How to Replace Rotors on a 2005 Chevy Impala

Brake rotors on the Chevy Impala use friction to slow and stop the car when you depress the brake pedal. A piston from the brake caliper holds the two brake pads, which squeeze the brake rotor, forcing the car to slow down. The brake rotors get hot when you apply the brakes and can warp from too much heat. Allowing brake pads to wear too thin also damages the rotors by damaging the rivets holding the brake lining on the pad, cutting grooves into the rotor. Damaged rotors need to be replaced and do not take long to repair.

Instructions

1

Park the Impala on a level surface, turn off the ignition and place a set of wheel chocks behind the rear wheels. Open the engine compartment and drain some of the brake fluid from the master cylinder using the turkey baster and drain pan.Loosen the wheel's lug nuts with a lug wrench. Jack the car up with the automobile jack. Place a jack stand under the Chevy near the jacking point and raise it to the frame of the car.

2

Remove the wheel lug nuts with a lug wrench. Take the wheel off the vehicle. Remove the brake caliper using a socket and ratchet. Secure it to the strut using a wire tie. Do not allow it to hang loose or you will damage the brake line.

3

Pull the old rotor off the wheel hub. If it does not come off easily, use the rubber mallet to strike the rotor until it breaks free. Put the new rotor on the Impala.

4

Cut the wire tie securing the caliper to the strut with pliers. Put the caliper in place on the wheel assembly and tighten the bolts with the socket and ratchet. Replace the wheel on the Impala and tighten its lug nuts with the lug wrench. Remove the jack stand from under the car.

5

Lower the car to the ground with the car jack. Repeat the process to change the rotor on the other wheel. When the project is complete, pump the brakes several times until the pedal feels firm. Replace the brake fluid in the master cylinder, as needed.