- Safety glasses
- 10mm wrench
- 15mm wrench
- Breaker bar
- C-Clamp or brake caliper tool
- New brake pads
- New brake rotors (optional, if needed)
- Brake grease
- Torque wrench
Instructions:
1. Prepare your vehicle:
- Safely lift your vehicle with either a jack and jack stands or ramps and chock the rear wheels to prevent it from rolling.
2. Remove the wheel:
- Use a 15mm wrench to loosen and remove the lug nuts, then take off the wheel.
3. Remove the brake caliper:
- Locate the two 10mm bolts holding the brake caliper to the caliper bracket.
- Loosen the bolts but don't remove them completely.
- Gently pry the caliper off the rotor and hang it from a nearby hook or suspension component using a coat hanger or wire to prevent it from damaging the brake line.
- Don't let the caliper hang by its brake line.
4. Inspect the brake rotor:
- Check the condition of the brake rotor. If it is worn out, scored, or grooved, you should replace it.
5. Replace the brake pads:
- Remove the old brake pads from the caliper bracket.
- Use a C-clamp or brake caliper tool to push back the piston in the caliper to make room for the new pads.
- Apply a small amount of brake grease to the backing plates of the new pads.
- Install the new brake pads in the caliper bracket.
6. Reinstall the brake caliper:
- Place the brake caliper back over the rotor and align the bolts.
- Reinstall and tighten the 10mm bolts.
- Verify that the caliper is secured properly.
7. Reinstall the wheel:
- Place the wheel back on and hand-tighten the lug nuts.
- Lower your vehicle and then use the wrench to fully tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern.
8. Test the brakes:
- Start the engine and press the brake pedal a few times to ensure it feels firm and responsive.
9. Dispose of the old brake pads properly:
- Brake pads contain hazardous materials and must be disposed of according to local regulations.
Remember, brake repair can be dangerous if done improperly. If you are not comfortable performing this task, it's best to consult a professional mechanic.
