How to Replace Brake Discs?
3 Answers
First, remove the brake caliper and then the brake disc shield. Inspect the brake disc for deep grooves caused by foreign object abrasion or uneven wear on the disc surface. Install the new brake disc shield, tighten the rear wheel bearing, attach the bearing cap, and mount the caliper bracket. After installing the brake pads, reattach the brake caliper and tighten the screws.
I've changed brake discs myself many times, it's not too difficult but requires some mechanical basics. First, make sure the car is parked on a level surface, engage the handbrake, and lift the wheel with a jack—don't forget to place wheel chocks for safety. Then remove the wheel to access the caliper, unbolt it and carefully remove the caliper without damaging the brake line. Next, take off the old brake disc and install the new one, ensuring the disc surface is clean and free from oil contamination. When reinstalling the caliper, align the bolts and tighten them properly without over-torquing. Finally, put the wheel back on, lower the car, and take a short drive to test the brakes for any unusual noises. For tools, you'll need a set of wrenches, a torque wrench, and a proper jack. DIY usually takes about one to two hours, saving money while learning some skills, but if you're not familiar, it's safer to have someone supervise.
As an average car owner, I believe brake disc replacement is a safety-critical task that shouldn't be taken lightly. The basic procedure involves lifting the vehicle, removing the wheels, handling the calipers, then swapping the old discs for new ones. However, key details matter - new discs must be perfectly flat without scratches, and bolts need uniform tightening without tilting. Damaging the braking system accidentally could lead to loss of control while driving, ranging from brake noise to serious accidents. Therefore, I recommend non-professionals visit authorized repair shops where technicians can inspect the entire system and perform professional calibrations with proper tools. The cost is usually a few hundred yuan depending on the vehicle model. DIY attempts may take half a day without proper tools, making it counterproductive. Most importantly, regularly check disc thickness to identify issues early before they're completely worn down.
