1. Preparation is Key:
* Safety First: Always work in a well-ventilated area. Wear safety glasses and gloves. Secure the vehicle with parking brake firmly engaged and wheel chocks in place.
* Gather Tools: You'll need jack stands (never work under a car supported only by a jack), a jack, lug wrench, socket set (metric), wrenches, brake caliper compression tool (essential!), possibly a wire brush, penetrating lubricant (PB Blaster or similar), and a clean rag.
* Consult a Repair Manual: A factory service manual for your specific year and model will be invaluable. It will show detailed diagrams and torque specifications.
2. Accessing the Brakes:
* Lift and Support: Safely lift the rear of the car and securely place it on jack stands.
* Remove Wheel: Remove the lug nuts and carefully remove the wheel.
3. Dealing with Stuck Brake Pads:
This is the crucial part. If the pads are stuck, brute force will likely damage components.
* Penetrating Lubricant: Generously apply penetrating lubricant to the back of the brake pads and around the caliper pins. Let it soak for at least 30 minutes, or even overnight for stubborn cases.
* Calipers: Try to gently wiggle the calipers. Sometimes they are simply stuck due to corrosion on the pins. If they move freely, proceed to the next steps.
* Calipers Pins: If the calipers are stuck, you'll need to remove the caliper mounting bolts. Once removed, you might need to tap the pins gently with a hammer and punch to free them. Clean the pins thoroughly and lubricate them with caliper pin grease (NOT regular grease).
* Brake Caliper Piston Compression: This is where the compression tool is vital. Do not attempt to push the piston back in without one. Using the tool, carefully compress the piston to create enough space to remove the old pads. Be careful not to damage the piston seal or boot.
* Stuck Pads: If the pads themselves are still seized to the caliper, you may need to use a small pry bar or a flathead screwdriver (carefully!) to gently separate them. Again, avoid damaging the caliper. A wire brush can help clean off corrosion on the backing plates of the pads.
4. Replacing the Pads:
* Remove Old Pads: Once you have sufficient clearance, carefully remove the old brake pads. Inspect the caliper and the caliper slides for damage or wear.
* Install New Pads: Install the new brake pads, ensuring they are properly seated.
* Reassemble: Reinstall the calipers, making sure the pins slide freely and are properly lubricated. Tighten the caliper mounting bolts to the manufacturer's specified torque. Replace the wheel.
* Repeat for Other Side: Repeat the process for the other rear wheel.
5. Bleed the Brakes (Important):
After replacing the pads, you might need to bleed the brakes to remove any air that may have entered the system during the process. This is usually done by opening the bleeder valve on the caliper while someone pumps the brake pedal. Consult your repair manual for the correct bleeding procedure.
If you're uncomfortable with any of these steps, take your car to a qualified mechanic. Brake work is critical for safety, and improper repair can have serious consequences. Trying to force parts can easily lead to damage far exceeding the cost of professional help.
