In general, it’s recommended that you change the brake pads every few thousand miles. You should also have the rotors refreshed from time to time. This can vary depending on how often the vehicle is driven.
Why does it matter to change your brake pads and rotors? Having bad brakes can place you and others in danger. Missing a component in your brakes can cause you to have an accident.
For further explanation on how to change brake pads, keep reading.
Identifying When to Change Brake Pads
Generally, brake pad wear should be inspected whenever performing a routine maintenance check. After removing the wheel, the thickness of the pad should be measured; if it appears to be less than ¼ inch, the brake pads should be changed.
Signs that indicate that you need to change brake pads need changes include squeaking, grinding, and vibrations when engaging the brakes. Wear indicator sensors may also be in place, which outputs a warning noise when brake pads are worn and require changing.
Gathering the Necessary Tools
Before attempting to change the brake pads, it is essential to gather the necessary tools. Individuals should have a jack and jack stands, a socket set and wrenches, a brake cleaner, a flat file, and a torque wrench.
Additional items to have on hand include an emery cloth to scour the rotor surfaces and rubber gloves to ensure that no fingerprints are left on the rotors.
It is important to take the necessary precautions and be careful when working with the brakes. You may also seek assistance from https://www.allcoasttyres.com.au/mechanical-repairs/brake-repairs/.
Removing the Old Pads & Rotors
The first step in changing brake pads is removing the old pads and rotors. First, use a brake spanner to loosen the caliper bolts and remove the caliper from the rotor. Next, use a flat head or Phillips head screwdriver to remove the brake pad clips from the caliper and then remove it from the caliper body.
Carefully pull the old brake pads and rotors out. You may need to use a hammer or flat screwdriver to separate the rotor from the center cap. Once the old pads and rotors are removed, you can begin replacing them with new ones.
Installing the New Pads & Rotors
To install new brake pads and rotors, begin by loosening the lug nuts on the wheel, then raising the car and removing the wheel. The brake pads must be carefully removed from the caliper. The rotor needs to be taken off the hub, ensuring it is properly supported, as this can be a heavy component.
Once the old components have been removed, the new rotor and brake pads must be installed in the caliper. The bolts must be replaced, the caliper secured to the rotor, and then brake line clips reconnected.
Learn How to Change Brake Pads for Your Safety
Learning how to change brake pads is a necessary maintenance task that should not be overlooked. With some basic tools and a bit of elbow grease, you can now safely trust your car to keep slowing down in time.
Don’t wait till it is too late – inspect your brakes today and be sure to have them serviced if needed. Your safety is at stake! Remember, brake maintenance should not be put off.
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