How to Replace a Rear Brake Rotor on a Ford Explorer

The rear brake rotors on the Ford Explorer are subject to the same stress that the front rotors experience. Brake rotors work with the brake pads, using friction to slow and stop your Explorer. The brake caliper houses a piston. When you push on the brake pedal with you foot, it forces brake fluid through the lines. That brake fluid pushes the piston out on the caliper. That causes the brake pads to squeeze the rotor between them until the Ford stops.

Instructions

1

Place a set of wheel chocks in front of the front tires. Jack the Explorer up using the automobile jack. Place the jack stand under the Ford near the jacking point and raise it to the frame.

2

Remove the lug nuts with the lug wrench and pull the wheel off the Explorer. Remove the brake caliper using the Torx socket and the ratchet. Secure the caliper to the rear spring or the shock absorber using a wire tie. Do not allow the caliper to hang loose or you will damage the brake line.

3

Pull the brake rotor off the wheel assembly. Put the new rotor in place on the wheel assembly.

4

Cut the wire tie holding the caliper to the shock absorber with the pliers. Place the caliper in the mounting bracket and tighten the retaining bolts with the Torx socket and ratchet. Place the wheel back on the Explorer. Tighten the lug nuts with the lug wrench.

5

Remove the jack stand from under the Ford and lower the vehicle to the ground. Repeat the process on the other wheel.