Mazda Millenia Brake Rotor Removal

The Mazda Millenia uses a hydraulic caliper to apply friction to a brake rotor, stopping the vehicle. This rotor can wear out or become damaged from debris or lack of maintenance. As the rotor begins to degrade, the surface can warp or fracture, and could be potentially dangerous. The average backyard mechanic can remove a brake rotor in about 20 minutes.

Access

The rotor is an integral part of the braking system, but it is embedded behind other components. By lifting the Mazda at the frame rail and removing the wheel, access to the brake is possible. Inspect the assembly for damage and debris. The rotor should feel smooth and have a silver, shiny appearance. Pitted or rusty rotors are a sign of poor maintenance.

Caliper

The caliper has two bolts on the rear of the housing that attach them to the brake assembly. Turning them counterclockwise will release them, and you can slide the caliper off the rotor disk. Remove the caliper's pads by gently prying them loose with a screwdriver. But secure the caliper to the control arm of the car or tie it up so you don't damage the brake line to which it is attached.

Some pros will clamp the caliper pistons to ensure easy replacement of the caliper, as they will expand when removed. On heavy-duty vehicles with large calipers, this could be a problem; but the Mazda's caliper pistons are not difficult to press back in.

Removal

Once the caliper is off, the rotor will pull directly away from the hub. Thoroughly inspect it for damage, and measure it for thickness. Turning the rotors is the economical way to replace the unit; but if you resurface them without enough material, they could warp or become a hazard. Change the pads when you change the rotors, so they can "mate" together. If you use old pads, the lifespan of the new rotor will be diminished, and the car may not stop as well as it could.