How to Change the Rotors on a 2003 Elantra

Changing the rotors on a 2003 Hyundai Elantra is a simple task suitable for a do-it-yourselfer. The rotors must be changed when they are warped, too thin, too grooved, cracked or have hard spots due to overheating. If any of these conditions exist, the pads must also be replaced. Brake pads typically exhibit the same condition or wear as the rotor and will transfer their imperfections to the new rotor in short order, shortening the service life of the new rotor.

Instructions

1

Loosen the lug nuts on the front wheels while the wheels are on the ground using the lug wrench. Raise the car and place jack stands under the frame. Lower the car so it rests on the stands. Continue removing the lug nuts and the wheels.

2

Open the caliper bleeder screw with a wrench. Insert a common screwdriver between the inside brake pad and the rotor. Pry the pad away from the rotor forcing the piston into the caliper. Close the bleeder screw and snug it up with the wrench, but do not overtighten or it will break off since it is hollow.

3

Remove the two bolts securing the caliper to the mounting bracket using a socket. Lift the caliper off the rotor and suspend it from the spring with a suitable piece of rope. Remove the brake pads from the mounting bracket. Remove the two bolts securing the mounting bracket to the knuckle using a socket.

4

Remove the two Phillips screws from the rotor using the impact Phillips screwdriver. Tap the rotor hub with a hammer to break it loose and lift it off the hub.

5

Install the new rotor and thread the two Phillips screws through the rotor into the hub. Install the mounting bracket and tighten the bolts to 85 foot-pounds of torque. Install the new brake pads into the slots in the mounting bracket, making sure the anti-rattle clips are located properly on each end of the brake pads.

6

Lower the caliper over the brake pads and install the two caliper retaining bolts. Tighten the two bolts to 28 foot-pounds of torque. Install the wheel and tighten the lug nuts until they are all in contact with the wheel. Lower the Elantra and tighten all the lug nuts to 90 foot-pounds of torque.