Caliper bolts for removing a brake rotor typically range from 12mm to 19mm, while rotor retaining screws are usually 6mm, 8mm, or require a T30/T40 Torx bit. Always check your vehicle’s manual for exact sizes.
Removing a brake rotor is a crucial aspect of vehicle maintenance, especially when it comes to replacing worn-out parts or conducting a brake job. Knowing the correct bolt size is important for the procedure to go smoothly. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or a professional mechanic, understanding the specifics of the bolts involved, especially the “caliper bolts” and “rotor retaining screws,” is essential to successfully removing the brake rotor.
In this detailed blog post, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the size of bolts to remove brake rotors, the tools needed, and a step-by-step guide to ensure the job is done safely and efficiently.
Contents
Brake Rotor and Its Components
Before diving into the exact bolt sizes, it’s important to understand the anatomy of the braking system and where the brake rotor fits into the picture.
- Brake Rotor (Disc Rotor): This is the metal disc that rotates along with the wheel. When the brake pads clamp down on the rotor, the friction created slows down or stops the vehicle.
- Brake Caliper: The caliper houses the brake pads and pushes them against the rotor when the brake pedal is pressed. It is mounted to the vehicle via a set of bolts, commonly referred to as caliper bolts.
- Rotor Retaining Screws: Some vehicles, especially those from Honda, Ford, and certain European makes, have rotor retaining screws that hold the rotor in place. These screws prevent the rotor from shifting before the wheel is installed.
- Lug Nuts: These are used to secure the wheels to the hub and, when removed, allow access to the brake rotor.
Common Bolt Sizes for Removing Brake Rotors
The exact bolt sizes vary by vehicle make and model. However, we’ll explore the typical bolt sizes for removing the brake rotor by focusing on two primary areas:
- Caliper Mounting Bolts: These bolts hold the brake caliper in place over the rotor.
- Rotor Retaining Screws: These small screws secure the rotor to the hub in some vehicles.
Caliper Mounting Bolts
Caliper mounting bolts are the bolts you need to remove to free the caliper from the rotor. Once the caliper is removed, the rotor can be accessed and removed.
Common caliper bolt sizes:
- 12mm or 13mm: These are typical for compact cars and smaller vehicles.
- 14mm or 15mm: Medium-sized vehicles and light-duty trucks often use these.
- 17mm or 19mm: Heavy-duty trucks and larger vehicles may require these larger bolts.
Tip: It’s a good idea to consult your vehicle’s manual for the exact size of the caliper bolts.
Rotor Retaining Screws
Rotor retaining screws are much smaller and are typically found in European and some Asian cars (like Honda and Toyota). These screws can be tricky to remove, especially if they have rusted over time. In most cases, you’ll need a hand impact driver to loosen them.
Common rotor retaining screw sizes:
- 6mm or 8mm: This is the standard size for most Honda, Toyota, and Nissan vehicles.
- T30 Torx or T40 Torx: Many European manufacturers, such as BMW and Volkswagen, use Torx screws to retain the rotors.
Pro Tip: When dealing with rusted or stripped screws, a manual impact driver is often necessary. Applying penetrating oil can also help loosen them.
Read more about Removing Stuck Brake Rotors.
Frequently Asked Questions
Here are some FAQs about what size bolt to remove brake rotor
What size bolts are needed to remove the caliper from the rotor?
The typical caliper bolts range from 12mm to 19mm, depending on the vehicle make and model. It’s essential to consult your vehicle’s manual for the exact size.
Do all vehicles have rotor retaining screws?
No, not all vehicles use rotor retaining screws. They are commonly found in European and some Asian models, such as Honda and Toyota.
How do I remove a stuck rotor?
If the rotor is stuck due to rust, use a hammer or rubber mallet to gently tap around the edges until it loosens. Penetrating oil can also help.
Can I reuse rotor retaining screws?
Yes, rotor retaining screws can usually be reused if they are not damaged. However, if they are stripped or rusted, it’s recommended to replace them.
Do I need to torque the caliper bolts after reinstalling the rotor?
Yes, it’s important to torque the caliper bolts to the manufacturer’s specifications. This ensures they are properly tightened and prevents future issues.
Conclusion
Removing a brake rotor is a manageable task when you know the right bolt sizes and tools to use. Whether you’re working on a compact car or a heavy-duty truck, ensuring that you have the correct caliper bolt size (typically 12mm to 19mm) and the right tools (such as an impact driver for rotor retaining screws) will make the job easier and safer. Following the step-by-step guide and taking necessary precautions will ensure a smooth and successful brake rotor removal and replacement.