Replace Brakes and Rotors on Your Own Car. Watch this video tutorial to learn exactly, step-by-step, how to replace your own brakes and rotors on your own car. Even if you aren’t necessarily up for doing the brake job yourself, we explain exactly how brakes and rotors work, so that the next time you take your car to your mechanic, you will have the knowledge and understanding to discuss what is going on with your car, and be able to ask questions of the mechanic.
And if you are interested in doing your own brake and rotor job, you can save literally hundreds of dollars by doing it yourself! We place an emphasis on clear instructions and safety, so that you can feel comfortable tackling your own brakes and rotors. We show you:
- How to safely remove the lug nuts and tires
- Exactly how the caliper, brakes and rotors work together to stop your car while you are driving
- What to look for on the rotor and brake pads to determine if they need to be replaced
- How to remove the caliper and the old rotor
- How to remove the old brake pads, and ensure that the caliper and caliper pins are functioning properly
- How to install the new brake pads
- How to install the new rotor, and mount the caliper on the new rotor
- How to re-attach the tire and torque the lug nuts
You know what? You can do this!
by See Jane Drill, Copyright 2014, All Rights Reserved
Well I’ll be! That’s a heck of a lot less complicated than I thought. Didn’t know what a brake rotor nor caliper was. Thank you, Leah. Even if I don’t do this myself, like you said, I’ll be able to speak intelligently w/ my mechanic about brake service from now on. — I do have a question for you. Do any of your videos include information re: how to properly lift/raise and secure a vehicle into place for maintenance?
Ty again for another great DIY video
BJ
Hi BJ, that’s great, and thanks for watching! As for the video you requested, we haven’t done one yet, but it is definitely on our list. Regards, Leah
Well, well, well! Like BJ, I have always thought that getting my brakes done was extremely complicated. I almost feel as though I COULD do this! Now, I too, will be able to understand and converse with the mechanic. Thanks again for another fantastic video. You are the best!
Victoria
Thank you, Victoria, I’m glad the video was helpful, and that you will use the info to your advantage! Regards, Leah
You are my new favorite rockstar! Thanks for a clear tutorial. I’ve always wanted to learn automotive repair. Home repair and improvements are in my wheelhouse, but not autos.
Hi Brittany! Thanks for writing in. Love your PrettyHandyGirl blog too!
I learned a lot today. I may never do this. But I definitely know what is involved now. It behooves me to think that I have to pay that much for a break job!!!
Glad it was helpful!
you should mention using a dead blow hammer or a block of wood to protect the rotors if you were not replacing them
that’s a good point
Leah,
I’m a licensed home improvement contractor, and a former ASE certified auto mechanic. Not much that I can’t professionally fix or build. I thought I was an endangered species. Then I came across your website and YouTube videos. YOU ARE AWESOME! Keep doing what you do. Your knowledge of the trades is spot on, your delivery is flawless, and we need people like you encouraging more young people (especially women) to get into the trades. Thank you for your wonderful videos.
Hi Doug, wow, thank you so much! It is always nice to hear from fellow skilled tradesmen. I appreciate your kind comments, and glad you like our videos!