Step 1: Prepare your vehicle and equipment
1. Park your vehicle on a level surface and apply the parking brake.
2. Engage the wheel or chock the wheels to prevent the car from rolling.
3. Gather your tools and equipment, which may include:
- Jack and jack stands: Always engage the parking brake before jacking up your vehicle.
- Lug wrench:
- Socket set with 12 mm and 14 mm sockets
- Flat-head screwdriver
- Pliers:
- Brake cleaner:
- New brake pads:
- Brake caliper grease.
Step 2: Remove the wheels
1. Use the lug wrench to loosen the lug nuts on the affected wheels. Do not remove the lug nuts completely at this point.
2. Raise your vehicle with the jack until the tire is off the ground.
3. Remove the lug nuts completely and take off the wheel.
Step 3: Remove the old brake pads
1. Locate the brake caliper. It is the device attached to the wheel hub that holds the brake pads.
2. Remove the caliper bolts using the appropriate wrench or socket.
3. Carefully lift off the caliper and hang it with a piece of wire or string to prevent it from damaging the brake line.
4. Remove the old brake pads from the caliper. They are usually held in place by metal clips or pins.
Step 4: Inspect the brake components
1. Check the brake rotors (the discs attached to the wheel hub) for any signs of uneven wear, excessive grooves, or damage.
2. Check the brake caliper piston for any leaks or damage.
Step 5: Install the new brake pads
1. Apply brake grease to the back of the new brake pads where they make contact with the caliper piston.
2. Place the new brake pads into the caliper. Make sure they are seated correctly and aligned with the rotor.
3. Reattach the caliper and reinstall the bolts or pins.
Step 6: Reinstall the wheels
1. Place the wheel back on the hub and reinstall the lug nuts. Tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern to evenly distribute the pressure.
2. Lower the vehicle using the jack.
- Check the brake fluid level: Changing brake pads can affect the brake fluid level, so check the reservoir and top it off as needed.
- Test the brakes: Before driving, gently apply the brakes to check for proper operation and to seat the new pads.
Remember, performing brake work requires proper safety precautions, so always refer to your vehicle's service manual for specific instructions and safety guidelines. If you're not comfortable performing this task, it's best to consult a qualified mechanic or technician.
