- Floor Jack
- Jack Stands
- Lug Wrench or Impact Wrench
- Socket Set
- Phillips-head Screwdriver
- Brake Cleaner
- Brake Caliper Wrench or C-Clamp
- New Brake Pads
- New Brake Rotors (optional, if needed)
- Brake Fluid
- Funnel
Instructions:
1. Prepare your car:
Park your car on a level surface and turn off the engine.
Engage the parking brake.
If using a jack, slightly loosen the lug nuts on all four wheels (but do not remove them completely) to make it easier to remove them later.
2. Lift your car:
Use a floor jack to lift the front end of your car until you have enough space to work comfortably.
Place jack stands under the pinch welds of your car, behind the front tires, for safety.
3. Remove the wheels:
Use the lug wrench or impact wrench to remove the lug nuts and wheels from the front of your car.
4. Inspect the old brake pads:
Examine the brake pads for wear. If the pads are less than 1/4 inch thick, they need to be replaced.
5. Remove the brake caliper:
Use a Phillips-head screwdriver to remove the two Phillips-head screws holding the brake caliper assembly to the wheel hub.
Once the screws are removed, lift the brake caliper up and off the rotor.
6. Remove the old brake pads:
Use a brake caliper wrench or C-clamp to compress the brake piston. This will allow you to remove the old brake pads.
7. Clean the brake caliper:
Use brake cleaner to clean the brake caliper and the surface of the rotor.
8. Install the new brake pads:
Slide the new brake pads into the caliper slots and ensure that they are seated properly.
9. Reinstall the brake caliper:
Place the brake caliper back over the rotor and insert the caliper mounting bolts. Tighten the bolts until they are snug.
10. Install the wheels and lug nuts:
Place the wheels back on the car and tighten the lug nuts until they are snug. Lower the car using the jack.
11. Test the brakes:
Pump the brake pedal repeatedly until you feel firm resistance. This will ensure all of the air is out of the brake lines.
12. Check brake fluid (if necessary):
If your brake fluid is low or dirty, you may need to add or change it. Refer to your car's owner's manual for instructions on checking the brake fluid.
Be sure to replace the brake pads on the other side of the car as well.
Remember, if you are not comfortable performing this task yourself, it is best to have it done by a professional mechanic.
