How Do I Change 997 Brake Pads?

Modern sports and high performance cars all come with four-wheel disc brakes, which use pads to grab a rotor attached to the wheel which, in turn, slows the car. These types of brakes offer superior stopping performance over the old drum-style brakes, but brake pads wear out rather quickly, especially if they're being used to stop a car that can achieve speeds like the Porsche 997. Luckily, replacing brake pads is an easy, at home repair that the auto enthusiast can do in an afternoon.

Instructions

1

Raise the car with a jack and support it on jack stands. Do not attempt to do this with the car simply resting on a hydraulic jack.

2

Remove the wheels with a lug nut wrench.

3

Loosen the bolts holding the brake calipers in place with the appropriate-sized wrench and rotate them away from the rotor. Now would be a good time to inspect the rotors for scoring and warping. If you note any damage or warping, take the rotors to a local brake shop where they can determine whether you need a new rotor or if your rotor simply needs to be resurfaced.

4

Remove the brake pads from either side of the calipers. You may need to use the flat head screwdriver to work them loose.

5

Push the brake pistons back into their open position, flush with the rotor. You should be able to do this with the heel of your hand.

6

Place a liberal amount of brake grease on the back of the new brake pads.

7

Place the pads into the rotors and ensure that they clip firmly into place. Rotate the calipers back into place over the rotor then reinstall the wheels. Lower the car off the jack stands with the jack.