How To: Grand Cherokee Rear Brakes - 2011-2021

Introduction

This tutorial provides a step-by-step guide on how to replace the rear brake pads and rotors on a 2011-2021 Jeep Grand Cherokee. Proper brake maintenance is essential for vehicle safety, and this guide will help you complete the task efficiently while ensuring your brakes perform optimally.

Step 1: Gather Your Tools and Materials

Before starting the brake replacement, ensure you have the following tools and materials on hand:

• New brake pads
• New rotors
• Brake cleaner
• Grease for caliper slide bolts
• Socket set
• Ratchet
• Torque wrench
• Screwdriver
• C-clamp or brake caliper tool
• Safety glasses
• Rags or paper towels

Step 2: Lift the Vehicle

To access the rear brakes, you need to lift the vehicle safely.

1. Park the Jeep on a flat surface.
2. Engage the parking brake.
3. Use a jack to lift the rear of the vehicle.
4. Secure it with jack stands for safety.

Step 3: Remove the Wheel

With the vehicle lifted and secured, you can now remove the rear wheel.

1. Use a socket to remove the lug nuts.
2. Take off the wheel and set it aside.

Step 4: Inspect the Brake Components

Before proceeding, inspect the existing brake components for wear and damage.

• Check the brake pads for thickness.
• Look for any corrosion on the caliper.
• Ensure the rotors are not excessively worn or damaged.

Step 5: Remove the Caliper

To access the brake pads and rotors, you need to remove the caliper.

1. Locate the caliper bolts and use the appropriate socket to remove them.
2. Carefully slide the caliper off the rotor.
3. Use a C-clamp or brake caliper tool to compress the caliper piston if necessary.
4. Hang the caliper using a bungee cord or similar to avoid stress on the brake line.

Step 6: Remove the Old Brake Pads and Rotor

With the caliper out of the way, you can now replace the pads and rotor.

1. Remove the old brake pads from the caliper bracket.
2. Use a socket to remove the rotor retaining screws if present.
3. Slide the old rotor off the wheel hub.

Step 7: Install the New Rotor

Now it's time to install the new rotor.

1. Place the new rotor onto the wheel hub.
2. Secure it with any retaining screws if applicable.

Step 8: Install New Brake Pads

Next, install the new brake pads into the caliper bracket.

1. Ensure they are positioned correctly in the bracket.
2. Apply grease to the caliper slide bolts if necessary.

Step 9: Reattach the Caliper

Once the new pads are in place, reattach the caliper.

1. Slide the caliper back over the new pads and rotor.
2. Tighten the caliper bolts securely using a torque wrench.

Step 10: Reinstall the Wheel

With the brakes reassembled, it's time to put the wheel back on.

1. Place the wheel onto the hub.
2. Hand-tighten the lug nuts.
3. Lower the vehicle and then fully tighten the lug nuts in a crisscross pattern.

Conclusion

You have successfully replaced the rear brake pads and rotors on your Jeep Grand Cherokee. Make sure to check the brakes periodically for wear and tear, and consider cleaning or greasing caliper components to ensure smooth operation. If you encounter any issues or are unsure about any step, consult a professional mechanic for assistance. Happy driving!