How to Replace the Rotor in a Ford Focus

If you can feel pulsing and vibrating through the brake pedal when you're slowing down in your Ford Focus, but you know that your brake pads are fine, chances are that it's time to replace the rotors. Rotors only need to be changed if they become warped or worn down, but the process is the same across all model years with only a slight difference for the Focus SVT.

Instructions

For the Ford Focus excluding the SVT

1

Jack up your Ford Focus. Disconnect the negative battery cable. Remove the tire and wheel assembly and set aside.

2

Remove the outer brake pad retaining clip and the brake hose from its support bracket. Use a c-clamp if necessary or pull the caliper outward to release the piston. Suspend the caliper and attached brake line with mechanic's wire.

3

Pull off the old rotor and clean any dirt or corrosion off with a damp cloth. Install the new rotor and tighten the holding screws. Discard the mechanic's wire and mount the brake line and caliper back into place. Tighten the caliper bolts with a torque wrench to 21 ft. lbs. (28 Nm).

4

Replace the outer brake pad retaining clip and install the wheel assembly and tire. Repeat this process for each additional rotor, lower the vehicle and tighten the tire lug nuts with a torque wrench or an air ratchet with an appropriate adapter. Test drive your Ford Focus to make sure that the rotor installation was successful.

For the SVT

5

Raise your Focus SVT using jacks and jack stands. Block the wheels to keep your car from rolling while you work. Disconnect the negative battery cable before you start.

6

Remove the tire and wheel assembly. Next, remove the caliper mounting bolts and slide the caliper off of the brake disc (rotor). Suspend the caliper and connected brake line with mechanic's wire.

7

Pull off the old rotor. Clean the area with a damp cloth to remove any dust or corrosion. Slide the new rotor into position and replace the caliper and brake hose to their proper positions. Mount the caliper bolts with a torque wrench to 98 ft. lbs. (133 Nm).

8

Replace the wheel assembly, tire and lug nuts. Repeat for each additional wheel and lower the vehicle, tighten the lug nuts with a torque wrench and test drive your Ford Focus SVT to make sure that everything is working properly.