How to Replace the Rear Brake Pads on a 2002 Mazda Protege

Worn brake pads on the 2002 Mazda Protege will emit a squeal to alert the driver that the brakes are in need of replacement. The sound comes from the wear indicators built into the brake pads' surface being exposed. Once exposed, the indicators make contact with the rotors to cause the noise. Replace the brake pads as soon as possible to avoid brake failure due to lack of brake pad material, as well as rotor damage from prolonged gouging from the wear indicators.

Instructions

1

Use a lug wrench to loosen the lug nuts on the rear wheels of the Mazda.

2

Lift the back end of the vehicle with the lifting jack and place jack stands beneath the frame of the Mazda.

3

Remove the lug nuts and rear wheels of the vehicle.

4

Use a 14 mm wrench to remove the caliper slide pins from the rear brake calipers.

5

Lift the caliper from the rotor. Pry the brake pads from either side of the caliper with a flathead screwdriver or other flat pry tool.

6

Place the 4.5 mm Allen wrench into the caliper piston inside the caliper. Turn the wrench clockwise to screw the piston into the side of the caliper. The piston needs to be fully opened to accommodate the new brake pads.

7

Spread a thin layer of brake grease on the back of the new brake pads and clip them to the caliper walls. The metal clips can be fastened to the sides of the caliper by hand.

8

Place the caliper over the rotor and screw in the caliper slide pins with the 14 mm wrench.

9

Place the wheel on the wheel bolts and screw on the lug nuts. Lift the back end of the Mazda with the jack and remove the jack stands. Lower the rear tires back to the ground.

10

Press the brake pedal and hold it down for 10 seconds. Release the pedal and repeat the depression to return the rear caliper piston to the proper starting position.

11

Pull the hood release lever under the dashboard on the driver's side of the vehicle and lift the hood.

12

Remove the master cylinder cap located at the back, right-hand side of the engine compartment.

13

Check the level of brake fluid in the reservoir and add new DOT-3 brake fluid as needed. Replace the master cylinder cap and close the Mazda's hood.