- New disc brake pads
- C-clamp or brake caliper tool
- Ratchet and socket set
- Flathead screwdriver
- Wire brush
- Brake cleaner
- Safety glasses
Step 2: Park your car in a safe location
Step 3: Prepare the vehicle
- Engage the parking brake
- Loosen the lug nuts on the wheel that needs to be removed, but do not remove them completely
Step 4: Remove the wheel
- Use the jack and lug wrench to remove the lug nuts and wheel.
Step 5: Access the brake caliper
- Locate the brake caliper, it is usually attached to the steering knuckle and holds the brake pads in place.
Step 6: Compress the brake caliper
- Brake calipers use hydraulic pressure to stop the vehicle, and they must be compressed before the brake pads can be replaced.
- Use a C-clamp or special brake caliper tool to compress the caliper.
Step 7: Remove the old brake pads
- Slide the old brake pads out of the caliper.
Step 8: Install the new brake pads
- Position the new brake pads into the caliper.
Step 9: Release the brake caliper
- Use the C-clamp or caliper tool to release the caliper.
Step 10: Install the wheel and lug nuts
- Place the wheel back on the hub and install the lug nuts.
- Tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern to evenly distribute the pressure, then lower the vehicle .
- Tighten the lug nuts to the manufacturer specifications, which can be found in the owner's manual.
Step 11: Pump the brakes
- After the new pads are installed, you need to pump the brake pedal several times to ensure that the pads are properly seated.
- Press the brake pedal slowly and firmly until you feel resistance.
- Pumping the brakes creates hydraulic pressure that pushes the brake pads against the rotors.
- If the brake pedal feels spongy, there may be air in the brake lines.
- This is a common problem after new brake pads are installed, and can be easily repaired.
Step 12: Final checks
- Before driving, check that:
- The caliper is properly seated and tight
- The brake pedal feels firm and brakes are stopping the vehicle adequately.
- There is no air in the brake lines.
- Your car is in safe condition to drive.
