You can also replace the pads one at a time onto the existing rotors if they aren't chewed up too bad. The new pads will bed in to the existing rotors. For extra points, get a set of EBC pads & slotted rotors, you'll be amazed at the difference. New rotors are a lot less hassle than getting the old ones turned by some flunky. But unless they are chewed, they'll work OK as is, the new pads will bed in quickly.
1) Use your
floor jack to lift one corner at the designated lift point. You can use a strategically located jack stand with a block of cushioning wood on it for life insurance. 2 ton jack stands are cheap & readily available at the auto supply or Wally World, as are 3 ton floor jacks. Your life is worth it.
2) Loosen the retaining bolts, pull off the puck holder & lift away from the disc. Don't tweak the brake lines.
3) Take 2 biggo screwdrivers and prise the pads apart maybe 1/4". IF the brake fluid reservoir is already full, you may need to remove some fluid before it spills over. The puck holders generally "float" on sliding pins. These HAVE to slide relatively easily. If they don't, remove them from the puck, clean them and their bore holes, re-grease with
Hi-Temp brake grease, install back into puck & check for smooth operation. Stuck pins screw up the brake operation & eat pads.
4) Install new pads.
4a) remove & install new disc. Some are retained by a separate conical screw thru the disc.
5) Replace puck holder assembly onto disc. You may need to pry them apart a bit further.
Retorque securing bolts properly.
6) Pump brakes a few times. this forces the new pads down onto the disc surface. It must feel at least as solid as it did before you started.
7) If all goes well,
take out the "insurance" jack stand, then lower the car with the floor jack, freeing it up for the next brake. Move on to the next corner.
8 ) When all done, check the brake fluid reservoir level. Carefully take your car around the block, testing the brakes 10 - 20 times to start the bedding-in process. Pick a low traffic lane. If all seems well, you're done.