MK3 Volkswagen GTI Rear Brake Rotor Installation

If you notice your MK3 Volkswagen GTI no longer brakes effectively and makes a sharp squealing noise each time you depress the brakes, it's likely time to change the brake rotors. Installing a new brake rotors is a relatively straightforward process that can be done with the help of a few common tools. The average amateur mechanic will be able to remove and install a new brake rotor with relative ease in a few hours time.

Instructions

1

Park the MK3 Volkswagen GTI on a level surface. Jack the back of the car up and secure it in place on jack stands. Equip safety glasses before you begin to work on the brakes to prevent any eye irritation and damage.

2

Loosen and remove the wheel lugs using a lug wrench or tire iron. Firmly grip the wheel with both hands and pull it away from the car to access the braking system. Inspect the rotor. If you notice any severe scarring, wear, warping or rust, you need to replace it.

3

Grip firmly the cap located at the center of the wheel mounting with large water pump pliers and carefully pull it off. Try not to crush or damage it; if it's exceptionally stubborn, gently help it along with a small pry bar.

4

Unfasten and remove both the upper and lower caliper bolts using a 13 mm socket and socket wrench. Carefully pull the caliper off of its mounting brackets, paying extra attention not to kink or damage the brake fluid line. Suspend the caliper out of the way with a bungee cord. Never allow the caliper to hang freely by the brake fluid line.

5

Loosen and remove the two bolts securing the caliper mounting in place using an 8 mm Allen socket attached to an extended ratchet. Pull the caliper mounting off the rotor and set it aside.

6

Remove the cotter pin holding the rotor in place by prying it out with a pair of needle nose pliers. Immediately discard the old cotter pin into the trash; do not reuse it. Grip the cotter pin nut with a water pump pliers and loosen it until hand tight and remove it by hand.

7

Grip the rotor with both hands and pull it away from the axle plate. If it's extremely stubborn, strike the back of the rotor with a rubber mallet to help it along. Be careful not to allow it fall onto the ground.

8

Clean the new rotor with brakes parts cleaner spray. Wipe away any excess cleaner with a clean shop rag. Slide the new rotor onto the wheel mounting until it rests evenly against the axle plate. Screw the cotter pin nut into place and put in a new cotter pin to hold the rotor in place.

9

Reassemble the brake system in the reverse order of removal. Remount the wheel and secure it in place with wheel lugs. Jack up the car, remove the jack stands and lower the car to the ground.