Tools and materials needed:
-Lug wrench
-Car jack
-Jack stands
-Socket set
-Ratchet
-Brake caliper wrench
-C-Clamp or brake caliper wind back tool
-Brake fluid
- New brake pads
-Brake rotors (if needed)
Step 1: Prepare the vehicle
-Park your Jeep Commander on a flat surface.
-Engage the parking brake.
-Chock the wheels that will not be raised to prevent the vehicle from rolling.
-Loosen the lug nuts on the wheels where the brakes will be replaced, but do not remove them completely.
Step 2: Raise the vehicle
-Jack up the vehicle using a car jack. Place the jack under the designated lifting point, which is usually located near the wheels.
-Place jack stands under the frame of the Jeep Commander to support the vehicle securely.
-Remove the lug nuts and take off the wheels.
Step 3: Remove the brake caliper
-Locate the brake caliper, which is the part that houses the brake pads. It is usually mounted over the brake rotor.
-Remove the bolts holding the brake caliper in place using the socket set and ratchet.
-Carefully lift off the brake caliper without straining the brake line. It may be necessary to use a pry bar or screwdriver to gently pry the caliper off.
-Hang the brake caliper out of the way with a piece of wire. Avoid letting it hang from the brake line.
Step 4: Inspect the brake rotor
-Examine the brake rotor for wear, scoring, or damage. If the rotor is below the specified minimum thickness or shows signs of excessive wear, it will need to be replaced.
Step 5: Remove the old brake pads
-Use a C-clamp or brake caliper wind back tool to compress the piston of the brake caliper.
-Slide out the old brake pads from their slots in the caliper. Take note of how they are positioned for reinstallation.
Step 6: Clean the brake caliper
-Clean the brake caliper and surrounding area to remove any dirt, debris, or old brake fluid.
Step 7: Install the new brake pads
-Place the new brake pads into the caliper, aligning them correctly with the slots.
-Ensure the pads are seated properly and that they move freely in the caliper.
Step 8: Reinstall the brake caliper
-Carefully lift the brake caliper and reinstall it over the brake rotor.
-Secure the caliper with the bolts you removed earlier.
Step 9: Repeat the process for the other wheels
-Follow steps 3 through 8 to replace the brake pads and rotors on the other wheels that require service.
Step 10: Test the brakes
-Once the new brake pads are installed, test the brakes by gently applying pressure on the brake pedal. The pedal should feel firm and the vehicle should stop smoothly without pulling to one side.
Step 11: Refill the brake fluid
-Check the brake fluid level in the master cylinder reservoir and top it up if necessary using the recommended brake fluid.
Step 12: Lower the vehicle
-Carefully lower the vehicle off the jack stands and remove the jack.
Step 13: Test drive
-Take the vehicle for a test drive to ensure the brakes are functioning properly before returning to normal operation.
Note:
Replacing brake rotors may require additional steps such as removing the caliper bracket and hub assembly, depending on the specific vehicle model. It is essential to refer to the manufacturer's service manual for detailed instructions and specifications related to your specific 2007 Jeep Commander.
