How to Replace the Brake Rotors on a 1996 Jeep Cherokee

The brakes on a 1996 Cherokee function by the brake calipers squeezing the brake pads against the rotors. The friction created by the pads and rotors bring the SUV to a complete stop. Over time, this constant heat and pressure can wear out the rotors. When the rotors become worn, they must be replaced or additional problems may occur. Driving on worn rotors can lead to brake pad damage, caliper leakage or even complete brake failure.

Instructions

1

Loosen the Cherokee's front lug nuts, using the ratchet and socket.

2

Raise the Cherokee's front wheels off the ground, using the floor jack. Support the vehicle by placing the jack stands beneath it.

3

Remove the front lug nuts and pull the wheels from the Cherokee.

4

Place the C-clamp's jaws over the brake caliper, positioning the fixed portion so that it touches the rear of the caliper body and the screw portion so that it contacts the outer brake pad.

5

Tighten the C-clamp until the inner caliper piston is completely pressed into the caliper and the C-clamp can no longer be tightened when the piston is fully pressed in.

6

Look at the rear side of the caliper and locate the upper and lower caliper bolts.

7

Loosen the upper and lower caliper bolts, using the ratchet and socket. Pull the bolts from the caliper.

8

Lift the caliper up and pull it away from the brake assembly, noticing the brake pads remain attached to the caliper. Attach the caliper to a suspension component using the bungee strap; never allow it to hang by the rubber brake hose.

9

Grab the rotor, the large, metal disc, and pull it toward you to remove it. Notice the wheel studs remain on the vehicle's hub.

10

Place the new rotor on the Cherokee's hub, lining the wheel studs up with the holes in the rotor.

11

Remove the bungee strap holding the caliper and place the caliper over the new brake rotor.

12

Tighten the upper and lower caliper bolts, using the ratchet and socket.

13

Repeat steps number 4 through 12 for the rotor on the opposite side of the Cherokee.

14

Place the wheels on the Cherokee and hand-tighten the lug nuts.

15

Remove the jack stands and lower the Cherokee, slowly, to the ground.

16

Torque the front lug nuts to 75 foot-pounds, in a star pattern, using the torque wrench and a socket.

17

Build pressure in the brake lines by pressing and releasing the brake pedal until it feels firm.