clean and dry before installing the new rotor

Installing New Rotors and Brake Pads

Now that you’ve removed the old components and cleaned the hub, it’s time to install the new parts. Start with the new rotor:

• Apply a thin layer of anti-seize lubricant to the hub surface to prevent future sticking
• Carefully slide the new rotor onto the hub, making sure it sits flush
• If applicable, replace and tighten any rotor retaining screws

Next, it’s time to install the new brake pads:

• Check the brake pad box to see if they need any shims or if they’re pre-shimmed
• Apply a small amount of brake pad lubricant to the back of the pads and any contact points with the caliper
• Slide the new pads into place, ensuring they’re in the same orientation as the old ones

Reinstalling the Caliper

Before you can put the caliper back on, you need to retract the caliper piston to make room for the new, thicker brake pads:

• Use a C-clamp or a caliper piston tool to slowly push the piston back into the caliper
• If your vehicle has rear disc brakes, you may need to turn the piston as you push it back

Once the piston is retracted:

• Position the caliper over the new brake pads
• Replace and tighten the caliper bolts to the manufacturer’s specified torque
• Double-check that everything is secure and properly aligned

Finishing Up and Testing

You’re almost done! Here are the final steps:

• Repeat the process for the other side of the axle (it’s recommended to replace brakes in pairs)
• Reinstall the wheels and lower the vehicle back to the ground
• Tighten the lug nuts to the proper torque specification
• Check the brake fluid level and top up if necessary

Before you take your vehicle for a spin, there’s an important step called “bedding in” the brakes:

• Find a safe, open area with no traffic
• Accelerate to about 35 mph and apply moderate brake pressure to slow down to 5 mph
• Repeat this process 5-6 times, allowing the brakes to cool between each stop
• Then do 2-3 stops from 55 mph to 5 mph
• Avoid coming to a complete stop during this process, as it can cause the new pads to stick to the rotors

This bedding process helps transfer an even layer of brake pad material to the rotor surface, ensuring optimal braking performance.

Maintenance and Care

To get the most out of your new brakes and rotors, proper maintenance is key. Here are some tips:

• Regularly inspect your brakes for wear and tear
• Listen for any unusual noises when braking
• Avoid “riding” the brakes, especially when going downhill
• If you notice any vibration or pulsing in the brake pedal, have your brakes checked

By following these maintenance tips and replacing your brakes when necessary, you’ll ensure your vehicle remains safe and performs at its best.

FAQs About How To Replace Disc Brakes And Rotors

• How often should I replace my brake pads and rotors?
  Typically, brake pads need replacement every 30,000 to 70,000 miles, while rotors can last 50,000 to 70,000 miles, depending on driving habits and conditions.
• Can I replace just the brake pads without changing the rotors?
  It’s possible, but not always recommended. If the rotors are still in good condition and within specifications, you may only need to replace the pads.
• How do I know if my rotors need to be replaced?
  Signs include visible scoring or grooves on the rotor surface, pulsation in the brake pedal, or if the rotor thickness is below the manufacturer’s specifications.
• Is it necessary to bleed the brakes after replacing pads and rotors?
  Usually not, unless you’ve opened the hydraulic system or pushed the caliper piston too far back, allowing air to enter the lines.
• Can I replace disc brakes and rotors on just one side of the vehicle?
  It’s always recommended to replace brake components in pairs (both front or both rear) to ensure even braking performance and wear.