Step 1: Gather the necessary tools
Before you start changing the brake pads, you need to gather the necessary tools. You will need a lug wrench, a jack, jack stands, a C-clamp, a brake cleaner, and a new set of brake pads. Make sure you have all the tools before you start the process.
Step 2: Loosen the lug nuts
The first step in changing the brake pads is to loosen the lug nuts. Use the lug wrench to turn the lug nuts counterclockwise. Do not remove the lug nuts at this point, just loosen them.
Step 3: Jack up the car
Once the lug nuts are loose, use the jack to lift the car off the ground. Place the jack stands under the car to support it. Make sure the car is stable before you start working on it.
Step 4: Remove the wheel
With the car lifted, you can now remove the wheel. Use the lug wrench to remove the lug nuts. Once the lug nuts are removed, pull the wheel off the car.
Step 5: Remove the brake caliper
With the wheel off, you can now remove the brake caliper. Use a wrench to remove the bolts that hold the caliper in place. Once the bolts are removed, you can pull the caliper off the rotor.
Step 6: Remove the old brake pads
Once the caliper is off, you can remove the old brake pads. Simply pull them out of the caliper.
Step 7: Clean the brake caliper
Before you install the new brake pads, you need to clean the caliper. Use a brake cleaner to remove any dirt or debris from the caliper.
Step 8: Install the new brake pads
With the caliper clean, you can now install the new brake pads. Insert the new brake pads into the caliper.
Step 9: Compress the brake caliper
Once the new brake pads are in place, you need to compress the brake caliper. Use a C-clamp to compress the caliper. This will allow you to fit the caliper over the new brake pads.
Step 10: Reinstall the brake caliper
With the brake caliper compressed, you can now reinstall it. Place the caliper back onto the rotor and tighten the bolts.
Step 11: Reinstall the wheel
With the brake caliper back in place, you can now reinstall the wheel. Place the wheel back onto the car and tighten the lug nuts.
Step 12: Lower the car
Once the wheel is back on the car, you can now lower the car. Use the jack to lower the car to the ground.
Step 13: Tighten the lug nuts
With the car on the ground, you can now tighten the lug nuts. Use the lug wrench to tighten the lug nuts.
Step 14: Repeat the process
Repeat the process on the other wheels. Remember to loosen the lug nuts before you jack up the car.
Step 15: Test the brakes
Once you have changed all the brake pads, you need to test the brakes. Drive the car around the block and test the brakes. Make sure they are working correctly.
FAQs about how to change brake pad:
Q: How often should I change my brake pads?
A: You should change your brake pads every 50,000 miles or when they start to make noise.
Q: Can I change my brake pads myself?
A: Yes, you can change your brake pads yourself if you have the necessary tools and knowledge.
Q: How long does it take to change brake pads?
A: It takes about an hour to change the brake pads on all four wheels.
Conclusion
Changing brake pads is an essential part of maintaining your car’s braking system. With the steps outlined in this article, you can change the brake pads yourself and save money on expensive repairs. Always remember to test the brakes after changing the brake pads to ensure they are working correctly.