* Lug wrench
* 17mm socket
* 13mm socket
* 10mm socket
* Flat-blade screwdriver
* Phillips-head screwdriver
* Brake cleaner
* Brake fluid
* New brake pads and rotors
NOTE
Brake repair is an important safety-related project. If you don’t feel comfortable performing this task, ask a friend or relative who does. Always take all necessary safety precautions when working around vehicles, including wearing safety glasses and setting the parking brake.
Instructions:
1. Chock both front wheels if doing the rear brakes or chock the rear wheels if doing the front brakes. If working on the front, turn the ignition to the "On" position, but don't start the engine. If you don’t have wheel chocks, place heavy objects in front of and behind the wheels to prevent your vehicle from rolling.
2. Raise your vehicle off the ground with a floor jack and then place jack stands under your vehicle to support its weight. Never get under your vehicle if it’s only supported by a floor jack. Make sure to set the parking brake before raising the vehicle.
3. Locate the caliper bolt and use a 15mm socket to remove it. It’s a large, heavy nut found at the back of the brake caliper. It may take some force to loosen the nut.
4. Remove the two bracket bolts that hold the brake caliper in place using your wrench and a 13mm socket. Slide the caliper off the brake rotor. Don't let it dangle by the flexible brake hose. Use a bungee cord or mechanics wire to hang it from the strut.
5. Remove the old brake pads from the caliper bracket; they may come out with the caliper when you slide it off the brake rotor. Check the brake pads for wear. If the lining is thinner than 1/4 inch (6.35mm) or if there are any cracks or other damage, replace the brake pads.
6. Use a brake cleaner to clean the brake caliper, caliper bracket, and brake rotor.
7. Apply a thin coat of brake grease to the back of the new brake pads. It helps prevent squealing.
8. Insert the new brake pads into the caliper bracket and slide the caliper back into place over them. Secure it with the two bolts previously removed.
9. Install the caliper bolt (removed in Step 3) that secures the caliper to the caliper bracket. Tighten it until it’s snug, then give the nut an extra 1/4 to 1/2 a turn to make sure it’s tight. Don't over-tighten the bolt, or you could damage the threads.
10. Repeat Steps 4 through 10 to replace the brake pads on the other wheel.
11. Lower your vehicle.
Note
Check your brake fluid level in your master cylinder. If it's low, add brake fluid of the type specified in your owner’s manual. Pump the brake pedal several times to work the new brake pads against the brake rotor. Go for a test drive to ensure that the brakes are working properly.
