Sustaining your car’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 activity could appear formidable to some, it is a comparatively simple process that even novice DIY fans can undertake with the fitting instruments and steering. By following the steps outlined on this complete information, you may confidently exchange your rear brake pads and improve the efficiency and reliability of your car’s braking system.
Earlier than embarking on the duty of changing your rear brake pads, it is important to collect the required instruments and supplies. These embrace a set of latest brake pads, a lug wrench or influence 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 car’s proprietor’s guide for any particular directions or precautions pertaining to your specific make and mannequin.
With the required instruments at your disposal, rigorously observe the step-by-step directions outlined within the subsequent sections of this information. Start by safely elevating the rear of your car 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. Rigorously 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. It will create sufficient clearance to take away the outdated brake pads and insert the brand new ones.
Gathering Supplies
Earlier than embarking on this activity, it’s essential to collect the indispensable instruments and supplies essential for the job:
- New rear brake pads: These needs to be particularly designed to your make and mannequin.
- Lug wrench: Used to loosen and tighten the lug nuts.
- Jack and jack stands: For safely elevating the car.
- C-clamp or brake spring software: To compress the brake caliper piston.
- Brake caliper software or giant adjustable wrench: To take away and reinstall the brake calipers.
- Wire brush: For cleansing brake parts.
- Brake cleaner: To take away any grime or grime from the brake pads and rotors.
- Anti-seize lubricant: To forestall corrosion and guarantee clean operation.
- Security glasses: For eye safety.
Moreover, if you should exchange the brake rotors as properly, you will want new rotors and probably new bolts.
Security Precautions
When working in your car’s braking system, it’s paramount to prioritize security:
- Park the car on a flat, secure floor and have interaction the parking brake.
- Permit 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 car with a single jack; use jack stands for added stability.
- Be cautious when dealing with brake fluid, as it will probably harm paint and trigger pores and skin irritation.
- Eliminate used brake pads and rotors responsibly at a licensed 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 steel part that homes the brake pads. Determine the attachment bolts that maintain the caliper in place; these are normally seen on the facet of the caliper.
2. Eradicating the Caliper
Rigorously 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 parts.
Some calipers could require extra steps to take away, resembling 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 can be thicker than the outdated ones.
To compress the caliper piston, you will want a C-clamp or a particular brake caliper compression software. If you’re utilizing a C-clamp, you’ll want to place a chunk of wooden or a rag between the clamp and the piston to forestall 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 wood 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 |
|---|---|
| If you’re having bother compressing the caliper piston, it’s possible you’ll want to make use of a particular brake caliper compression software. | |
| You should definitely clear the caliper piston and the encircling space earlier than compressing the piston. | |
| If the caliper piston is broken, it’s going to have to be changed. |
Eradicating the Previous Brake Pads
Changing your rear brake pads is a comparatively simple activity that may be accomplished in about an hour with the fitting instruments and a bit of know-how. This is a step-by-step information that will help you by the method:
Step 1: Examine the Brake Pads
Earlier than you begin, check out your brake pads to see in the event that they have to 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 spanking new ones.
Step 2: Elevate the Automobile
Place the car on a degree floor and have interaction the parking brake. Use a jack to lift the rear of the car till you’ve got 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 free, take away the wheels and set them apart.
Step 4: Take away the Brake Caliper
The brake caliper is the steel housing that accommodates 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 outdated brake pads. Use a screwdriver or a pry bar to rigorously take away the outdated brake pads from the caliper.
Warning: Don’t use extreme pressure when eradicating the brake pads. The pads are fragile and might be simply broken.
Step 5: Clear the Brake Caliper and Rotor
Earlier than putting in the brand new brake pads, you will need to clear the brake caliper and rotor. Use a brake cleaner and a wire brush to take away any grime or particles. It will 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. It will assist to forestall 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. Ensure that 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 may reinstall the brake caliper. Tighten the caliper bolts to the required torque.
Step 8: Change the Wheels
Reinstall the wheels and tighten the lug nuts. Decrease the car 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. It will assist to make sure that the pads make good contact with the rotor.
Step 10: Take a look at the Brakes
Take the car for a check drive to guarantee that the brakes are working correctly. You should definitely check the brakes at totally different speeds and in numerous driving situations.
Cleansing the Caliper and Brake Rotors
Earlier than putting in the brand new brake pads, it is necessary 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 grime, rust, or particles from the caliper housing and piston. If the caliper is excessively soiled, it could be essential to take away it from the car for a radical cleansing. Seek the advice of your car’s service guide for particular directions on caliper removing.
Brake Rotors
Step 1: Examine the Rotors
Look at the brake rotors for any indicators of damage, resembling grooves, cracks, or warpage. If the rotors are excessively worn or broken, they might have to 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 grime, grease, or particles. Be certain that the rotors are fully dry earlier than continuing.
Step 3: Apply Anti-Squeal Grease
To forestall 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
After you have eliminated the outdated 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 grime, rust, or particles from the brake caliper. It will be sure 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. It will assist forestall them from squealing or chattering if you brake.
Step 3: Place the Brake Pads
Place the brand new brake pads contained in the brake caliper. Ensure that 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 required torque.
Step 6: Bleed the Brakes
After you’ve got put in the brand new brake pads, you should 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 will want 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 helpful degree. |
| 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 when 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 parts concerned. First, verify the situation of the caliper mounting bolts and exchange them if essential. 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. It will assist to forestall noise and guarantee correct lubrication. Align the caliper again onto the bracket and thoroughly slide it into place. If wanted, use a rubber mallet to faucet the caliper into its correct place.
Be certain that the caliper is pushed all the way in which onto the bracket and the bolts are absolutely tightened. The caliper needs to be securely in place and there shouldn’t be any extreme motion. Double verify 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 decreased 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 full of 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 movement 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 contemporary DOT3 brake fluid.
Ideas for Bleeding the Brake System
| Ideas |
|---|
| Use high-quality DOT3 brake fluid particularly designed to your car. |
| Hold the grasp cylinder reservoir topped up throughout the bleeding course of to forestall air from coming into the system. |
| Pump the brake pedal slowly and constantly to keep away from forcing air into the system. |
| Tighten the bleed screws to the required torque to forestall leaks. |
Take a look at Driving and Inspecting the Brakes
Checking for Noises
Take your car for a brief check drive and hear for any uncommon noises coming from the wheels. Grinding or squealing sounds can point out worn brake pads that have to be changed. Confirm the noise is coming from the rear wheels, as noise from the entrance brakes is not going to be as audible.
Inspecting Brake Pad Thickness
Jack up the rear of the car and safe it on jack stands for stability. Take away the rear wheels to reveal the brake pads. Visually examine the brake pads by 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 have to 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 companion. This may be brought on by 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, resembling deep grooves, scoring, or warping. If the rotors are closely worn or broken, they might have to be resurfaced or changed. Resurfacing includes eradicating a skinny layer of steel from the floor of the rotor to create a clean, flat floor for the brand new brake pads to mattress in correctly.
Brake Fluid Stage Verify
With the wheels eliminated, find the brake fluid reservoir underneath the hood of the car. Verify the fluid degree and high it off with the really helpful sort of brake fluid if essential. Low brake fluid ranges can point out a leak within the brake system, which needs to be investigated promptly.
Caliper Inspection
Rigorously examine the brake calipers for any indicators of injury, resembling leaks, cracks, or corrosion. Be certain that the caliper pistons transfer easily and retract absolutely when not engaged. Sticking calipers may cause uneven brake pad put on and decreased 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. Change 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}. It will assist cut back noise and put on.
Reassembly
As soon as the brake pads have been changed and inspected, reassemble the brake parts in reverse order of disassembly. Tighten all nuts and bolts to the producer’s specs.
Step 4: Eradicating Previous Brake Pads
Security First! Have interaction the parking brake and place wheel chocks behind the wheels reverse the facet you are engaged on. Find the caliper mounting bolts and take away them. Rigorously elevate the caliper off the rotor, supporting it with a bungee wire or wire to forestall any harm to the brake line. Now, you may see the outdated brake pads held in place by anti-rattle clips. Use a flathead screwdriver or brake pad removing software to pry them free.
Step 5: Cleansing and Inspecting Parts
Totally clear the caliper bracket, caliper piston, and rotor floor with brake cleaner to take away any grime or particles. Examine the parts for any indicators of injury, corrosion, or uneven put on. If essential, 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 cut 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
Rigorously elevate the caliper again onto the rotor and safe it utilizing the caliper mounting bolts. Tighten the bolts to the required 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 purposes. This enables the pads to evolve to the rotor’s floor and optimize braking efficiency.
Step 10: Checking Brake Fluid Stage
After changing the brake pads, verify the brake fluid degree within the grasp cylinder. Brake pad substitute may cause the fluid degree to drop barely. If essential, high it up with the suitable brake fluid, making certain it is on the specified degree.
| Device Checklist |
|---|
| Socket or wrench set |
| Caliper mounting bolts |
| Flathead screwdriver or brake pad removing software |
| Brake cleaner |
| Brake lubricant |
| Torque wrench |
Find out how to Change Rear Brake Pads
Changing rear brake pads is a comparatively easy activity that may be accomplished in about an hour with the fitting instruments. Listed below are the steps on methods to do it:
- Collect your instruments. You will want 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, steel 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 outdated 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 grime or particles.
- Apply brake grease to the again of the brand new brake pads. It will forestall them from squealing.
- Set up the brand new brake pads. Be certain that they’re correctly seated within the caliper.
- Reinstall the brake caliper. Tighten the bolts to the required torque.
- Reinstall the wheel and lug nuts. Tighten the lug nuts to the required torque.
- Decrease the automotive. Take away the jack stands.
- Pump the brake pedal a number of instances. It will assist to seat the brand new brake pads.
- Take a look at drive the automotive. Pay attention for any uncommon noises or vibrations.
Folks Additionally Ask
Can I exchange rear brake pads myself?
Sure, changing rear brake pads is a comparatively easy activity that may be accomplished in about an hour with the fitting instruments. Nonetheless, you will need to observe the protection directions rigorously and to seek the advice of a mechanic in case you are not snug performing the duty.
How lengthy does it take to exchange rear brake pads?
It ought to take about an hour to exchange rear brake pads. Nonetheless, this time could fluctuate relying in your expertise and the instruments you’ve got obtainable.
How a lot does it price to exchange rear brake pads?
The price of changing rear brake pads will fluctuate relying on the make and mannequin of your automotive, in addition to the kind of brake pads you select. Nonetheless, you may anticipate to pay between $100 and $300 for the components and labor.
