Tools You'll Need:
* Jack and jack stands: Essential for safely lifting the car. Never work under a car supported only by a jack.
* Wheel chocks: To prevent the car from rolling.
* Lug wrench: To remove the wheel.
* Socket wrench set: You'll need various sizes, likely including 12mm, 14mm, and possibly others depending on your specific car.
* C-clamp or brake caliper compressor tool: To compress the caliper piston. This is crucial.
* Penetrating oil (like PB Blaster): To help loosen any rusted bolts.
* Wrench for caliper bracket bolts (likely 14mm): To remove the caliper from the bracket
* Clean rags or shop towels: To clean up brake dust and fluid.
* Gloves: To protect your hands.
* New rear brake pads: Make sure you get the correct ones for your 1998 Mazda 626.
* Optional: Torque wrench: To tighten bolts to the manufacturer's specifications.
Steps:
1. Safety First: Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and chock the front wheels.
2. Lift and Secure: Use the jack to lift the rear of the car and securely place it on jack stands.
3. Remove the Wheel: Remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel.
4. Expose the Caliper: You should now see the brake caliper and rotor.
5. Compress the Caliper Piston: This is the most important and potentially tricky step. Use the C-clamp or caliper compressor tool to push the piston back into the caliper. You'll need to turn the piston as you push it in, to ensure it's properly retracted. Brake fluid will likely be displaced, so have some rags ready to catch any spills. If you don't compress the piston enough, you won't be able to get the new pads in.
6. Remove the Caliper: Remove the bolts holding the caliper to the bracket. These are usually on the backside of the caliper, and sometimes the top. Support the caliper with a wire or bungee cord to prevent the brake line from stretching or breaking.
7. Remove the Old Brake Pads: The old brake pads should now be easily accessible. They usually slide out from the caliper. Inspect the brake rotor for wear and scoring. If necessary, you'll likely need to replace the rotor as well.
8. Install the New Brake Pads: Carefully insert the new brake pads into the caliper.
9. Reinstall the Caliper: Reattach the caliper to the bracket using the bolts you removed earlier.
10. Reinstall the Wheel: Carefully reinstall the wheel and tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern.
11. Lower the Car: Slowly lower the car from the jack stands.
12. Final Tightening: Tighten the lug nuts completely.
13. Pump the Brakes: Get into the car, firmly press the brake pedal several times to ensure the pads are making proper contact with the rotor.
14. Test Drive: Take a short test drive to confirm that the brakes are working correctly. If you feel anything unusual, stop and re-check your work.
Important Considerations:
* Brake Fluid: If you're spilling brake fluid, you may need to check and top off the brake fluid reservoir.
* Rotor Condition: Inspect the rotors for excessive wear or damage. If they are severely scored or worn below the minimum thickness, they need to be replaced.
* Parking Brake: Some 626 models have a separate parking brake mechanism that may require adjustment after brake pad replacement. Consult a repair manual for specifics.
Disclaimer: This is a general guide. Specific procedures might vary slightly depending on your car's exact model and condition. Consult a repair manual specific to your 1998 Mazda 626 for detailed instructions and torque specifications. Failing to follow proper procedures can lead to brake failure, which can be dangerous. If you are unsure about any step, seek professional help.
