How to Change the Brake Pads on a 1996 Acura

There were five Acura models available in 1996. While the Integra was one of the most popular models, the NSX, the RL, the SLX and the TL were also available in coupes and sedans. The different models employed different types of brake pads; however, the procedure to change the brake pads remained standardized. Some of these models also featured rear disc brake pads (instead of drum brakes, which use brake shoes to provide braking power). Brake pads need to be changed periodically to ensure the proper functioning of the vehicle's braking system.

Instructions

1

Use the clean siphon to remove approximately half of the brake fluid from the master cylinder. Replace the cover to the master cylinder and then discard the old brake fluid.

2

Apply the parking brake (if replacing the front pads, but do not apply it if you're replacing the rear pads) and then place a tire block behind one of the rear tires (or in front of one of the front tires, if you're replacing rear brake pads).

3

Use the lug wrench to turn the lug nuts on the wheels on which you are working to replace the brake pads (turn them a half turn counterclockwise).

4

Lift the axle on which you are working to replace the brake pads with a service jack, then place the the Acura onto jack stands.

5

Remove the lug nuts and then remove the wheels.

6

Remove the lower caliper mounting bolt with a metric closed-end wrench (front brake pads) and then pivot the caliper upward. Remove the upper and lower caliper mounting bolts with a metric wrench (rear brake pads) and then rest the caliper on top of the knuckle.

7

Compress the caliper piston inward. Use the C-clamp and the inner brake pad (as a cushion against the piston) to slowly squeeze the piston inward. Use the caliper piston reset tool kit to match up the correct sized adapter and then turn the piston inward in a clockwise motion until it is fully seated in the bore.

8

Remove the brake pads (inner and outer) from the caliper mount.

9

Apply a light coat of synthetic disc brake caliper grease on the upper and lower brake pad clips on the caliper mount.

10

Insert the replacement brake pads (inner and outer) into the caliper mount.

11

Pivot the caliper downward (front brake pads) over the brake pads (or replace the caliper over the rear brake pads) and then lubricate the caliper mounting bolt(s) with the synthetic disc brake caliper grease. Insert the bolt(s) into the caliper and tighten to 28 foot-pounds with a torque wrench and a socket.

12

Repeat the same steps for the other side of the same axle, then replace the tires and lug nuts. Snug the lug nuts to the wheel hubs and then lower the Acura (slowly) to the ground with the service jack after removing the jack stands.

13

Torque the lug nuts in a crisscross pattern to 80 foot-pounds with the torque wrench and a socket.

14

Pump the brake pedal several times to set the brake pads onto the rotors. The brake pedal should feel firm when the pads are seated properly.

15

Top the master cylinder off with brake fluid, if necessary. Replace the cover and then remove the tire block. Release the parking brake, if applicable, and then test-drive the Acura.