This is a general guide, and specific steps may vary slightly depending on your exact E320 model. Always consult a repair manual specific to your vehicle for precise instructions and torque specifications.
Tools You'll Need:
* Jack and jack stands: Essential for safety. Never work under a car supported only by a jack.
* Wheel chocks: To prevent the car from rolling.
* Lug wrench: To remove the wheels.
* Socket set and wrenches: Various sizes will be needed, including those for caliper bolts, potentially a 13mm and 18mm. Check your repair manual.
* C-clamp or brake caliper compression tool: To compress the caliper piston.
* Brake cleaner: To clean brake components.
* New rear brake pads: Ensure you get the correct pads for your E320.
* Penetrating oil (like PB Blaster): To help loosen any stuck bolts.
* Torque wrench: Crucial for tightening bolts to the correct specification.
* Gloves: To protect your hands.
* Safety glasses: To protect your eyes.
* Repair manual: A Mercedes-Benz E320 repair manual specific to the year is highly recommended.
General Steps (Consult your repair manual for precise details):
1. Safety First: Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and use wheel chocks.
2. Jack Up and Secure: Jack up the rear of the car and securely place it on jack stands.
3. Remove Wheel: Remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel.
4. Locate the Caliper: Identify the brake caliper assembly.
5. Remove Caliper Bolts: Use the appropriate socket to remove the bolts holding the caliper to the caliper bracket. These may be difficult to loosen due to rust. Penetrating oil may help.
6. Support the Caliper: Carefully support the caliper; it's heavy and contains brake fluid. You might need to use a bungee cord or wire to keep it hanging from something nearby, preventing strain on the brake hose.
7. Compress the Caliper Piston: Use a C-clamp or brake caliper compression tool to slowly push the piston back into the caliper. This creates space for the new, thicker brake pads. Be careful not to damage the piston seal.
8. Remove Old Brake Pads: The old pads should now be easily removable.
9. Clean Caliper and Bracket: Clean the caliper bracket and the caliper piston area with brake cleaner.
10. Install New Brake Pads: Install the new brake pads into the caliper bracket, ensuring they slide freely.
11. Reinstall Caliper: Carefully reinstall the caliper onto the bracket, ensuring it's properly aligned. Tighten the bolts to the specified torque.
12. Reinstall Wheel: Replace the wheel and tighten the lug nuts to the specified torque.
13. Repeat for Other Side: Repeat steps 3-12 for the other rear wheel.
14. Lower the Vehicle: Carefully lower the vehicle from the jack stands.
15. Check for Leaks: Visually inspect for any brake fluid leaks.
16. Pump Brakes: Pump the brake pedal several times to restore brake pressure.
17. Test Drive: Test drive the vehicle carefully, paying close attention to brake performance. If anything feels off, stop immediately and have it inspected by a mechanic.
Important Considerations:
* Bleeding Brakes: In some cases, you may need to bleed the brakes after replacing the pads, particularly if the brake fluid level drops significantly. Consult your repair manual.
* Brake Fluid: If you spill brake fluid, clean it up immediately as it can damage paint.
* Caliper Slides: Check that the caliper slides move freely. If they're sticking, you may need to clean and lubricate them.
* Rotor Condition: Inspect the brake rotors for wear and tear. They may need to be resurfaced or replaced.
Again, this is a general guide. A repair manual specific to your 1996 Mercedes-Benz E320 is absolutely crucial for safe and successful brake pad replacement. If you are not comfortable with any of these steps, take your car to a qualified mechanic. Brake safety is not something to take lightly.
