Sustaining your automobile’s braking system is paramount for making certain your security and the longevity of your automotive. One essential side of this upkeep is changing worn brake pads, notably the rear brake pads. Whereas this process could appear formidable to some, it is a comparatively easy process that even novice DIY fans can undertake with the appropriate instruments and steerage. By following the steps outlined on this complete information, you possibly can confidently exchange your rear brake pads and improve the efficiency and reliability of your automobile’s braking system.
Earlier than embarking on the duty of changing your rear brake pads, it is important to assemble the mandatory instruments and supplies. These embrace a set of recent brake pads, a lug wrench or impression wrench, a ground jack and jack stands, a torque wrench, a C-clamp or brake caliper spreader, and a pair of security glasses. Moreover, seek the advice of your automobile’s proprietor’s handbook for any particular directions or precautions pertaining to your specific make and mannequin.
With the mandatory instruments at your disposal, fastidiously observe the step-by-step directions outlined within the subsequent sections of this information. Start by safely elevating the rear of your automobile utilizing the ground jack and securing it with the jack stands. Take away the rear wheels, after which find the brake calipers that home the brake pads. Fastidiously take away the caliper bolts and detach the caliper from the rotor. As soon as the caliper is eliminated, compress the caliper piston utilizing the C-clamp or brake caliper spreader. This may create sufficient clearance to take away the previous brake pads and insert the brand new ones.
Gathering Supplies
Earlier than embarking on this process, it’s essential to assemble the indispensable instruments and supplies mandatory for the job:
- New rear brake pads: These must be particularly designed in your make and mannequin.
- Lug wrench: Used to loosen and tighten the lug nuts.
- Jack and jack stands: For safely elevating the automobile.
- C-clamp or brake spring instrument: To compress the brake caliper piston.
- Brake caliper instrument or giant adjustable wrench: To take away and reinstall the brake calipers.
- Wire brush: For cleansing brake elements.
- Brake cleaner: To take away any filth or grime from the brake pads and rotors.
- Anti-seize lubricant: To stop corrosion and guarantee easy operation.
- Security glasses: For eye safety.
Moreover, if it’s essential to exchange the brake rotors as properly, you will want new rotors and presumably new bolts.
Security Precautions
When working in your automobile’s braking system, it’s paramount to prioritize security:
- Park the automobile on a flat, secure floor and have interaction the parking brake.
- Enable the brakes to chill down earlier than beginning work.
- Put on security glasses and gloves all through the method.
- Don’t try to elevate the automobile with a single jack; use jack stands for added stability.
- Be cautious when dealing with brake fluid, as it may possibly harm paint and trigger pores and skin irritation.
- Get rid of used brake pads and rotors responsibly at a certified recycling facility.
Figuring out and Eradicating the Caliper
1. Figuring out the Caliper
Find the caliper on the brake rotor. It is usually a big, C-shaped metallic part that homes the brake pads. Determine the attachment bolts that maintain the caliper in place; these are normally seen on the aspect of the caliper.
2. Eradicating the Caliper
Fastidiously loosen the caliper attachment bolts utilizing a wrench or socket set. Take away the bolts and gently elevate the caliper off the rotor. Be cautious to not pull on the brake hose or harm any surrounding elements.
Some calipers could require further steps to take away, akin to disengaging a parking brake cable or unbolting a caliper information pin.
Steps for Eradicating the Caliper with a Parking Brake Cable
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Find the parking brake cable hooked up to the caliper. |
| 2 | Disconnect the cable from its lever or bracket. |
| 3 | Loosen and take away the caliper attachment bolts. |
| 4 | Gently elevate the caliper off the rotor. |
Compressing the Caliper Piston
As soon as the brake caliper is faraway from the rotor, it is time to compress the caliper piston. That is essential to make room for the brand new brake pads, which might be thicker than the previous ones.
To compress the caliper piston, you will want a C-clamp or a particular brake caliper compression instrument. In case you are utilizing a C-clamp, remember to place a bit of wooden or a rag between the clamp and the piston to stop harm.
Here’s a detailed step-by-step information on methods to compress the caliper piston utilizing a C-clamp:
- Place the C-clamp on the caliper piston, with the picket block or rag in between.
- Tighten the C-clamp till the piston is absolutely compressed.
- As soon as the piston is compressed, take away the C-clamp and examine the brake caliper for any harm.
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| In case you are having hassle compressing the caliper piston, you could want to make use of a particular brake caliper compression instrument. | |
| You’ll want to clear the caliper piston and the encompassing space earlier than compressing the piston. | |
| If the caliper piston is broken, it can must be changed. |
Eradicating the Outdated Brake Pads
Changing your rear brake pads is a comparatively easy process that may be accomplished in about an hour with the appropriate instruments and slightly know-how. This is a step-by-step information that will help you by way of the method:
Step 1: Examine the Brake Pads
Earlier than you begin, check out your brake pads to see in the event that they must be changed. If the pads are lower than 1/4 inch thick, or if they’ve any cracks or gouges, it is time for brand new ones.
Step 2: Elevate the Car
Place the automobile on a stage floor and have interaction the parking brake. Use a jack to boost the rear of the automobile till you’ve gotten sufficient clearance to work on the brakes.
Step 3: Take away the Wheels
Use a lug wrench to loosen the lug nuts on the rear wheels. As soon as the lug nuts are unfastened, take away the wheels and set them apart.
Step 4: Take away the Brake Caliper
The brake caliper is the metallic housing that comprises the brake pads. It’s normally held in place by two bolts. Use a wrench to loosen the bolts after which take away the caliper from the brake rotor.
As soon as the caliper is eliminated, it is possible for you to to see the previous brake pads. Use a screwdriver or a pry bar to fastidiously take away the previous brake pads from the caliper.
Warning: Don’t use extreme pressure when eradicating the brake pads. The pads are fragile and may be simply broken.
Step 5: Clear the Brake Caliper and Rotor
Earlier than putting in the brand new brake pads, it is very important clear the brake caliper and rotor. Use a brake cleaner and a wire brush to take away any filth or particles. This may assist to make sure that the brand new brake pads make good contact with the rotor.
Step 6: Set up the New Brake Pads
Apply a skinny layer of brake grease to the again of the brand new brake pads. This may assist to stop the pads from squeaking and also will assist to cut back put on on the caliper.
Insert the brand new brake pads into the caliper. Make it possible for the pads are correctly aligned and that they match snugly.
Step 7: Reinstall the Brake Caliper
As soon as the brand new brake pads are put in, you possibly can reinstall the brake caliper. Tighten the caliper bolts to the desired torque.
Step 8: Exchange the Wheels
Reinstall the wheels and tighten the lug nuts. Decrease the automobile and take away the jack.
Step 9: Pump the Brake Pedal
Pump the brake pedal a number of instances to seat the brand new brake pads. This may assist to make sure that the pads make good contact with the rotor.
Step 10: Check the Brakes
Take the automobile for a take a look at drive to make it possible for the brakes are working correctly. You’ll want to take a look at the brakes at completely different speeds and in numerous driving circumstances.
Cleansing the Caliper and Brake Rotors
Earlier than putting in the brand new brake pads, it is vital to wash the caliper and brake rotors to make sure optimum efficiency and longevity of the braking system.
Calipers
Utilizing a wire brush or brake cleaner, take away any filth, rust, or particles from the caliper housing and piston. If the caliper is excessively soiled, it might be essential to take away it from the automobile for an intensive cleansing. Seek the advice of your automobile’s service handbook for particular directions on caliper elimination.
Brake Rotors
Step 1: Examine the Rotors
Look at the brake rotors for any indicators of damage, akin to grooves, cracks, or warpage. If the rotors are excessively worn or broken, they could must be changed.
Step 2: Clear the Rotors
Utilizing a brake cleaner or rubbing alcohol, clear the floor of the brake rotors to take away any filth, grease, or particles. Make sure that the rotors are fully dry earlier than continuing.
Step 3: Apply Anti-Squeal Grease
To stop noise and vibrations, apply a skinny layer of anti-squeal grease to the outer edges of the brand new brake pads. Keep away from getting grease on the friction surfaces of the pads.
Putting in the New Brake Pads
Upon getting eliminated the previous brake pads, it is time to set up the brand new ones. This is a step-by-step information on methods to do it:
Step 1: Clear the Brake Caliper
Use a wire brush or a brake cleaner to take away any filth, rust, or particles from the brake caliper. This may be certain that the brand new brake pads make good contact with the caliper.
Step 2: Apply Brake Grease
Apply a skinny layer of brake grease to the again of the brand new brake pads. This may assist stop them from squealing or chattering once you brake.
Step 3: Place the Brake Pads
Place the brand new brake pads contained in the brake caliper. Make it possible for they’re seated correctly and that the shims are in place.
Step 4: Set up the Anti-Rattle Clips
In case your brake pads got here with anti-rattle clips, set up them now. These clips assist to maintain the brake pads in place and stop them from rattling.
Step 5: Set up the Caliper Bracket
Reinstall the caliper bracket over the brake pads and caliper. Tighten the bolts to the desired torque.
Step 6: Bleed the Brakes
After you’ve gotten put in the brand new brake pads, it’s essential to bleed the brakes to take away any air from the system. This is an in depth information on methods to bleed the brakes:
| Step | Motion |
|---|---|
| 1 | Collect your instruments and supplies. You have to a brake fluid reservoir, a brake bleeder wrench, a transparent hose, and a glass jar. |
| 2 | Open the brake fluid reservoir and fill it to the really useful stage. |
| 3 | Find the brake bleeder screw on the caliper. It’s normally a small screw with a rubber cap. |
| 4 | Connect the clear hose to the bleeder screw and submerge the opposite finish within the glass jar. |
| 5 | Have an assistant slowly press down on the brake pedal whilst you open the bleeder screw. |
| 6 | Shut the bleeder screw and have your assistant launch the brake pedal. |
| 7 | Repeat steps 5 and 6 till no extra air bubbles come out of the hose. |
| 8 | Prime off the brake fluid reservoir and exchange the cap. |
Reinstalling the Caliper
7. Reattaching the Caliper
That is the step the place you will want to be very cautious to not harm any of the elements concerned. First, examine the situation of the caliper mounting bolts and exchange them if mandatory. Clear the floor of the caliper’s mounting factors and the bracket the place will probably be hooked up. Apply a skinny layer of brake grease to the again of the brake pads and information pins. This may assist to stop noise and guarantee correct lubrication. Align the caliper again onto the bracket and punctiliously slide it into place. If wanted, use a rubber mallet to faucet the caliper into its correct place.
Ensure the caliper is pushed all the way in which onto the bracket and the bolts are absolutely tightened. The caliper must be securely in place and there shouldn’t be any extreme motion. Double examine to make sure that the bleeder screw is tightened correctly. Additionally, examine the brake line for any harm or leaks.
Bleeding the Brake System
Bleeding the brake system is essential to take away any air which will have entered the system throughout the brake pad substitute course of. Air within the braking system can result in spongy pedals and lowered braking effectivity.
Step 8: Bleeding the Rear Brake Calipers
For rear brake calipers with two bleed screws (one on the high and one on the backside), observe these steps:
- Join a transparent plastic hose to the higher bleed screw. Make sure the hose reaches a transparent container crammed with brake fluid.
- Have an assistant slowly depress the brake pedal a number of instances, permitting it to return absolutely every time.
- Whereas the pedal is depressed, open the higher bleed screw. Brake fluid and trapped air will move out of the hose into the container.
- Shut the higher bleed screw when the brake pedal is close to the underside of its journey.
- Repeat steps 2-4 till no extra air bubbles are seen within the brake fluid.
- Open the decrease bleed screw and repeat steps 2-4.
- When each bleed screws are bled, high up the brake fluid reservoir with recent DOT3 brake fluid.
Suggestions for Bleeding the Brake System
| Suggestions |
|---|
| Use high-quality DOT3 brake fluid particularly designed in your automobile. |
| Preserve the grasp cylinder reservoir topped up throughout the bleeding course of to stop air from coming into the system. |
| Pump the brake pedal slowly and persistently to keep away from forcing air into the system. |
| Tighten the bleed screws to the desired torque to stop leaks. |
Check Driving and Inspecting the Brakes
Checking for Noises
Take your automobile for a brief take a look at drive and pay attention for any uncommon noises coming from the wheels. Grinding or squealing sounds can point out worn brake pads that must be changed. Confirm the noise is coming from the rear wheels, as noise from the entrance brakes won’t be as audible.
Inspecting Brake Pad Thickness
Jack up the rear of the automobile and safe it on jack stands for stability. Take away the rear wheels to show the brake pads. Visually examine the brake pads by way of the caliper openings. The pads ought to have a minimum of 1/4-inch of friction materials remaining. If the pads are considerably worn or lower than 1/8-inch thick, they must be changed.
Checking for Uneven Put on
Pay shut consideration to the situation of the brake pads. One of many key indicators of brake points is uneven or extreme put on on one pad compared to its associate. This may be attributable to a defective caliper or sticking piston, which prevents the pad from retracting correctly. If uneven put on is noticed, it is essential to have the caliper inspected and serviced.
Inspecting Brake Rotor Situation
Whereas the wheels are off, examine the brake rotors for any indicators of injury, akin to deep grooves, scoring, or warping. If the rotors are closely worn or broken, they could must be resurfaced or changed. Resurfacing entails eradicating a skinny layer of metallic from the floor of the rotor to create a easy, flat floor for the brand new brake pads to mattress in correctly.
Brake Fluid Degree Verify
With the wheels eliminated, find the brake fluid reservoir underneath the hood of the automobile. Verify the fluid stage and high it off with the really useful sort of brake fluid if mandatory. Low brake fluid ranges can point out a leak within the brake system, which must be investigated promptly.
Caliper Inspection
Fastidiously examine the brake calipers for any indicators of injury, akin to leaks, cracks, or corrosion. Make sure that the caliper pistons transfer easily and retract absolutely when not engaged. Sticking calipers could cause uneven brake pad put on and lowered braking effectiveness.
{Hardware} Inspection
Examine the brake pad {hardware}, together with the springs, clips, and information pins. Search for any indicators of damage or harm. Exchange any broken {hardware} to make sure correct brake pad operation.
Lubrication
Apply a small quantity of high-temperature brake grease to the contact factors between the brake pads and the caliper {hardware}. This may assist scale back noise and put on.
Reassembly
As soon as the brake pads have been changed and inspected, reassemble the brake elements in reverse order of disassembly. Tighten all nuts and bolts to the producer’s specs.
Step 4: Eradicating Outdated Brake Pads
Security First! Have interaction the parking brake and place wheel chocks behind the wheels reverse the aspect you are engaged on. Find the caliper mounting bolts and take away them. Fastidiously elevate the caliper off the rotor, supporting it with a bungee twine or wire to stop any harm to the brake line. Now, you may see the previous brake pads held in place by anti-rattle clips. Use a flathead screwdriver or brake pad elimination instrument to pry them unfastened.
Step 5: Cleansing and Inspecting Parts
Totally clear the caliper bracket, caliper piston, and rotor floor with brake cleaner to take away any filth or particles. Examine the elements for any indicators of injury, corrosion, or uneven put on. If mandatory, exchange any broken components earlier than continuing.
Step 6: Making use of Brake Lubricant
Apply a skinny layer of brake lubricant to the again of the brand new brake pads and the contact factors on the caliper bracket. This lubricant helps scale back noise and vibration throughout braking.
Step 7: Putting in the New Brake Pads
Place the brand new brake pads within the caliper bracket and safe them with the anti-rattle clips. Make sure the pads are correctly aligned and absolutely seated.
Step 8: Reinstalling the Caliper
Fastidiously elevate the caliper again onto the rotor and safe it utilizing the caliper mounting bolts. Tighten the bolts to the desired torque utilizing a torque wrench.
Step 9: Seating the Brake Pads
With the repairs full, it is essential to seat the brake pads by performing a collection of sunshine brake functions. This permits the pads to evolve to the rotor’s floor and optimize braking efficiency.
Step 10: Checking Brake Fluid Degree
After changing the brake pads, examine the brake fluid stage within the grasp cylinder. Brake pad substitute could cause the fluid stage to drop barely. If mandatory, high it up with the suitable brake fluid, making certain it is on the specified stage.
| Software Checklist |
|---|
| Socket or wrench set |
| Caliper mounting bolts |
| Flathead screwdriver or brake pad elimination instrument |
| Brake cleaner |
| Brake lubricant |
| Torque wrench |
Exchange Rear Brake Pads
Changing rear brake pads is a comparatively easy process that may be accomplished in about an hour with the appropriate instruments. Listed below are the steps on methods to do it:
- Collect your instruments. You have to a jack, jack stands, a lug wrench, a C-clamp, and a brand new set of brake pads.
- Security first! Park your automotive on a flat floor and have interaction the parking brake.
- Loosen the lug nuts. Don’t take away them fully.
- Jack up the rear of the automotive. Place the jack stands underneath the designated jack factors.
- Take away the lug nuts and the wheel.
- Find the brake caliper. It’s the giant, metallic part that homes the brake pads.
- Compress the brake caliper piston. Use a C-clamp to compress the piston again into the caliper.
- Take away the previous brake pads. They are going to be held in place by clips or pins.
- Clear the caliper and bracket. Use a brake cleaner to take away any filth or particles.
- Apply brake grease to the again of the brand new brake pads. This may stop them from squealing.
- Set up the brand new brake pads. Ensure they’re correctly seated within the caliper.
- Reinstall the brake caliper. Tighten the bolts to the desired torque.
- Reinstall the wheel and lug nuts. Tighten the lug nuts to the desired torque.
- Decrease the automotive. Take away the jack stands.
- Pump the brake pedal a number of instances. This may assist to seat the brand new brake pads.
- Check drive the automotive. Hear for any uncommon noises or vibrations.
Individuals Additionally Ask
Can I exchange rear brake pads myself?
Sure, changing rear brake pads is a comparatively easy process that may be accomplished in about an hour with the appropriate instruments. Nonetheless, it is very important observe the protection directions fastidiously and to seek the advice of a mechanic if you’re not comfy performing the duty.
How lengthy does it take to switch rear brake pads?
It ought to take about an hour to switch rear brake pads. Nonetheless, this time could differ relying in your expertise and the instruments you’ve gotten accessible.
How a lot does it value to switch rear brake pads?
The price of changing rear brake pads will differ relying on the make and mannequin of your automotive, in addition to the kind of brake pads you select. Nonetheless, you possibly can count on to pay between $100 and $300 for the components and labor.
