- Lug wrench
- Jack and jack stands
- Socket set
- Phillips head screwdriver
- Flathead screwdriver
- Brake fluid
- Brake cleaner
- New brake pads
- C-clamp
Step 1: Prepare the Car
- Park the car on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
- Loosen the lug nuts on the front wheels, but do not remove them completely.
- Jack up the car and place jack stands under the frame to support it.
- Remove the lug nuts and take off the front wheels.
Step 2: Remove the Brake Caliper
- Locate the brake caliper on the front of the wheel hub.
- Remove the two bolts that hold the caliper in place using a socket wrench.
- Carefully remove the caliper and hang it from the suspension with a piece of wire or bungee cord. Do not let it hang by the brake line.
Step 3: Remove the Old Brake Pads
- Use a flathead screwdriver to pry the brake pads out of the caliper. They may be held in place by a metal clip or pin.
- Clean the caliper and piston using brake cleaner.
Step 4: Install the New Brake Pads
- Place the new brake pads in the caliper. Make sure they are seated properly.
- Reinstall the metal clip or pin, if necessary.
Step 5: Reinstall the Brake Caliper
- Carefully reinstall the brake caliper over the brake pads.
- Reinstall the two bolts that hold the caliper in place.
Step 6: Bleed the Brakes
- Open the bleeder valve located on the top of the brake caliper slightly.
- Depress the brake pedal until brake fluid comes out of the bleeder valve. Be careful not to press the pedal all the way to the floor.
- Close the bleeder valve.
- Repeat steps 6 and 7 for the other front brake caliper.
Step 7: Refill the Brake Fluid Reservoir
- Locate the brake fluid reservoir under the hood of your car.
- Remove the cap and fill the reservoir to the proper level with new brake fluid.
Step 8: Test the Brakes
- Slowly depress the brake pedal and verify it feels firm.
- Take the car for a test drive and brake gently at first to confirm that brakes work properly.
Note: Make sure to follow the instructions in your car's owner's manual for specific details and precautions. Changing brake pads can affect the overall brake performance and safety of your vehicle, so it is important to do it correctly. If you are not comfortable performing the repair, it is always a good idea to take your car to a qualified mechanic.
