How to Replace the Rear Disc Brakes

The rear disc brakes are basically the same on all automobiles, with the primary difference being the location of the brake caliper. Everyone's driving habits are different, so there is no specific interval dictating when the brakes should be changed. Most pads have wear indicators--a piece of steel that is factory set to emit a high-pitched squeal when the pads have worn far enough to require changing. You should inspect the brakes periodically and change them before they are worn enough that they start to damage the rotors (discs).

Instructions

1

Park the vehicle on a level surface and place the wheel chocks in front of the front wheels.

2

Jack the vehicle up using the automobile jack and place a jack stand under the frame near the jacking point. Raise the jack stand as close to the frame as possible.

3

Remove the wheel.

4

Remove the caliper by taking out the caliper guide pins using the proper socket and ratchet. The pins are located on the back side of the caliper.

5

Remove the brake pads by unclipping them from the caliper.

6

Return the caliper piston to the full "in" position. This will vary depending on the model of the vehicle and may be done with a C-clamp by twisting the screw of the clamp in until the piston is seated. On some vehicles you will need a specific tool to twist the piston back into place.

7

Clip the new brake pads into place on the caliper.

8

Reinstall the caliper and tighten the caliper guide pins using the proper socket and ratchet.

9

Replace the wheel and remove the jack stand.

10

Lower the vehicle back to the ground, tighten the lug nuts on the wheel and repeat the process for the other rear wheel.