How to Replace Rear Brakes 2011-2016 Hyundai Elantra

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through the process of replacing rear brake pads and rotors on a 2011-2016 Hyundai Elantra. Regular maintenance of your brakes is crucial for safe driving, especially if you're experiencing symptoms like squealing, grinding, or wheel vibrations. By following these steps, you can ensure your brakes operate effectively and prolong their lifespan.

Step 1: Prepare the Vehicle

• Safely raise and support the rear of your vehicle using a floor jack and jack stands.
• Remove the five 21mm lug nuts from the rear wheel and take off the wheel.

Step 2: Apply Penetrating Oil

• Spray the rotor and surrounding areas with rust penetrant to loosen any stuck screws.
• Identify the two Phillips head screws securing the rotor to the hub.

Step 3: Disconnect the Emergency Brake Cable

• Locate the emergency brake cable mounted to the rear caliper.
• Use a 12mm socket to remove the bolt securing the cable, providing enough slack for the next steps.

Step 4: Remove the Brake Caliper

• Start by unscrewing the top caliper slider bolt using a 14mm socket.
• Remove the two caliper bracket bolts (also 14mm) located below.
• Once loose, leave one bolt partially threaded to support the caliper while you finish the removal.
• Carefully slide the caliper off the rotor. Use a bungee cord to hang the caliper without stressing the brake line.

Step 5: Remove the Brake Rotor

• Secure one of the lug nuts onto the rotor with a few threads to prevent it from falling.
• Use an impact driver with a Phillips bit to unscrew the two screws holding the rotor in place.
• Gently tap the rotor with a hammer on the braking surface to loosen it from the hub. Remove the rotor.

Step 6: Inspect and Clean Components

• Inspect the backing plate and hub for damage or rust.
• Clean the mating surface of the hub using a wire brush or sanding disc to remove debris and rust.

Step 7: Prepare the Caliper Piston

• Use a caliper piston rewind tool to press and twist the piston back into the caliper.
• Ensure the rubber boot around the piston is not damaged during this process.

Step 8: Reassemble with New Parts

• Install the new rotor onto the hub, ensuring the screw holes align with the mounting studs.
• Secure the rotor with the screws and ensure they are snug.
• Apply copper anti-seize to the hub mating surface before placing the new rotor.

Step 9: Install New Brake Pads

• Fit the new brake pads into the caliper bracket, ensuring the wear indicators are facing down.
• Reattach the caliper over the pads and align it with the slider pins.
• Tighten the caliper bracket bolts to the specified torque (50 foot-pounds for bracket bolts, 23 foot-pounds for the caliper bolt).

Step 10: Reattach the Emergency Brake Cable

• Re-secure the emergency brake cable using the 12mm bolt removed earlier.

Step 11: Reinstall the Wheel

• Place the wheel back onto the hub and hand-tighten the 21mm lug nuts.
• Lower the vehicle to the ground and torque the lug nuts to 80 foot-pounds.

Conclusion

You have successfully replaced the rear brake pads and rotors on your Hyundai Elantra. Repeat these steps on the other side of the vehicle. After replacing, pump the brake pedal until it feels firm, check the brake fluid level in the master cylinder, and take your vehicle for a test drive to ensure everything is functioning correctly. Regular brake maintenance enhances safety and driving performance.