How to Replace Front Rotors on a Mazda 6

If you notice your brakes are screeching or no longer brake as effectively, it's time to inspect your Mazda 6's braking system. If you notice significant wear or rust on the rotor, then it's time for it to be replaced. Replacing your front brake rotor sounds complex, but it's actually a fairly easy process. All it takes is the right set of instructions and a little elbow grease and you'll have your Mazda 6 road safe in no time.

Instructions

1

Park your car on flat surface, and put a stopping block down behind the opposite wheel from the one you'll be working on to assure yourself the car will not be moving anywhere. Put on a face mask and safety glasses before you begin working on the brakes, since some brake pads and brake dust can contain asbestos.

2

Jack up the car, and support it on jack stands. Loosen all the lugs holding the wheel in place with a lug wrench or tire iron. Firmly grip the wheel in both hands, and pull it away from your car to access the brake system. Inspect the braking system: if you notice any significant rust buildup, scarring, wear or warping on the rotor, then it's time to replace it.

3

Remove the two mounting bolts for the brake line, and gently slide the brake line out to gain more play for removing the caliper. Remove the two caliper bolts, and gently lift the caliper from the caliper mount. Gently set it aside or tie it with a bungee cord out of the way. Pay extra attention not to kink or pinch the caliper flex hose to avoid damaging the brake fluid line.

4

Remove the two bolts holding the caliper mounting bracket in place, and gently remove the caliper mounting bracket from the rotor. Use a heating torch to heat up the outside area around the two Philips screws holding the rotor in place; this will allow you to unscrew them without stripping the heads. Remove the two Phillips screws.

5

Firmly grip the rotor with both hands, and pull it off the axle plate. If it's very stubborn and won't pull off, use a rubber mallet to help it along. Clean the axle plate with brake parts cleaner from any residual rust from the old rotor. Clean the new rotor with brake parts cleaner and wipe it down with a clean shop rag. Slide the new rotor onto the mounting until it's flush with the axle plate.

6

Reconstruct the braking system in the reverse order. Place the wheel back on and secure in place with lugs. Lower your car to the ground and your braking system should now be as responsive as it was when it was brand new.