Sustaining your car’s braking system is paramount for making certain your security and the longevity of your automobile. One essential facet of this upkeep is changing worn brake pads, notably the rear brake pads. Whereas this job could seem formidable to some, it is a comparatively easy process that even novice DIY lovers can undertake with the fitting instruments and steering. By following the steps outlined on this complete information, you possibly can confidently substitute 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 mandatory instruments and supplies. These embody a set of recent 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 explicit make and mannequin.
With the mandatory instruments at your disposal, rigorously comply with 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. 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 job, it’s essential to assemble the indispensable instruments and supplies essential 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 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 grime or grime from the brake pads and rotors.
- Anti-seize lubricant: To stop corrosion and guarantee clean operation.
- Security glasses: For eye safety.
Moreover, if you must substitute the brake rotors as nicely, you have to new rotors and presumably 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.
- Enable the brakes to chill down earlier than beginning work.
- Put on security glasses and gloves all through the method.
- Don’t try and elevate the car with a single jack; use jack stands for added stability.
- Be cautious when dealing with brake fluid, as it may injury paint and trigger pores and skin irritation.
- Eliminate 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 element that homes the brake pads. Determine the attachment bolts that maintain the caliper in place; these are often 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 injury any surrounding elements.
Some calipers might require further steps to take away, similar 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 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 will likely be thicker than the previous ones.
To compress the caliper piston, you have to a C-clamp or a particular brake caliper compression instrument. If you’re utilizing a C-clamp, make sure you place a chunk of wooden or a rag between the clamp and the piston to stop injury.
Here’s a detailed step-by-step information on find out how 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 totally compressed.
- As soon as the piston is compressed, take away the C-clamp and examine the brake caliper for any injury.
| Tip | Description |
|---|---|
| If you’re having hassle compressing the caliper piston, it’s possible you’ll want to make use of a particular brake caliper compression instrument. | |
| Make sure you clear the caliper piston and the encompassing space earlier than compressing the piston. | |
| If the caliper piston is broken, it is going to should be changed. |
Eradicating the Outdated Brake Pads
Changing your rear brake pads is a comparatively easy job that may be accomplished in about an hour with the fitting instruments and a bit of know-how. Here 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 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 new ones.
Step 2: Increase the Car
Place the car on a stage floor and have interaction the parking brake. Use a jack to boost 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 unfastened, take away the wheels and set them apart.
Step 4: Take away the Brake Caliper
The brake caliper is the metallic housing that accommodates the brake pads. It’s often 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 may 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. 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 scale 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 required torque.
Step 8: Exchange 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 may 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 make it possible for the brakes are working correctly. Make sure you take a look at the brakes at totally different speeds and in numerous driving circumstances.
Cleansing the Caliper and Brake Rotors
Earlier than putting in the brand new brake pads, it is necessary to scrub 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
Look at the brake rotors for any indicators of damage, similar 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
After getting eliminated the previous brake pads, it is time to set up the brand new ones. Here is a step-by-step information on find out 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 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 forestall 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 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’ve got put in the brand new brake pads, you must bleed the brakes to take away any air from the system. Here is an in depth information on find out how to bleed the brakes:
| Step | Motion |
|---|---|
| 1 | Collect your instruments and supplies. You’ll need 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 often 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 | High off the brake fluid reservoir and substitute the cap. |
Reinstalling the Caliper
7. Reattaching the Caliper
That is the step the place you have to to be very cautious to not injury any of the elements concerned. First, test the situation of the caliper mounting bolts and substitute them if essential. 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 may assist to stop 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.
Make certain the caliper is pushed all the best way onto the bracket and the bolts are totally tightened. The caliper must be securely in place and there shouldn’t be any extreme motion. Double test 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 which will have entered the system through the brake pad alternative course of. Air within the braking system can result in spongy pedals and diminished braking effectivity.
Step 8: Bleeding the Rear Brake Calipers
For rear brake calipers with two bleed screws (one on the prime and one on the backside), comply with 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 totally 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, prime 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 car. |
| Hold the grasp cylinder reservoir topped up through 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 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 won’t 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 way of the caliper openings. The pads ought to have not less than 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 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 harm, similar to deep grooves, scoring, or warping. If the rotors are closely worn or broken, they could should be resurfaced or changed. Resurfacing entails eradicating a skinny layer of metallic from the floor of the rotor to create a clean, flat floor for the brand new brake pads to mattress in correctly.
Brake Fluid Degree Test
With the wheels eliminated, find the brake fluid reservoir underneath the hood of the car. Test the fluid stage and prime it off with the advisable kind of brake fluid if essential. 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 harm, similar to leaks, cracks, or corrosion. Be sure that the caliper pistons transfer easily and retract totally when not engaged. Sticking calipers may cause uneven brake pad put on and diminished 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. 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! Interact 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 injury 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 removing instrument to pry them unfastened.
Step 5: Cleansing and Inspecting Parts
Completely clear the caliper bracket, caliper piston, and rotor floor with brake cleaner to take away any grime or particles. Examine the elements for any indicators of harm, corrosion, or uneven put on. If essential, substitute 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 totally 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 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 sequence 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, test the brake fluid stage within the grasp cylinder. Brake pad alternative may cause the fluid stage to drop barely. If essential, prime it up with the suitable brake fluid, making certain it is on the specified stage.
| Software Record |
|---|
| Socket or wrench set |
| Caliper mounting bolts |
| Flathead screwdriver or brake pad removing instrument |
| Brake cleaner |
| Brake lubricant |
| Torque wrench |
The right way to Exchange Rear Brake Pads
Changing rear brake pads is a comparatively easy job that may be accomplished in about an hour with the fitting instruments. Listed below are the steps on find out how to do it:
- Collect your instruments. You’ll need a jack, jack stands, a lug wrench, a C-clamp, and a brand new set of brake pads.
- Security first! Park your automobile 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 automobile. 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 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 may forestall them from squealing.
- Set up the brand new brake pads. Make certain 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 automobile. Take away the jack stands.
- Pump the brake pedal a number of instances. This may assist to seat the brand new brake pads.
- Take a look at drive the automobile. Hear for any uncommon noises or vibrations.
Individuals Additionally Ask
Can I substitute rear brake pads myself?
Sure, changing rear brake pads is a comparatively easy job that may be accomplished in about an hour with the fitting instruments. Nevertheless, you will need to comply with the security 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. Nevertheless, this time might fluctuate relying in your expertise and the instruments you’ve got accessible.
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 automobile, in addition to the kind of brake pads you select. Nevertheless, you possibly can count on to pay between $100 and $300 for the elements and labor.
