With basic tools, you can replace your brake discs yourself and save a considerable amount on garage costs. The most important thing is that you always replace the brake discs per axle – both front wheels or both rear wheels at the same time – and that you replace the brake pads as well if they need replacing. Below, you can find out when your brake discs need replacing, what tools you’ll need and how to go about it step by step.
When should you replace the brake discs?
Brake discs wear out more slowly than brake pads, but they also have a limited service life of between 50,000 and 120,000 kilometres, depending on your driving style. You can recognise worn brake discs by a visible groove or ridge, a vibrating steering wheel or brake pedal, and a longer braking distance. If the disc is below the minimum thickness – which is indicated on the disc itself or in the owner’s manual – it needs replacing. Be sure to replace the brake pads at the same time, as new pads on worn discs wear out more quickly and are less effective at braking. Check the brake discs every time you change your tyres, as they are easily accessible then.
What tools do you need?
- A jack or ramp to lift the car safely
- Open-ended or socket spanner for the wheel bolts and brake caliper bolts
- Screwdriver for any locking screws on the brake disc
- Torque wrench for tightening bolts at the right moment
- A hammer, in case the brake disc is seized due to corrosion
- Brake cleaner for removing protective grease and dirt
Replacing brake discs: step-by-step guide
Always replace the brake discs on each axle and finish work on one wheel before moving on to the next. Follow these steps:
- Loosen the wheel bolts by a quarter turn whilst the car is still on the ground;
- Jack up the car using the correct jacking point and completely unscrew the wheel bolts;
- Remove the wheel and detach the brake caliper by removing the fixing bolts. Suspend the brake caliper using a hook or wire so that the brake line is not under tension;
- Remove the lock nut from the brake disc, if there is one, and remove the old brake disc from the wheel hub; if the disc is stuck, give it a few light taps with a hammer;
- Clean the wheel hub with a wire brush and spray the new brake disc with brake cleaner to remove the protective grease;
- Fit the new brake disc onto the wheel hub and tighten the locking screw;
- If necessary, fit new brake pads into the brake caliper and gently push the brake pistons back;
- Refitting the brake caliper and tightening the bolts to the specified torque;
- Refit the wheel and tighten the wheel bolts in a star pattern using a torque wrench.
Once you’ve finished, pump the brake pedal a few times to ensure the brake cylinders are in the correct position, and test the brakes at low speed before setting off.
What should you look out for after replacing it?
Just like new brake pads, new brake discs need a running-in period to perform at their best. Drive gently for the first 200 kilometres and avoid hard braking, so that the pads and discs can bed in evenly. After 50 to 100 kilometres, check that all bolts are still tight, as they may loosen slightly at first. If you hear a persistent screeching or grinding noise when braking, check that the brake caliper is fitted correctly and that the brake pistons have been pushed back properly. Also check the brake fluid level, as pushing the pistons back can cause the level in the reservoir to rise.
Need brake discs? Japoto can help
At Japoto, you’ll find brake discs, brake pads and brake parts for Japanese and Korean brands, with over 70,000 items in stock. Not sure which part you need? Please get in touch via 0596 – 57 2992 or send an email to info@japoto.nl.