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How to Change Brake Pads + Tools You’ll Need for the Job

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Whether you work in a body shop or are a car enthusiast, at some point, you’ll have to change the brake pads. Here are a few beginner tips for those just starting out:

1. 1. Tools Needed:
      1. Break assortment parts
      2. Gloves
      3. Lug wrench
      4. Socket wrench
      5. C-Clamp
      6. Jack
      7. Brake pads
      8. Brake fluid
      9. Retaining clip
   2. Remove the Wheel
      1. Using the lug wrench, loosen lug nuts but don’t remove
      2. Jack up the car
      3. Fully remove the lug nuts from the wheel
      4. Remove wheel
   3. Lift the Caliper
      1. Remove the bolts locking in the caliper
      2. Remove or lift the caliper, revealing the brakes
         1. Do not disconnect any of the brake lines
      3. Check wear and tear on the brake pads
         1. 1/8th or less friction means it’s time to change
   4. Replace the Brake Pads
      1. Old brake pads can easily be removed and the new ones replaced
      2. Replace the old retaining clips with new ones
         1. New brake pads generally come with retaining clips
   5. Replace the Caliper
      1. Once the brake pads are in place, the pistons need to be adjusted for the new brake pads
         1. Use C-Clamp or other tool
      2. Retracting pistons can lead to an increase in brake fluid levels. If so, remove some fluid
      3. Lower or replace the caliper and reinstall the bolts holding it in place
   6. Final Steps
      1. Replace the wheel
      2. Follow the above steps for the other brake pad
   
   
   Resources:
   
   • https://www.edmunds.com/how-to/how-to-change-your-brake-pads.html
   • https://sangsinusa.com/articles/how-to-change-your-brake-pads