Replacing your rear or front brake pads and rotors can be a daunting task, but it’s a job that most people can do with just a few simple tools. In this article, you’ll learn how to remove the old rear and front brake pads and rotors and install new ones in their place.
1. Jack up the car and place it on jack stands
First, you’ll need to jack up the car and place it on jack stands. To do this, place the jack under the car’s frame near the wheel you’re working on. Once the car is raised off the ground, place a jack stand under the car to support it. Remember to take proper safety precautions when jacking up your car.
2. Remove the lug nuts and wheel
The next step is to remove the lug nuts and wheel. You’ll need a wrench or socket to do this. Once the lug nuts are removed, you can pull the wheel off the car.
3. Remove the caliper
After jacking up the car, you’ll need to remove the caliper.
The caliper is what holds the brake pads in place. There are two bolts that hold the caliper in place. Use a wrench or socket to remove these bolts and take the caliper off the car.
4. Remove the old brake pads
Once the caliper is off, you can remove the old front or rear brakes and rotors. There are usually two clips that hold the brake pads in place. Use a screwdriver to remove these clips and take the old brake pads out.
5. Install the new brake pads
Now, it’s time to install the new front or rear brakes and rotors. Put the new brake pads in place and use the clips to hold them in place.
Keep in mind that the new brake pads will be a little thicker than the old ones, so you may have to adjust the caliper accordingly.
6. Install the caliper
The next step is to install the caliper. Put the caliper back in place and use a wrench or socket to tighten the bolts.
7. Install the wheel
Once the caliper is installed, you can return the wheel. Put the lug nuts back on and use a socket wrench to tighten them.
8. Lower the car
Finally, lower the car off the jack stands.
You’ve now successfully replaced your brake pads and rotors. Take the car for a test drive to make sure the brakes are working properly. If you notice any problems, take the car to a mechanic to have it checked out.
Some tips:
- If your rotors are warped or damaged, you’ll need to replace them as well.
- It’s a good idea to bleed the brakes after replacing the pads and/or rotors. This will ensure that there is no air in the brake lines.
- If your brake pads are worn down to the metal, you’ll also need to replace the rotors.
- Be sure to check your car’s manual for specific instructions on how to replace your brake pads and rotors.
- If you’re not comfortable doing this job yourself, hire a mechanic.
Source: Manual Transmission Mount