Replace Front Brake Pads

Step-by-step

1. 1

   Loosen lugs and lift

   Break the front lug nuts loose, then jack up the car and support it on jack stands. Remove the wheels.

2. 2

   Remove caliper bolts

   Locate the two caliper slider bolts on the back of the caliper. Unscrew both with a socket.

3. 3

   Hang the caliper

   Lift the caliper off the rotor. Use a bungee or wire to hang it from the suspension — never let it hang by the brake hose.

4. 4

   Slide out old pads

   The old pads slide out of the bracket. Note the position of any shims or clips.

5. 5

   Compress the piston

   Place an old pad over the caliper piston and use a C-clamp to slowly push the piston back into its bore. This makes room for the thicker new pads.

6. 6

   Install new pads

   Drop the new pads into the bracket in the same position as the old ones. Apply brake grease to contact points — never on the friction surface.

7. 7

   Reinstall caliper

   Slide the caliper back over the new pads and torque the slider bolts to spec (check your manual).

8. 8

   Pump and bed-in

   Reinstall wheels, lower the car. Before driving, pump the brake pedal until firm. Then drive slowly and perform 5–6 moderate stops from 30 mph to bed in the pads.