How to Replace the Brake Pads on a 2002 Acura TL Type-S

Changing the brake pads on the Acura TL Type-S is not too challenging a job, which should take you about half an hour for each wheel and can be done in your driveway or garage. The brake pads work together with the rotors to create friction that slows and stops the Acura. It's this friction that wears out the brake pads and the rotors, although the rotors wear out at a much slower rate. You can use this procedure on both front and rear wheels.

Instructions

1

Open the engine compartment and siphon 2/3 of the brake fluid from the master cylinder using the turkey baster. Put the fluid in the drain pan for recycling. Place the wheel chocks behind the rear wheels of the Acura. Raise the vehicle with the jack. Place a jack stand under the Acura near the jacking point and raise it to the frame. Remove the lug nuts with the lug wrench and remove the wheel.

2

Loosen the bottom bolt on the brake caliper with the socket and ratchet. Pivot the brake caliper up off the rotor. Remove the brake pads and shims from the caliper. Check the rotor for cracking or other damage. If damage is present, you will need to replace the rotors as well. Push the piston into the caliper housing using the piston tool.

3

Place the new brake pads in the brake caliper. Install the brake pad shims behind the brake pads. Push the caliper down on the rotor. Tighten the bolt with the socket and ratchet. Replace the wheel on the Acura and tighten the lug nuts with the lug wrench.

4

Remove the jack stand from under the car. Lower the Acura to the ground. Repeat the process on the other wheel. Add brake fluid to the wheel cylinder to bring it to the proper level. Pump the brakes until the pedal is firm to seat the brake pads on the rotors.