How to Replace Front Brake Rotors on a 2003 Chevy Silverado

The brake rotors -- also called discs -- on your Chevy Silverado need to be in good condition. Noticeable scratches or grooves on the rotors, or a disc worn down to below its minimum thickness (this thickness is printed on the disc) means replacement is necessary. If you need to replace one brake rotor, you likely need to replace both. Inspect the condition of the rotors anytime you change the brake pads.

Instructions

1

Raise the Silverado's front and support it on jack stands. Remove the wheel, then place the lug nuts finger-tight on the wheel studs to hold the rotors in place.

2

Unbolt and remove the brake caliper from the rotor using a wrench, and suspend the caliper somewhere with a strong wire to protect the brake hose. Unbolt and remove the mounting bracket.

3

Remove the lug nuts from the rotor and cut off any pressed metal washers or clips that are on the studs using cutting pliers. Pull and slide the rotor off the studs and hub.

4

Slide the replacement brake rotor onto the studs and all the way to the hub. You do not need to install any new pressed washers on this hub.

5

Connect the caliper mounting bracket to the rotor, tightening the mounting bolts with a torque wrench to 129 foot-pounds for a 1500 model Silverado and 221 foot-pounds for a 2500.

6

Reconnect the brake caliper to the mounting bracket and tighten its bolts to 80 foot-pounds.

7

Reconnect the wheel and lower the Silverado off the jack stands.