How to Change Brake Rotors & Bearings

Automobiles manufactured with front disk braking systems use rotors and wheel bearings to stop the vehicle and keep the wheels rotating, respectively. These parts can wear out over time and require repair, maintenance or replacement. The average backyard mechanic can replace the rotor and wheel bearings in about an hour.

Instructions

1

Raise the vehicle onto the jack stand with the floor jack. Place the jack stand on a frame rail for maximum support.

2

Remove the wheel by turning the lug nuts counterclockwise. Place the wheel aside.

3

Remove the caliper and pads by turning the twin rear mount bolts counterclockwise, then sliding the caliper off the rotor. Place the caliper onto the control arm, if applicable, or use straps to support it. Do not let the caliper dangle by the brake lines. Remove the pads, if necessary.

4

Remove the cotter pin that goes through the main hub nut by straightening it out and pulling it with a pair of pliers. Place it aside.

5

Remove the hub nut by turning it in a counterclockwise direction.

6

Remove the rotor by sliding it from the hub. Some models will require that the hub nut be removed; some rotors simply slide off when the caliper is removed.

7

Remove the outer wheel bearing with a screwdriver by prying it gently from the hub.

8

Pack the wheel bearing with grease, and replace it by pressing it into the hub.

9

Replace the rotor with a resurfaced or new unit by sliding it over the hub.

10

Replace the hub nut by turning it clockwise until the cotter pin hole is lined up. Do not overtighten the nut.

11

Replace the cotter pin by pressing it through the hole. Bend the cotter pin with the pliers to prevent it from slipping out.

12

Replace the caliper by sliding it over the rotor, then turning the twin rear mount bolts clockwise.

13

Replace the wheel by turning the lug nuts in a clockwise direction, in an alternating pattern.

14

Lower the vehicle from the jack stand with the floor jack.