I. Determine Brake Type (Drum or Disc):
* Drum Brakes: Older or base models likely have rear drum brakes. These are typically less expensive to replace but more labor-intensive to access and work on.
* Disc Brakes: Higher trim levels likely have rear disc brakes. These are generally easier to access and replace but may involve more specialized tools.
II. Rear Drum Brake Replacement (if applicable):
1. Safety First: Engage the parking brake firmly. Use jack stands to securely lift the rear of the vehicle. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
2. Remove Wheel: Remove the wheel using a lug wrench.
3. Remove Drum: You might need to gently tap the drum with a rubber mallet to loosen it. Sometimes it's seized due to rust. Brake cleaner can help.
4. Inspect Components: Inspect the brake shoes, springs, wheel cylinders, and adjusting mechanism for wear or damage.
5. Remove Brake Shoes: Carefully remove the brake shoes, paying attention to how the springs and other components are arranged. Take photos or draw a diagram if needed.
6. Replace Components: Install new brake shoes, springs, and any other worn components. Ensure everything is properly aligned and seated.
7. Wheel Cylinder Inspection (crucial): Inspect the wheel cylinder for leaks. If leaking, replace it. Leaking wheel cylinders are a common cause of rear drum brake failure.
8. Reinstall Drum: Carefully reinstall the drum.
9. Adjust Brakes: Adjust the brakes using the adjuster mechanism to ensure proper clearance.
10. Reassemble: Reinstall the wheel and tighten the lug nuts to the manufacturer's specified torque.
11. Test Brakes: Test the brakes thoroughly in a safe area, ensuring they engage properly and evenly.
III. Rear Disc Brake Replacement (if applicable):
1. Safety First: Same as above – parking brake, jack stands, etc.
2. Remove Wheel: Remove the wheel using a lug wrench.
3. Remove Caliper: Remove the caliper using a wrench or socket (you might need to compress the caliper piston using a C-clamp and a block of wood to create space).
4. Remove Brake Pads: Remove the old brake pads.
5. Inspect Rotors: Inspect the brake rotors for excessive wear or damage. If necessary, replace the rotors.
6. Replace Brake Pads: Install new brake pads.
7. Reinstall Caliper: Reinstall the caliper, ensuring the caliper slides smoothly in its brackets.
8. Reassemble: Reinstall the wheel and tighten the lug nuts to the manufacturer's specified torque.
9. Test Brakes: Test the brakes thoroughly in a safe area.
Tools You'll Likely Need:
* Jack and jack stands
* Lug wrench
* Socket wrench set
* Wrenches (various sizes)
* C-clamp (for disc brakes)
* Brake cleaner
* Rubber mallet (for drum brakes)
* New brake pads/shoes/rotors/wheel cylinders (as needed)
* Possibly a caliper piston compressor tool (for disc brakes)
* Torque wrench
Important Considerations:
* Bleeding the Brakes: After working on any part of the braking system, you may need to bleed the brakes to remove air from the lines. This is an important safety step.
* Torque Specifications: Always refer to your owner's manual for the correct torque specifications for your vehicle. Over-tightening or under-tightening can damage components.
* Professional Assistance: If you are uncomfortable performing this repair yourself, it's best to take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic. Brake failure can be dangerous.
This information is for general guidance only. Always consult your owner's manual and seek professional help if needed. Remember safety is paramount when working on your vehicle's brakes.
