How to Change Brake Pads: The Ultimate Guide for Cars
Did you know that you should have your brakes inspected every time you get your car’s oil changed? It’s a good idea to make sure your car’s brakes are in proper working order for any car older than two years. This is for the safety of you and the longevity of your car.
When it comes to changing your car’s brake pads, there are certain things to know. Check out this guide on how to change brake pads.
Why Change Your Brake Pads
So why should you try to change your brake pads at home anyway? It saves you money. Getting your brakes replaced can cost around $250 for parts and labor. If you change your brakes at home you will save on costs.
Brake pads should last between 20,000 and 40,000 miles. If you are hearing a squeaking noise from your brakes that is a sign they should be repaired. If you don’t fix your brakes, your car will likely face a significant decrease in the power to stop.
Change your brakes when they need to be repaired. Safety always comes first.
What You Will Need for Changing Brakes
Once you decide to change your own brake pads, you’ll need to purchase a few items. Consider buying performance brake pads as a replacement for your current old brake pads. You’ll also need:
- Brake fluid
- New brake pads
- A mechanism to lift your car like a jack
- Wrench
- C-clamp
- Bungee cord
- Car owner’s manual
It’s a good idea to also have gloves to protect your hands and a drip pan for anything that may spill. You will also need the basic tools required for changing a tire because the tires will need to be removed to replace the brake pads.
How to Change Brake Pads
Now that you have all of your tools, you are ready to learn how to change brake pads. These are the steps for changing your own brakes:
- Jack up the car and take off tires
- Move the caliper out of the way
- Take off the old brake pads
- Sitch out the retaining clips
- Slide in the new brake pads
- Use the caliper to retract the pistons
- Examine the brake fluid level
- Put the caliper back into place
Replace your brakes fully on one side of the car and then proceed to the other side of the car.
You’ll start by raising the car using your jack and removing all lugnuts and wheels. Next, you’ll need to pivot the caliper and remove the old brake pads. While doing this, check the level of brake fluid.
You will now need to replace the brake pads with the new ones you have selected. Once your brakes have been switched out you will need to put all of the wheels back onto the car.
Change Brake Pads Today
Now that you have learned how to change brake pads, it’s time to get started. Don’t delay your car repairs! Get ready to change your brake pads today.
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