How to Install Brake Pads on a Volvo 740 GL

Taking care of your brakes is one of the most important tasks any Volvo owner can undertake. Worn brake pads represent a safety hazard for both the driver and fellow motorists on the road. In most cases, your brake pads should be replaced when they begin screeching and squealing when the brakes are applied. Changing the pads on the 740 GL should take no more than an hour and a half in ideal conditions.

Instructions

1

Loosen the lug nuts with the lug wrench, and then raise the vehicle with a floor jack. Support the vehicle with jack stands and finish removing the lug nuts. Dismount the wheel to reveal the brake disc.

2

Loosen the two mounting bolts from the brake caliper with a ratchet and socket. Pull the bolts out and lift the caliper off of the brake disc. Hook a bungie cord on a suspension component and hook the other end on the caliper, suspending it in mid-air.

3

Lift the brake pads off of the caliper bracket and remove the retaining clips from the pads themselves. Place an old pad over the caliper piston and use a C-clamp to push the piston back inside of the caliper. Remember to inspect the old pads for signs of uneven wear and inspect the disc rotor for grooves, discoloration and deformation.

4

Attach the retaining clips to the new pads and place the pads in position on the brake caliper bracket. Remove the bungie cord from the caliper and slide the caliper back over the brake disc and pads. Reinsert the two mounting bolts and tighten them with a ratchet and socket.

5

Repeat the procedure with the other wheels. When finished, remount the wheel and hand-tighten the lug nuts. Remove the jack stands and lower the vehicle. Tighten the lug nuts with the lug wrench. Enter the 740 GL and press the brake pedal several times to set the brakes.