How to Change Rotors on a Chrysler PT Cruiser

The rotors on the Chrysler PT Cruiser need to be in good condition for the brakes to work properly. The brake calipers rest on the rotors and are what the brake pads clamp onto to stop the car. If the rotors have grooves dug into them from bad brakes or any other damage, they need to be refinished or replaced completely. Given that brake pads need to be changed as a set, it's likely that if the rotor on one side needs changing, so does the other.

Instructions

1

Raise the end of the PT Cruiser that you're changing the rotors for on jack stands and remove the wheels. It helps to loosen the lug nuts with the wrench before raising the car. If you're raising the rear end, release the parking brake.

2

Prepare the brake caliper on the rotor for removal. Clean it with a brake cleaner spray, using a drain pan to catch the residue--never use compressed air. Retract the caliper piston into its bore with a C-clamp. Siphon out fluid from the master cylinder if needed, to prevent overflow.

3

Disconnect the brake caliper and its mounting bracket (front rotors only) from the rotor by removing the mounting bolts with a ratchet wrench. Hang the caliper somewhere secure with a strong wire. Don't hang the caliper by its hose, and don't disconnect the hose (or you'll have to bleed the system later).

4

Remove the rotor from the hub. If the rotor is stuck to the hub, insert two bolts into the threaded holes on the rotor and tighten them to force the rotor off the hub.

5

Take the rotor to an automotive machine shop to have it refinished if possible. The rotor cannot be finished down to less than the minimum thickness stated on the inside of the rotor. Use a micrometer to check the rotor's thickness.

6

Wipe away any glaze on the rotor (especially a new one) by rubbing it with an emory cloth or sandpaper, using swirling motions.

7

Place the new or refinished rotor back over the wheel studs on the hub; use the wheel lug nuts to temporarily keep it in place. Reconnect the brake caliper to the rotor, remove the lug nuts, then reconnect the wheel and lower the car.

8

Pump the Cruiser's brake pedal multiple times to make sure the brake pads are properly seated on the rotor.