Is it necessary to replace the front axle dust cap?

[Cruzader66]

I'm planning on replacing the front rotors and pads, and wondering if it's really necessary to replace the dust cap (service manual calls it a hub cap). Has anyone reused theirs?

[ARKQX33V6]

Yes and no
Yes if you butcher that cap shape or damage the O ring, if you squeeze it with pliers

No if you use finesse and a sharp tool like a chisel and form it to between the cap and main body and gently push in to push the cap out very small amounts and go around the cap until it releases completely, the wipe clean and re-oil.

It's all in the way you go at it.

[fueler]

nah... my Q has 200k miles, went through three sets of brake rotors and I always re-used the original dust caps up until I installed warn hubs which eliminates the need for dust caps.

[Cruzader66]

Sounds good . . . I guess nice and easy is the key.

[smancer]

I changed my rotors and pads just a few weeks ago. It was my first time ever to do a brake job, I didn't replace the dust cap or the O-rings on my drive flange. Just tap it out gently and evenly on different spots with a chisel or a screwdriver and you should have no problems.

[DIYpathy]

Yes and no
Yes if you butcher that cap shape or damage the O ring, if you squeeze it with pliers

No if you use finesse and a sharp tool like a chisel and form it to between the cap and main body and gently push in to push the cap out very small amounts and go around the cap until it releases completely, the wipe clean and re-oil.

It's all in the way you go at it.

Thanks. I am having a weird episode of digging a deeper hole with every step. Here is what I mean. I had all the tools and tried to take the dust cap off and I JUST CANT do it. I tried little by little and then after couple extended hours of trying, impatience wore in and rough handled the cap and it still wont come off. the cap turns lose but it just wont come out. I have the chisel and tried what you suggested, the cap seems pretty lose and turns 360 even by hand and wiggles very loose but the darn thing will not come off. Do you have any suggestions? Thanks.