How to Install Brake Rotors
Fortunately, installing brake rotors is a job that anyone can do on their own vehicle. You'll need the right tools, a safe place to work and the correct brake rotors for your vehicle. Your local auto parts dealer will assist you in getting the right ones, and may be able to answer questions that you may have, as well.
- Pick up a container of anti-seize and some brake fluid when you buy the rotors.
- Set the parking brake and block the wheels on the opposite end that you are working on.
- Remove the wheel and open the brake line bleeder valve on the caliper. This will allow you to relieve the pressure so that the caliper can come off.
- Wedge a big screwdriver in between the rotor and brake pad on one side and gently pry the piston back. Brake fluid may squirt out.
- Remove the bolts that hold the caliper onto the assembly and the bolts that hold the rotor on the wheel hub. Rotors are often stuck on from corrosion, so you may need to tap your rotor away from the hub with a rubber mallet or hammer.
- Clean up the flat surface of the hub and all bolts with a wire brush to remove corrosion and apply a thin layer of anti-seize, a corrosion inhibitor, on the metal surface of the hub and bolts and place the new rotor on.
- Reassemble in reverse order and put the wheel back on.
- Check the brake fluid reservoir and add more fluid, if necessary.
- Bleed the brakes if required. You'll need one person to pump and hold the brake pedal while another opens and closes the bleeder valve to release air if you don't have self-bleeding brakes.
- Start the vehicle and press the brake pedal a few times to be sure that all seems to be working properly.