So, I haven't seen a thread dedicated to this (though the topic is in some other threads).

I changed my rotors today and, like many before me, struggled to get the screws out of the front rotors. My impact wrench couldn't get them, I broke a bit in it, and then stripped them out using a breaker bar. SO, I had to drill them out - wasn't a big deal.

The question is - do I need to go get a set of new ones from the dealer and put them back in? I can't really think of what purpose they serve as they don't exist on the rears and the 5 lugs are holding the rotor in place. Can anyone please tell me if they're necessary and if not, then why they're on the car?

Just need to know if I should go buy them and put them in.

 

they are there to hold the rotor on when you take your wheels off. you are right the lugnuts will hold it in place. might be a good idea to get new ones anyways. wouldn't be too fun to take your wheel off and see your rotor crash to the ground and get damaged.

 

How would the rotors fall to the ground when the brake calipers are holding it in place? DUH!

 

Also, the screws are there for manufacturing purposes, you do not need them.

 

Correct.
And if you have trouble getting those screws out, give it a little heat and it'll easily turn.

 

Or if you have trouble getting the screws out use a Craftsman Impact Driver.

http://www.sears.com/shc/s/p_10153_12605_00947641000P

 

Bottom line: you don't need to buy new ones. I don't use mine since they are PITA.

 

A hand impact driver will do the trick. More control (less chance of breakage) than a powered driver.

WD-40 or similar penetrating fluid prior will help as well.

http://www.harborfreight.com/cpi/cta...emnumber=93481

 

That'll work too. I first used that on my rotors.
But honestly, I was able to unscrew the bolts with a basic screwdriver after applying heat on another local's car.
It was easier than hitting it with an impact driver... but we both had our cars out during a few winters so our bolts were probably worse that others.

 

yeah a little wd-40 and impact....but yo don't need them the caliper holds the rotor on when u take the wheel off

 

yes wd-40 and impact driver should take care of it and u don't need to replace...just basically there for the factory so when they are assembling the car they don't have to worry aqbout the rotors coming off....