QA

Question: How To Change Brake Pads

Steps for changing your brake pads Remove the wheel. Remove the slider bolt. Pivot the caliper up. Slide out the old brake pads. Replace the retaining clips. Slide in the new brake pads. Retract the pistons. Monitor the brake fluid level.

Can you change brake pads yourself?

If you’re comfortable with doing your own car maintenance, you can take on replacing your own brake pads as a DIY project. As with all auto repairs or upgrades, consult your owner’s manual for specific instructions or special information before you begin.

Is it cheaper to change your own brake pads?

They’ll require that your rotors be resurfaced or replaced, and probably tack on caliper replacement as well. A simple brake pad replacement that should only cost $40 could easily turn into a $500+ brake job. So you are saving possibly $450 every time you replace your own brake pads.

How long does it take to change brake pads by yourself?

If you have experience with basic repair brake pad replacement can be done in 4 hours. Changing front brake pads is simpler than replacing rear disc brakes, and if you have experience doing basic repairs the job will take about 4 hours.

Do you need any tools to change brake pads?

The tools for fixing brakes, especially the ones used for changing your brake pads, are not hard to use. In fact, they can typically be found at any hardware store or auto parts shop. A wrench to remove the caliper bolts — You may need an Allen or Torx wrench for this job, depending on the vehicle.

Do you need to bleed the brakes when changing pads?

YES, the brakes should always be “bled” whenever pads and/or discs are changed. In this instance “bleeding” means the removal from the system of some old brake fluid.

How much should brake pads cost?

Typically, brake pad replacement costs about $150 per axle, or $300 total on average. That’s just a ballpark estimate, though. Costs can range from between $100 to $300 per axle. Cheaper brake pads are made up of composite organic material.

How much does Walmart charge for brake change?

However, Walmart does provide an at-home brake replacement service by Wrench Mobile Mechanic Service starting from $160. Walmart also sells brake pads and service tool kits for sedan and 4X4 models.

How long should brake pads last?

Brake pads generally last between 30,000 and 70,000 miles, but some can last as long as 100,000 miles. There are many factors that account for this wide range. First, brake pads come in a variety of types and compositions and are attached to even more varying brake systems and rotors.

How do you know your brake pads are bad?

Signs You Need New Brake Pads You hear a squealing noise. Picture this: You’re out driving with the radio off and the windows rolled up. You hear a clicking noise. Bringing the car to a stop takes more time than it used to. The nose of your car pulls to one side when you brake. The brake pedal vibrates when pressed.

Is it hard to change brake pads and rotors?

Replacing brake pads and rotors is not a hard or long DIY job. However, this time, it was time consuming. I went to the local parts house, and bought two front rotors and brake pads. I took them home, put her car on jack stands and started taking the old ones off.

What happens if a rotor breaks?

Even the slightest defect on the rotor will cause low-frequency vibrations, known as “judder,” during braking. If you notice this, you should see your mechanic right away. Serious rotor failures can cause a complete wheel lock-up and the driver will lose control of the vehicle.

How long is brake job?

Simple jobs like a brake pad replacement can take anywhere from 15 minutes to an hour. The time it takes for a repair also depends on which type of vehicle you have and what parts the shop has on hand.

Do you need to open brake fluid reservoir when changing brakes?

Yes. Because new brake pads will be thicker so it’ll push fluid back into the resevoir when you push the pistons in to fit them. As such you need the cap off else it’ll over flow.

Does it matter which brake pad goes where?

Most brake pads look similar, so if they are not indicated with an L, it does not matter which side you choose. If marked, the left goes on the outside of the car. You can install it there if the pads you invest in tell you to do so.

What size wrench do I need to change my brake pads?

Hand Tools You at least need a set of 3/8″ (drive size) sockets set with sizes 8-19mm. Some vehicles use Allen or Torx bits for the caliper guide pins. Torx and Allen bits are not interchangeable. The wrong bit may feel like it fits, but it might damage the female head of the bolt.

How much does it cost to get your brake pads changed?

What’s the average cost to replace brake pads? The average cost of parts is between $35 and $150. The average cost of labor is between $80 and $120 per axle. The average brake pad replacement total is between $115 and $300 per axle (parts + labor).