Replacing rotors on your Saturn is a regular part of your vehicle maintenance. Rotors need to be inspected for wear during normal brake pad service. One thing to keep in mind about rotors, however, is that they need to be replaced much less frequently than your brake pads. With proper tools, this job can be completed right in your home garage.
Benefits
Rotors that are worn or scored tend to wear down your brake pads very quickly, which can ultimately lead to brake failure. Changing your rotors will improve your brake performance and will slow the pace of overall brake wear.
Time Frame
With the help of a friend, you can expect to complete rotor replacements in about an hour.
Cost
As of 2010, new rotors range in price from $25 to $40 per wheel. Shop around.
Rotor Replacement
Park your Saturn on level ground and apply the parking brake. Remove lug nuts from the wheels that need rotor replacement. Lift the car with a jack and support with a jack stand. Remove caliper bolts then remove the caliper mounting bracket, but do not let the caliper hang by the brake line. Slide out the brake pads. Remove the caliper mounting bracket bolts. Pull the bracket from the rotor and set it aside. Remove the worn rotor from the wheel hub and replace with the new rotor. Replace the caliper mounting bracket on the rotor and screw the bracket bolts back in. Replace or put in existing brake pads, making sure to apply brake grease to the backs of the pads. Put a C-clamp over the pistons to force them back into the caliper. Place the caliper over the brake pads and screw in the caliper bolts. Replace the wheels and lug nuts.
