How to Change the Disc Brakes on a Toyota 2006 Camry

Changing the brake pads on the Toyota Camry is an easy procedure that you can complete in your driveway. This eliminates the need to take the car to a repair shop and pay high labor rates. Each wheel will take you about 30 minutes to complete. The brake pads wear as they make contact with the rotors to slow and stop your Camry. The resulting friction is what causes the brake pads to wear. While you are changing the brake pads, inspect the rotors to be sure they are in good condition as well.

Instructions

1

Open the engine compartment and siphon half of the brake fluid from the master cylinder. Place the fluid in the drain pan for recycling. Place the wheel chocks behind the rear wheels of the Camry. Raise the car with the jack. Place a jack stand under the Camry and raise it to the frame. Remove the lug nuts with the lug wrench and take the wheel off the car.

2

Loosen the caliper retaining pins with the socket and ratchet. Pull the caliper from the cradle. Remove the brake pads, backing plates and shims from the caliper. Use a wire brush to clean the caliper thoroughly. Insert the piston tool and tighten it until the caliper piston seats itself inside the caliper housing.

3

Install the backing plates and then the brake pads in the caliper. Place the anti-squeal shims behind the brake pads. Place the caliper into the cradle and push it onto the rotor. Tighten the bolts with the socket and ratchet. Place the wheel back on the Camry and tighten the bolts with the lug wrench. Remove the jack stand from under the car. Lower the vehicle to the ground. Repeat the procedure on the other wheel.

4

Add brake fluid as necessary to bring the fluid in the master cylinder to the proper level. Pump the brakes several times until the pedal is firm and the brake pads are against the rotors.