Brake pads are an important part of your car’s braking system because they create friction that slows and stops your car. Brake pads wear out over time and need to be replaced to drive your car safely. Fortunately, replacing brake pads is a simple job that you can do yourself if you have the right tools and plan. By the time you read this article, the steps will be clear to you.
1. Gather Your Tools and Materials
Before you start, make sure you have all the necessary tools and ingredients:
- Jacks and jacks can safely lift and tip your car.
- To remove the wheel you will need a wheel nut wrench or tire lever.
- To retract the caliper piston, you will need a C-clamp or caliper piston tool.
- Wrench and socket wrench set. Depending on your car you may need a 14mm or 17mm connection.
- Brand new brake pads.
- Brake cleaner for cleaning brake parts.
- Wire brush for removing dirt and rust.
- A torque wrench ensures that the job is done properly.
2. Prepare your car
Park your vehicle on a level, stable surface and set the parking brake. If you have wheel chocks, place them behind the wheels to make the cab more stable. Open the hood and see how much brake fluid is in the master cylinder tank. If it is full, you may need to drain some of the fluid so that it doesn’t escape when you squeeze the caliper piston later.
3. Remove the wheels
With the car still on the ground, loosen the ring nuts on the wheels. Don’t take them off completely. First, use a jack to lift the side of the car where the brake pads are located and place them on jack stands to hold them in place. Once the car is raised, remove the wheel and lug nuts.
4. Remove the brake caliper
Locate the caliper that presses the brake pads against the wheel. Usually, two nuts on the back hold it in place. After removing these bolts, carefully lift the caliper off the rotor. Be careful not to damage the brake lines connected to the calipers. The brake calipers can be hung from the frame or suspension with a hanger or piece of wire so that they don’t get in the way.
5. Remove the old brake pads
The brake pads are easy to put on and take off when the calipers are closed. They can move or cut off the caliper bracket. Make sure the brake calipers are not worn or damaged. Pay special attention to the caliper pistons and rubber seals. If these parts become damaged, more repairs may be required than just replacing the brake pads.
6. Prepare and install new brake pads
Before installing new brake pads, clean the brake mountings with a wire brush to remove rust or other debris. Apply a dab of brake grease to the back of the new brake pad where it meets the caliper. This prevents them from screaming. If your brake pads come with new clips, place the new clips on the caliper clamps, not the old clips. Slide the new pad in and lay it down.
7. Apply pressure to the caliper piston
You will need to pull back the caliper piston before you can place the caliper on the new, thicker brake pads. Use a C-clamp or caliper piston tool to press the piston back into the caliper housing. Then place the old brake pad over the piston. Move slowly so as not to damage anything.
8. Reinstall the Caliper and Wheel
With the piston pressed, you can place the caliper back on the new brake pads and rotors. Replace the brake caliper bolts and tighten them to the manufacturer’s recommended torque. Replace the wheel and tighten the lug nuts by hand. Lift the car off the jack stands and use a torque wrench to tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern. This ensures that they tighten at the same rate.
9. Check your work
Before you start driving regularly, start the car and press the brake pedal a few times to extend the caliper pistons and press the new brake pads against the brake rotors. This restores braking pressure to the system. After topping up, check the amount of brake fluid again.
Conclusion
Replacing your car’s brake pads is a fun DIY project that can make your car safer and better to drive. Always exercise caution and safety, especially when lifting and holding the vehicle. The work becomes easier and faster the more you do it. This will save you time and money while allowing you to keep your car’s vital systems in good working order.
FAQs
1. How often should brake pads be replaced?
Most brake pads need to be replaced every 30,000 to 70,000 miles, but this can change depending on how you drive, the weather, and the type of material the brake pads are made of. Listen for noises or pay attention to the feel of the brake pedal, and if you notice a decrease in performance, replace the brake pads as soon as possible.
2. How do I determine whether the brake pads need to be replaced?
Squealing or screeching when braking, a louder grinding or grunting sound of metal, longer stopping distances, or a brake pad warning light (if your car has one) are all common symptoms. If the brake pedal feels “spongy” or you hear a loud noise when you press it, you should have your brakes checked.
3. Can I replace the brake pads myself?
Yes, many car owners can replace their brake pads if they have the right tools and know how to perform a simple repair. If you’re not sure how to do this yourself, or if your braking system contains more complex components (such as an automatic parking brake), you may want to seek professional help.
4. Does the car need to be repaired when replacing the brake pads?
When you replace your brake pads, you should also inspect and, if necessary, repair other parts of your braking system. Check whether the brake discs are in good condition. They should be smooth and without deep holes. If the rotor is severely worn or damaged, it may also need to be replaced or reinstalled. Also, check the quantity and quality of the brake fluid. Add more liquid or replace the liquid if necessary.
5. Do I need to bleed the brakes when I replace the brake pads?
Most of the time, you don’t have to go through the hassle of just replacing your brake pads. The only time you may need to do this is if you accidentally let air into the system, or if you have engaged the hydraulic system for other reasons, such as replacing a brake line. However, if your brake pedal feels soft after replacing the brake pads, you may need to bleed the brakes to remove the air.
6. What should I do with my old brake pads?
It is important to dispose of your old brake pads properly. Many auto parts stores and recycling centers recycle used brake parts. Do not throw them away, as they may contain substances that are harmful to the environment.
