Sustaining your car’s braking system is paramount for making certain your security and the longevity of your automotive. One essential facet of this upkeep is changing worn brake pads, significantly the rear brake pads. Whereas this activity could seem formidable to some, it is a comparatively simple process that even novice DIY fanatics can undertake with the correct instruments and steerage. By following the steps outlined on this complete information, you’ll be able to 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 assemble the required instruments and supplies. These embody 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. This can create sufficient clearance to take away the previous brake pads and insert the brand new ones.
Gathering Supplies
Earlier than embarking on this activity, 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 car.
- C-clamp or brake spring device: To compress the brake caliper piston.
- Brake caliper device 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 stop corrosion and guarantee easy operation.
- Security glasses: For eye safety.
Moreover, if you could exchange the brake rotors as effectively, you will have 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, steady floor and interact 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 and raise the car with a single jack; use jack stands for added stability.
- Be cautious when dealing with brake fluid, as it might probably injury 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 sometimes a big, C-shaped steel element that homes the brake pads. Establish 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 raise the caliper off the rotor. Be cautious to not pull on the brake hose or injury any surrounding parts.
Some calipers might require further steps to take away, equivalent 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 connected to the caliper. |
| 2 | Disconnect the cable from its lever or bracket. |
| 3 | Loosen and take away the caliper attachment bolts. |
| 4 | Gently raise 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 will likely be thicker than the previous ones.
To compress the caliper piston, you will have a C-clamp or a particular brake caliper compression device. In case you are utilizing a C-clamp, make sure to place a bit of wooden or a rag between the clamp and the piston to stop injury.
Here’s a detailed step-by-step information on learn how 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 injury.
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| In case you are having bother compressing the caliper piston, it’s possible you’ll want to make use of a particular brake caliper compression device. | |
| Be sure you clear the caliper piston and the encompassing space earlier than compressing the piston. | |
| If the caliper piston is broken, it should should be changed. |
Eradicating the Outdated Brake Pads
Changing your rear brake pads is a comparatively simple activity that may be accomplished in about an hour with the correct instruments and a bit know-how. Here is a step-by-step information that can assist 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 should 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: Increase the Automobile
Place the car on a stage floor and interact the parking brake. Use a jack to lift the rear of the car till you could have 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 previous brake pads. Use a screwdriver or a pry bar to rigorously take away the previous brake pads from the caliper.
Warning: Don’t use extreme power 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, it is very important clear the brake caliper and rotor. Use a brake cleaner and a wire brush to take away any grime or particles. This can 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 can 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. Guarantee 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’ll be able to 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. This can 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 take a look at drive to be sure that the brakes are working correctly. Be sure you take a look at the brakes at totally different speeds and in several driving situations.
Cleansing the Caliper and Brake Rotors
Earlier than putting in the brand new brake pads, it is essential 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 might 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
Study the brake rotors for any indicators of damage, equivalent to grooves, cracks, or warpage. If the rotors are excessively worn or broken, they could should 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 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. Here is a step-by-step information on learn how 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. This can 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 can 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. Guarantee 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 forestall 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 could have put in the brand new brake pads, you could bleed the brakes to take away any air from the system. Here is an in depth information on learn how to bleed the brakes:
| Step | Motion |
|---|---|
| 1 | Collect your instruments and supplies. You will have 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 advisable 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 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 | High off the brake fluid reservoir and exchange the cap. |
Reinstalling the Caliper
7. Reattaching the Caliper
That is the step the place you will have to be very cautious to not injury any of the parts concerned. First, verify 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 connected. Apply a skinny layer of brake grease to the again of the brake pads and information pins. This can 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.
Make sure that 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 verify to make sure that the bleeder screw is tightened correctly. Additionally, examine the brake line for any injury or leaks.
Bleeding the Brake System
Bleeding the brake system is essential to take away any air that will have entered the system in the course of the brake pad alternative 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 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 stream 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 in your car. |
| Preserve the grasp cylinder reservoir topped up in the course of the bleeding course of to stop 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 stop leaks. |
Take a look at Driving and Inspecting the Brakes
Checking for Noises
Take your car for a brief take a look at drive and hear for any uncommon noises coming from the wheels. Grinding or squealing sounds can point out worn brake pads that should 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 at the least 1/4-inch of friction materials remaining. If the pads are considerably worn or lower than 1/8-inch thick, they should 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 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 harm, equivalent to deep grooves, scoring, or warping. If the rotors are closely worn or broken, they could should be resurfaced or changed. Resurfacing includes eradicating a skinny layer of steel 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 beneath the hood of the car. Verify the fluid stage and high it off with the advisable 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
Rigorously examine the brake calipers for any indicators of harm, equivalent to leaks, cracks, or corrosion. Be sure that the caliper pistons transfer easily and retract absolutely when not engaged. Sticking calipers could 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 injury. 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}. This can assist scale 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 Outdated Brake Pads
Security First! Interact 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 raise the caliper off the rotor, supporting it with a bungee twine or wire to stop any injury to the brake line. Now, you will see the previous brake pads held in place by anti-rattle clips. Use a flathead screwdriver or brake pad removing device to pry them free.
Step 5: Cleansing and Inspecting Elements
Completely 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 harm, corrosion, or uneven put on. If mandatory, exchange any broken elements 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
Rigorously raise 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 Degree
After changing the brake pads, verify the brake fluid stage within the grasp cylinder. Brake pad alternative 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 Listing |
|---|
| Socket or wrench set |
| Caliper mounting bolts |
| Flathead screwdriver or brake pad removing device |
| Brake cleaner |
| Brake lubricant |
| Torque wrench |
The best way to Change Rear Brake Pads
Changing rear brake pads is a comparatively easy activity that may be accomplished in about an hour with the correct instruments. Listed here are the steps on learn how to do it:
- Collect your instruments. You will have 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 interact the parking brake.
- Loosen the lug nuts. Don’t take away them fully.
- Jack up the rear of the automotive. Place the jack stands beneath the designated jack factors.
- Take away the lug nuts and the wheel.
- Find the brake caliper. It’s the giant, steel element 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 grime or particles.
- Apply brake grease to the again of the brand new brake pads. This can stop them from squealing.
- Set up the brand new brake pads. Make sure 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. This can assist to seat the brand new brake pads.
- Take a look at drive the automotive. Pay attention 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 activity that may be accomplished in about an hour with the correct instruments. Nevertheless, it is very important observe the security directions rigorously and to seek the advice of a mechanic if you’re not comfy performing the duty.
How lengthy does it take to interchange rear brake pads?
It ought to take about an hour to interchange rear brake pads. Nevertheless, this time might range relying in your expertise and the instruments you could have out there.
How a lot does it price to interchange rear brake pads?
The price of changing rear brake pads will range relying on the make and mannequin of your automotive, in addition to the kind of brake pads you select. Nevertheless, you’ll be able to count on to pay between $100 and $300 for the elements and labor.
