How to Remove the Brake Disc From a 2001 Lexus ES 3000 Model

The Lexus ES300 was introduced in 1992 as a redesigned version of the ES250. The 2001 Lexus ES300 was produced with a 3-liter V-6, capable of producing 210 horsepower. The 2001 ES300 came standard with anti-lock brakes, and electronic traction control. Removing a brake disc, or rotor, from the 2001 ES300 should take no longer than 45 minutes, even if you have never attempted this work before. All of the tools needed for this project are available at an auto parts store.

Instructions

1

Lift the front of the vehicle on the side that you intend to work on. Set a jack stand beneath the lower control arm to hold the vehicle in the air more securely while you complete the rotor removal.

2

Remove all five wheel lug nuts with a lug wrench. Remove the wheel and tire assembly completely from the vehicle. You can position the wheel so that it is laying on its back near the vehicle, so that you have something other than the ground to sit on for this project.

3

Remove the caliper mounting bolts from the rear of the disc brake assembly. The caliper mounting bolts hold the caliper in place over the rotor. Use a 3/8-inch ratchet and socket set to turn the bolts counterclockwise for removal.

4

Remove the caliper from the brake assembly, using a small pry bar or flat-head screwdriver between the top of the rotor and the caliper. Set the caliper on the lower control arm so that it does not move during this operation. A loosely hanging caliper can rip or tear the brake line leading from the vehicle to the caliper.

5

Remove the caliper mounting bracket bolts from the rear of the rotor, using a 3/8-inch drive ratchet and socket to turn the bolts counterclockwise. The only brake parts that should be on the vehicle now are the caliper mounting bracket and rotor; all other brake parts should be out of the way. Remove the caliper mounting bracket from the vehicle and set it aside.

6

Remove the rotor by hand if possible. The rotor should slide off the hub with no problem because all of the other brake parts are out of the way. Corrosion and rust may be a factor, which could seize the rotor to the hub. If the rotor is seized and not removable by hand, use a hammer to tap the raised front of the rotor. Tap the rotor in between all five lug stems to create a vibrating force which will loosen the rotor from the hub. Repeat this step until the rotor comes free of the car.