Can I Replace Brake Pads Myself?
2 Answers
You can replace car brake pads yourself. Here is the relevant information: 1. Tool Preparation: Replacing brake pads requires tools such as a jack, appropriate socket wrenches, box-end wrenches, screwdrivers, sandpaper, and lubricating grease. Some tools are usually provided with the vehicle, such as the jack and the cross socket for removing tires. 2. Operation Method: Loosen the fastening bolts of all wheels by half a turn; there is no need to completely unscrew them. Before lifting the vehicle, it is easier to loosen the wheel bolts using the friction between the tire and the ground. There is usually a palm-sized raised rubber pad at the lifting position of the vehicle, which can be easily felt by hand. You only need to lift the vehicle until the wheel that needs the brake pads replaced is slightly off the ground.
I changed my brake pads by myself recently, and honestly, it was quite challenging. Before starting, you need to prepare a full set of tools, including a jack, socket wrench, and a special piston retraction tool. Remember to park the car securely, engage the handbrake, loosen the wheel bolts before lifting the car with the jack. When removing the caliper, be extra careful not to damage the brake hose. The old brake pads must be cleaned thoroughly, removing any rust from the slots. The most critical part is pushing the piston back—you must use a professional tool to apply even force, otherwise the caliper could seize. After replacement, you need to pump the brake pedal several times to reset the piston. During the road test, gradually increase speed and gently apply the brakes for proper bedding-in. The whole process took me two hours, and I even scraped off some skin. Although I saved about a hundred bucks in labor costs, I wouldn’t recommend beginners to attempt this lightly. Improper installation could lead to brake noise at best, or uneven braking force at worst.
