About Replacing Brake Rotors

Replacing brake rotors in itself is not a difficult job. However, due to the heat generated in a disc braking system, components are often brittle, meaning they break easily, corroded and just plain stuck. Be on the look out and prepared for possible problems when replacing your brake rotors. A can of WD-40 comes in quite handy for seized bolts.

Prepare For Problems

As mentioned above, bolts and metal components tend to seize when exposed to repeated heating and cooling. Spray down those items with WD-40 the day before you are replacing your brake rotors.

Try to do the job when your local auto parts stores are open. That way if something gets broken, such as snapping off the head of the bolt, you can get a replacement quickly and still get the job done in a day.

Give yourself plenty of time in case you do run into unexpected problems. Don't start the job on Sunday if you plan on using the vehicle on Monday.

Prepare for the Job

Gather the required tools and equipment to do the job. You'll need:

• Wrenches, a ratchet and sockets in standard and metric sizes, depending on the make of the vehicle


• Jack stand


• Blocks for the wheels to prevent it from moving


• WD-40 and a container of anti-seize agent


• Possibly an Allen wrench to back out the bolt that holds the piston on.


• A large screwdriver for prying


• Old clothes - It's a very dirty job!


• Trouble light


• Wire brush


• A helpful friend


• A stool

Get the Right Rotors

Your auto parts store will ask you about the year, make and model of your vehicle and offer you standard, mid-range and high-end or performance replacement parts. Go with what you really need. If you don't own a performance vehicle, go for the mid-range rotors for your vehicle.