Can I replace brake pads by myself?
3 Answers
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.
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.
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.
