How to Change Your Brake Pads

 

Very few things on your car will be as important to you as a properly working braking system. Effective brake pads are a crucial part of this system. Once you determine that your brake pads are ready to be replaced, this process is something you can do at home with the right tools and a free weekend afternoon.

First, you have to start with removing the old brake pads. It’s a good idea to place blocks behind the wheels to help keep the car from rolling while you are working on it. You’ll want to you use car’s jack to lift it up and remove the tire and wheel so that the brake rotor and caliper are exposed. Using a wrench, loosen the bolts holding the caliper in place and lift it off the brake rotor. Do not allow the caliper to be left hanging by the brake line, as it will still be attached at this point. Use a piece of hanger wire to secure the caliper. Ensure the brake line is not pinched, kinked, or tightly wrapped in any way.

Turn the caliper over and you’ll be able to see the brake pads. Take off whatever hardware is holding the pads in place and slide them out from the caliper. Before you install the new brake pads, you will need to manually retract the caliper piston.

Using a C-clamp, place the end with the screw on it against the piston. The pressure on the piston will increase as you turn the screw. When you have enough room to do so, slip the new brake pads into place. Replace the hardware that kept the old pads in place.

Next, move the caliper back into its resting place over the rotor and tighten the bolts to keep it from moving. Give the brake pedal a few pumps to make sure everything feels right to you. Put your wheel back on, tighten the nuts, and lower the car back to the ground with your jack. It’s as simple as that.