Tools Needed:
- Jack and jack stands
- Lug wrench
- Socket wrench set
- Flat-head screwdriver
- Caliper compression tool
- Safety glasses
Step 1: Prepare the Vehicle
- Park your Tercel on a level surface.
- Turn off the engine and allow it to cool down.
- Engage the parking brake and chock the rear wheels.
- Loosen the lug nuts on the front wheels, but don't remove them completely.
Step 2: Raise the Vehicle
- Place a jack under the front subframe and raise the vehicle until the front wheels are off the ground.
- Securely position jack stands under the vehicle's designated jacking points to support its weight.
Step 3: Remove the Wheel
- Use a lug wrench to remove the lug nuts completely and take off the wheel.
Step 4: Remove the Caliper
- Locate the brake caliper on the back of the wheel hub.
- Remove the two bolts holding the caliper in place. They may be covered with plastic caps or a retaining clip.
- Lift off the caliper and hang it securely with a piece of wire to avoid damaging the brake line.
Step 5: Remove the Brake Pads
- Once the caliper is removed, you'll see the brake pads. They are usually held in place by metal clips or pins.
- Use a screwdriver or pliers to remove the clips or pins.
- Carefully slide out the old brake pads.
Step 6: Inspect the Rotor
- Inspect the brake rotor for any signs of wear, scoring, or heavy grooves.
- If necessary, the rotor may need to be resurfaced or replaced. If you see uneven wear or deep grooves, it's advisable to replace the rotor.
Step 7: Install the New Rotor (if needed)
- To install a new rotor, place it on the wheel hub and secure it with the lug nuts.
- Tighten the lug nuts by hand until they are snug.
Step 8: Install the New Brake Pads
- Take the new brake pads and slide them into the caliper bracket.
- Make sure the pads are properly aligned and seated.
- Reinstall the caliper by aligning it carefully and securing it with the appropriate bolts.
Step 9: Compress the Caliper Piston
- Use a caliper compression tool to compress the caliper piston back into the caliper. This will allow the new brake pads to fit inside.
- Ensure that the caliper piston is fully retracted and seated.
Step 10: Reattach the Wheel
- Position the wheel back on the lug nuts and hand-tighten them.
- Lower the vehicle until it's just touching the ground, but don't remove the jack stands yet.
- Tighten the lug nuts with a lug wrench in a star pattern to evenly distribute force and prevent warping of the rotor.
- Lower the vehicle fully and remove the jack stands.
Step 11: Test the Brakes
- Start the vehicle and test the brakes by pressing the brake pedal. The pedal should feel firm and you should feel increased braking power.
Step 12: Road Test
- Take the Tercel for a short road test, gradually increasing and decreasing the braking pressure. Be sure to test in a safe area with minimal traffic.
Note:
Always refer to your vehicle's specific owner's manual or a reputable repair guide for detailed instructions and specifications for your model.
