How to Replace the Rotor in a Toyota Highlander

Your Toyota Highlander relies on brake rotors, calipers and brake pads all working together to bring your vehicle to a halt. If your Highlander seems to be pulsing and shuddering when you hit the brakes, then the rotors are probably to blame. Rotors don't need to be replaced very often, but if they get too worn down or become warped, then it's time to swap them out for new ones.

Difficulty:

Moderate

Instructions

1. • 1

     Buy new rotors for your Toyota Highlander at your local auto parts store or order brake rotors online. It's best to replace all of the rotors at once, but you can get away with replacing just the front or rear end pair at the same time. Never replace just one rotor, as this causes uneven and very unsafe braking.

   • 2

     Raise your Highlander on jacks and jack stands to get it off of the ground. Block the wheels to keep it from rolling while you work. Remove the first tire and wheel assembly.

   • 3

     Unfasten the caliper mounting bolts and then slide the caliper off of the rotor. Suspend the caliper assembly and attached brake line with heavy mechanic's wire or a bungee cord to keep it out of the way while you work. Don't allow the brake line to become disconnected from the caliper at any point.

   • 4

     Remove the rotor holding screws and then pull the old rotor off of the hub. Clean the area around the hub with a damp cloth to remove corrosion and dirt. Install the new rotor onto the hub and tighten the holding screws.

   • 5

     Discard the wire and mount the caliper assembly and brake line back into position. Tighten the caliper mounting bolts with a torque wrench or an air ratchet with an appropriate adapter.

   • 6

     Repeat this process for each additional rotor. When you're done, lower the Toyota, tighten and torque the lug nuts and then pump the brake until you get a firm pedal before you road test your Toyota Highlander.