- Jack
- Jack stands
- Lug wrench
- Socket wrench
- Screwdriver
- Pliers
- Brake grease
- New brake pads
Instructions
1. Park your car on a level surface and engage the parking brake. If necessary, refer to your owners manual to determine the best parking brake setting for working on the rear brakes.
2. Locate the lug nuts that hold the rear wheels in place. Loosen the lug nuts, but do not remove them.
3. Jack up your car until the rear wheels are off the ground. Place jack stands under the frame of your car, near the front and rear wheels, to support the weight of the vehicle.
3. Remove the lug nuts and take off the rear wheels.
4. Locate the brake caliper. It is the large metal housing that contains the brake pads and piston.
5. Use a screwdriver to pry open the dust boot on the caliper. This will expose the brake pads.
6. Use a socket wrench to loosen the bolts that hold the caliper in place.
7. Remove the caliper and brake pads.
8. Clean the caliper and brake rotor.
9. Apply a thin layer of brake grease to the back of the new brake pads.
10. Insert the new brake pads into the caliper.
11. Reinstall the caliper and bolts.
12. Tighten the lug nuts and reinstall the rear wheels.
13. Lower the car and remove the jack stands.
14. Test the brakes by applying pressure to the brake pedal. The pedal should feel firm and the car should stop smoothly.
Tips
- If the brake pads are worn unevenly, it is important to inspect the brake rotor for damage. A damaged rotor can cause the brake pads to wear prematurely.
- If you are uncomfortable changing the brake pads yourself, you can take your car to a qualified mechanic.
