If you’ve ever had to change a rear brake pad on your car, you know it’s not an easy task. In fact, it can be pretty darn tricky. And if it’s not done correctly, you could end up with a nasty mess on your hands. That’s why we wanted to share these tips with you; they will help you change your pads the right way every time. From understanding the anatomy of pads to knowing when to replace them, read on for everything you need to know about changing your brake pads.
What are Rear Brake Pads?
Rear brake pads are responsible for stopping the car from rolling backwards. When the pads wear down, they no longer have enough friction to stop the car. Rear brake pads need to be replaced about every 6 months on average, depending on how much you use your car and how often you stop at red lights.
How to Change Rear Brake Pads
Replace brake pads on your car or truck at least every 4 years. Here’s how to do it:
Remove the wheel. If you have air suspension, remove the air compressor module first. Pull up on the caliper bracket until it pops off (2) and then unscrew the two bolts that hold it in place (3). Remove the caliper. Note: The brake pad thickness may affect how easily you can remove the caliper. On most models, the pad disk will be clamped between a spring and a cam follower. Pry these parts apart with a flathead screwdriver, using a slight twisting motion (4). The retaining clip should come loose after a few twists. If not, use a blunt object to pry it loose until it does. Now pull out the old brake pad and replace it with the new one (5). Reverse procedure to install.
If your car or truck has ABS, don’t forget to disable the system before you start!
What to do if Your Rear Brakes Won’t Work
If you’re experiencing problems with your car’s rear brakes, there are a few things you can do to troubleshoot and fix the issue. Start by checking to see if the brake pads are in good condition. If they’re worn down or have any damage, that could be causing the problem. Next, make sure that the brake lines are connected properly and that there’s no debris or rust blocking them. Lastly, check to see if your parking brake is engaged and whether or not it’s releasing properly.
What to Do if You Can’t Get the Pad Off
If you can’t get the pad off your brake pedal, there are a few things you can do. Some people use a putty knife to pry it off. Others use a screwdriver or a chisel. If that doesn’t work, they may need to take the brake assembly apart to get to the pads.
Conclusion
Brake pads are one of the most important parts of a car’s braking system, and they need to be replaced as part of routine maintenance. If you’re not sure how to change brake pads, or if you’ve forgotten how, read our guide on how to change brake pads and learn the basics of car repairs. From there, you’ll be able to take care of your brakes in no time!