Rotor Rust Removal

Brake rotors are a component of disc-brake systems, which use hydraulics to slow down and stop an automobile. When the brake pedal is depressed, brake fluid applies pressure to the rotors, causing the brake pads to tighten on the rotor. The rotor is a smooth metal disc, polished on two sides, on which the brake caliper holding the discs attaches to, with one disc on each side of the rotor. Poorly maintained rotors often rust over time and require corrosion removal to ensure the brakes operate properly and safely.

Instructions

1

Loosen the lug nuts on the wheels with disc brakes with a lug wrench. Doing this while the car is on the ground allows you to loosen the lug nuts easily.

2

Jack up the front of the vehicle. Place an auto jack under a sturdy frame area at the front of the car until the wheels are slightly off the ground. Place jack stands under a solid frame rail near the wheels for safety.

3

Remove the tire lug nuts. Using a lug wrench, remove the wheel's lug nuts until the entire rim and tire come off the car.

4

Remove the brake calipers. Brake calipers are typically mounted using two Allen-head fasteners at the top of the caliper. Using the breaker bar and the appropriate Allen socket, loosen the caliper until it easily slides off the rotor. Hang the caliper assembly over one of the front-wheel control arms. Do this for each wheel.

5

Slide the rotor off and remove the rust. While wearing safety goggles, spray the rotor liberally with brake cleaner. Using a wire brush, or steel wool, scrub the rotor until the rust is removed. Re-spray brake cleaner as needed. When finished, wash the rotor with dish detergent and water to remove any dust or metal shavings.

6

Place the rotors back onto the wheel assembly. Put the calipers over the rotor, then fasten them with the Allen socket and breaker bar until snug. Put the wheel back on and tighten the lug nuts in a criss-cross pattern (one lug, then the opposite lug) until snug.