Can Brake Pads Be Replaced by Yourself?
2 Answers
Brake pads can be replaced by yourself, but it requires some time and effort. When you notice that the brake pads have become thinner, the brakes produce unusual noises, the brake pedal feels lighter, or braking becomes less effective, it's time to replace the brake pads. When replacing brake pads, those on the same axle should be replaced together to ensure even braking force on both sides. Below are the steps for replacing brake pads yourself: 1. To replace the brake pads, you need to lift the car and remove the tire; 2. Remove the caliper bolts, open the brake caliper, and take out the old brake pads; 3. Push the brake piston back in, then install the new brake pads; 4. Reinstall the brake caliper, tighten the caliper bolts to the specified torque without over-tightening, then reinstall the tire; 5. After replacing the brake pads, press the brake pedal a few times to eliminate the gap between the brake pads and the brake disc, allowing the brake piston to reset. Then, check if the brake fluid pump is functioning properly. Once confirmed, the brake pad replacement is complete.
Can I change the brake pads myself? I've done it a few times. Prepare basic tools like a jack, wrench, and screwdriver, find a flat spot to park, shift to neutral, and engage the handbrake—safety first. Remove the tire to expose the brake caliper, then unscrew the bolts holding the old brake pads to remove the caliper and replace them with new ones. Don’t forget to apply grease to the slide pins to prevent sticking, and make sure everything is properly aligned when reassembling. After installation, test at low speed, pump the brakes a few times to bed them in, and avoid sudden acceleration. It saves money and builds skills, but don’t get careless—mistakes could lead to brake failure or rotor damage. I usually record the steps or double-check with tutorials. It typically takes 1-2 hours, longer for beginners, but as long as safety is prioritized, it’s manageable.
