Why am I having trouble getting the rotor off a Ford Focus ZXW?

Answer by  JohnHolmes (2660)

You may be having trouble because of rusting or damage to the rotor. Try hitting the sides of the rotor with a hammer to break away loose rust. You can also use a pry bar or tire iron to get extra leverage in the little groves on the side of the rotor.

Answer by  Amber40 (24961)

It is not uncommon for the rotors to seize to the hub. Make sure that there are no bolts still holding it on though. Apply a good amount of penetrating oil around the inside of the rotor and in the studs. Then try tapping them loose with a hammer.

Answer by  Amber40 (24961)

Assuming that you have removed and bolt holding the rotor to the hub then it is probably just rusted on. Try tapping around the edge on the backside with a wooden block and hammer to break it loose. You can also apply some penetrating oil in the lug holes.

Answer by  Jaggers (1018)

This Ford Focus has obviously been neglected because this model gives up it's rotors easily. The only assumption to be made is that the rotors have been allowed to rust weld to the spindles. If this is the case soak the rotors in a high grade rust remover for 6 months and try again.

Answer by  JD17 (424)

check to make sure that where you put in break fluid the cap is off. If it is don't be scared to hit it, your breaks are stuck on.

Answer by  Amber40 (24961)

Rotors can seize to the hub due to corrosion. Try sprayng penetrating oil in the lug openings and tapping the rotor loose. Be sure to remove any oil before reassemble.

Answer by  Amber40 (24961)

First make sure that there are not bolts holding the rotor to the hub at the center. Then try and spray some penetrating lube on the backside and around the wheel studs. Then tap the rotor to loosen it.

Answer by  zacanger (434)

The rotor could be rusted on or warped. It depends on how long it has been since you last changed the brakes. I have had, in the past, to pry off rotors with a crowbar.

Answer by  loveulouis (176)

Did you try rust remover, or hitting it with a large hammar, sometimes they have clips on the lug nuts to hold it on. did you take off caliber?

Answer by  mike1357 (126)

The brake rotor could be rusted on, or perhaps you need to remove the big nut holding the hub in place. There could also be a pin in this nut.