How to Change Brake Rotors and Pads

Brake Rotors and Pads: The Basics

Your brakes provide arguably the most important function of your Toyota since they protect you and your passengers by allowing your car to stop. Within the braking system of your ride, there are brake rotors and brake pads. The brake rotors are circular discs attached to each wheel and they’re intended to turn kinetic energy (motion) into thermal energy (heat). Likewise, the purpose of brake pads is to turn motion into heat by using friction.

The rotors and pads—along with many other components—work in tandem to stop your vehicle. Specifically, when the brake pad and rotor come in contact, the brake pad begins to transmit friction material to the rotor. This causes the two pieces to stick together and that results in stopping your car.

Step 1: Remove Old Brake Pads and Rotors

Before anything else, make sure you have yourself set up with safety goggles and gloves, and have your car raised and wheel removed. You’ll also want to check your ride’s brake fluid, removing any excess. Remove the bolts and the caliper, and use a bungee cord for suspension.

Now, it’s time to take out the old brake pads and rotors.

First, remove the pads and look for uneven wear. You’ll most likely need to remove the caliper mounting bracket before removing the rotor so do so carefully. As with the pads, pay attention to uneven wear on the caliper, as well as rust. When this is done, make sure to clean the hub surface with a wire brush to get rid of debris and rust, as well as the rotor itself.

Step 2: Install the New Rotor, Brake Hardware, and New Brake Pads

You’re now ready to install the new rotor, and replace the old brake hardware. Remember to use brake lubricant on the slider contact points before installing the new hardware. Next, take notice of the wear-sensor position orientation, and then install the brake pads.

Step 3: Inspect Brake Caliper, Piston and Compress

Check out the brake caliper and piston for leaking brake fluid. If they are clean, use the front/rear disc brake pad spreader set to seat the caliper piston. Then, take the bungee cord off and put the caliper back on, remembering not to overtighten the caliper bolts.

Step 4: Check Brake Fluid Reservoir and Pump the Brakes

Ensure the brake fluid reservoir is filled to the maximum level, and check that the reservoir cap is installed. You’ll next need to pump the brakes in order to see if brake fluid is flowing correctly. Once you’re inside the car, pump the brake pedal slowly until it feels firm, but do not press the pedal all the way down, as this could damage the brake master cylinder assembly. After this, you’ll want to again check the brake fluid reservoir and top it off if needed.

Step 5: Install the Wheel and Lower the Car

While the car is still raised, install the wheel and tighten the lug nuts. Raise the vehicle with a jack, then remove the jack stands, lower the vehicle, and tighten the lug nuts again.

Step 6: Repeat Process on the Other Wheels

Now, repeat all of the above steps on your car’s remaining wheels!

How Our Service Department Can Help

Our team of service technicians have the dedication and know-how that it takes to get your Toyota back out on the Massachusetts roadways with quality results and in a timely manner. We also use only genuine Toyota parts for all repairs, so your Toyota can stay as close to its original form as possible.

Additionally, we make it convenient for our customers to schedule service with us. Simply go to our site, plug in a few vehicle specifics, and make an appointment.