Can I replace brake pads by myself?

[VanParker]

Unscrew the brake caliper bolts, lift the brake caliper, and remove the old brake pads. Push the brake piston back in, install the new brake pads, and reattach the brake caliper. You need to press the brake pedal several times to eliminate the gap between the brake pads and the brake disc, allowing the brake piston to reset.

[SanNaomi]

As a car enthusiast who often tinkers with vehicles, changing brake pads isn't a big challenge for me, but it requires caution. The whole process requires preparing tools: a reliable jack, safety stands, wrench sockets, new brake pads, and silicone grease lubricant. The steps are: park on level ground, engage the parking brake, lift the car and secure it with stands, remove the wheel, loosen the caliper bolts, take out the old pads, clean dust and rust, install new pads, lubricate the slide pins and guide pins, reinstall the wheel and torque the bolts. After lowering the car, pump the brakes a few times to initialize them, then drive slowly for 10-20 km to break them in, avoiding sudden braking. Doing it yourself can save one or two hundred yuan in labor costs, with materials costing only a few dozen yuan, but safety comes first—if the caliper isn't aligned or parts are missing, it could lead to brake failure and accidents. It's best to have someone knowledgeable assist you and watch video tutorials in advance to learn the details.

[MacWilliam]

Safety should always be the top priority. While I have some automotive knowledge, the braking system is too critical to casually attempt DIY replacements. Changing brake pads involves disassembling calipers and component alignment – even minor errors can cause uneven braking, overheating, or complete failure, which is extremely dangerous at high speeds. Professional technicians use equipment to inspect ABS and hydraulic systems, whereas individuals often overlook details like brake fluid levels or slide pin maintenance, leading to abnormal noises or uneven wear. Once when helping someone with their car, improperly torqued bolts came loose and the vehicle nearly rolled downhill. While parts may be inexpensive, the safety risks far outweigh any cost savings. I recommend having inspections and replacements done at reputable shops to ensure proper braking distances. Pay attention to warning signs like squealing brakes or spongy pedals for early detection – prevention is key.

[VanElla]

I've been driving for years and occasionally do minor maintenance myself, but I really don't recommend beginners try replacing brake pads. The tool list includes a jack, wrenches, etc., and it's time-consuming, labor-intensive, and messy. The steps may seem simple: jack up the car, remove the wheel, replace the pads, and reassemble, but details like cleaning the caliper seat or bedding in new pads are easy to forget. There are savings to be had—materials cost less than a hundred yuan, saving one or two hundred in labor fees—but buying tools for the first time costs more, and mistakes can lead to rework and extra expenses. After trying it once, I found it too troublesome and now just go to the repair shop; it's done in half an hour and hassle-free. I recommend seeking professional help immediately if you notice any brake abnormalities—it's safer and saves time.

[LaHadley]

From an economic perspective, changing brake pads yourself can indeed save money. I've done the math: a set of new pads costs around 60-70 yuan, while professional service including labor exceeds 300 yuan. DIY saves you 100-200 yuan, but if you lack tools like a jack and need to purchase them, the one-time investment might offset the savings. More importantly, safety costs must be considered—issues like loose bolts causing detachment or incorrect installation leading to brake failure could double repair costs and pose dangers. The best approach is to DIY when you have all the necessary tools or collaborate with an experienced friend for time efficiency. Compared to long-term maintenance, regular brake inspections are more crucial—preventing problems saves money and ensures peace of mind. After careful consideration, I only DIY when safety is guaranteed.