Step-by-Step Instructions on How to Replace the Rotors on a 2003 Ford Explorer

The brakes on the 2003 Ford Explorer require regular maintenance to ensure consistent performance. Scored or warped brake rotors will not only lead to a diminished performance but also cause premature wearing of new brake pads. You can choose to have the brake rotors replaced by a professional brake mechanic or you can purchase the necessary tools and lubricants to replace the rotors yourself.

Instructions

1

Park the Explorer on a flat surface and pull the hood release lever located under the dashboard on the driver's side of the vehicle. Move to the front of the vehicle and lift the hood.

2

Remove the master cylinder and siphon one-half of the brake fluid from the container with the poultry baster or syringe. Place the shop rag over the master cylinder to keep debris from falling into the remaining brake fluid in the reservoir.

3

Loosen the lug nuts on the wheels requiring repair with the tire iron. Lift the Ford with the lifting jack and the rest the front axles on at least two jack stands. Remove the lug nuts and take the wheels off.

4

Remove the two caliper slide bowls with a 10 mm socket and ratchet. Lift the calipers from the brake assembly and suspend them above the brakes with bungee cords. Remove the two brake pads from

the caliper bracket. Remove the caliper bracket bolts with a 15 mm wrench. Remove the caliper bracket and set it aside.

5

Grab the rotor on either side and pull it straight from the wheel hub. Clean the area behind the rotor with brake cleaner and a wire brush. Remove the new rotor from its packaging and clean it thoroughly with a cloth towel and brake parts cleaner. Slide the new rotor onto the wheel bolts with the center-raised section facing outward.

6

Replace the caliper bracket onto the rotor and screw on the caliper bracket bolts. Slide the new brake pads onto the caliper bracket mounts. Replace the caliper onto the new brake pads and screw on the caliper slide bolts. Replace the Ford's wheels onto the wheel bolts and screw on the lug nuts by hand.

7

Lift the Explorer with the jack and remove the jack stands. Lower the vehicle's tires to the ground and screw on the lug nuts with the tire iron. Return to the engine compartment.

8

Remove the shop rag and place a funnel inside the master cylinder. Fill the master cylinder with

DOT-3 brake fluid. Remove the funnel, replace the master cylinder cap and close the hood.