Can I replace brake discs myself?
Replacing brake discs is a critical maintenance task that ensures your vehicle's braking system operates effectively. While it is possible to replace brake discs yourself, it requires the right tools, knowledge, and attention to detail. In this article, we’ll explore whether this is a job you can tackle on your own or if it’s better left to professionals.
Understanding the Role of Brake Discs
Brake discs, also known as rotors, are a vital part of your car's braking system. They work in conjunction with brake pads to create the friction needed to slow down or stop your vehicle. Over time, brake discs can wear out, warp, or become damaged, which can compromise your car's safety and performance.
Can You Replace Brake Discs Yourself?
Yes, you can replace brake discs yourself if you have the necessary tools, mechanical skills, and a safe workspace. However, it’s important to understand that this is not a beginner-level task. Here are some factors to consider:
- Experience Level: If you have prior experience with car maintenance and repairs, you may find this task manageable. If not, it’s best to consult a professional.
- Tools Required: You’ll need specific tools such as a jack, jack stands, a lug wrench, a torque wrench, and possibly a brake caliper tool.
- Time Commitment: Replacing brake discs can take several hours, especially if it’s your first time.
- Safety Concerns: Working on your car’s braking system is a safety-critical task. Mistakes can lead to brake failure, which is extremely dangerous.
Steps to Replace Brake Discs
If you decide to proceed with replacing your brake discs, follow these general steps:
- Park your car on a flat surface and engage the parking brake.
- Loosen the lug nuts on the wheels but do not remove them yet.
- Use a jack to lift the car and secure it with jack stands.
- Remove the wheels to access the brake assembly.
- Unbolt the brake caliper and carefully move it aside without putting stress on the brake line.
- Remove the old brake disc by unscrewing any retaining screws or bolts.
- Clean the hub surface to ensure the new disc sits flush.
- Install the new brake disc and reattach the caliper.
- Reinstall the wheels, lower the car, and tighten the lug nuts to the manufacturer’s specifications using a torque wrench.
- Test the brakes at low speed to ensure they are functioning correctly.
When to Call a Professional
If you’re unsure about any part of the process or lack the necessary tools, it’s best to leave this job to a professional mechanic. At Kevin’s Autos, we specialize in brake repairs and replacements, ensuring your vehicle is safe and road-ready. Don’t hesitate to reach out to us for expert assistance!
Final Thoughts
Replacing brake discs yourself can save money and give you a sense of accomplishment, but it’s not a task to take lightly. Always prioritize safety and accuracy. If you’re in doubt, trust the professionals at Kevin’s Autos to handle the job for you. Your safety is worth it!
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it easy to change your own brake discs?
It's generally very easy. You'll probably need Allen wrenches too. Newer cars can have the E brake integrated into the rear calipers. This makes it more difficult to push the pistons in. There are tools you can buy but they aren't necessary if you're handy. Newer cars may also use E-torx bolts.
What is the 30/30/30 rule for brakes?
Brake specialists advise initiating new brake pads by using a 30-30-30 method: Perform 30 gradual stops from 30 mph, allowing 30 seconds between each stop for the brakes to cool. This process protects against excessive heat buildup until the resins in the pads have completely cured.
Are disc brakes expensive to replace?
Replacing both rear brake discs can cost between £125 to £350 and average around £175. This cost also includes the price of new brake pads as brake pads must also be replaced when a new set of brake discs are installed.
Are disc brakes easy to change?
It's pretty easy. The main thing you'll want to do is shim the rotors out so that they are in the same position relative to the brake calipers. That'll avoid the need to adjust the brakes between swaps.
Is it safe to replace brakes yourself?
Yes, you can replace your brakes yourself without going to a mechanic, but it requires some mechanical knowledge, the right tools, and safety precautions. Here's a general guide to help you through the process:
Is it legal to change your own brakes?
Yes, you can change brake pads yourself. The amount of work required varies depending on the vehicle you own and the type/style of brakes you need. Before you buy that first set of brake pads, you need to make a plan.
How to tell if brake discs need replacing?
How to tell if your brake pads or discs need replacing
- Screeching sounds. As already mentioned, you might hear a screeching noise from your brake pads.
- Scraping sound.
- Vibration.
- Pulling.
- Brake pedal problems.
Do I need new brake pads with new discs?
While it's possible to replace brake discs without changing the brake pads, it's not recommended.
How long do brake discs take to change?
When brake discs are replaced along with the brake pads, it can take about 1-2 hours to do the front end and about the same amount of time to do the replacements for the rear end of the vehicle. You can expect around 3-4 hours total repair time if all brake pads and discs are replaced.
How to tell if rotors are bad?
Some common symptoms of bad rotors include vibration or pulsation in the steering wheel, high-pitched squealing noise when braking, shaking steering wheel, brake pedal pulsing, vehicle taking a long time to stop, loud bangs while braking, large edges on the outer part of the brake rotor, and scratch marks on the rotor.
