Brake Pad Replacement - How To Change Your Brake Pads

What's that squeaking noise every time you step on the brakes? That is the wear indicator designed to be extra annoying so you know that it's time to change your brake pads. You don't have to take your car to the local mechanic or get ripped off by some chain store that's going to try and up-sell you once you drive into the parking lot. You can pick up a set of brake pads for fairly cheap and do them yourself at home. Not only do you save money, you can get out of doing any other housework by saying, "Sorry, babe, I'm busy doing a brake job on the car." Damn, do you sound like a professional or what?

1. It's a good idea to let...        read full caption 1. It's a good idea to let the brakes cool off before you start. Jack the car up, put it on jack stands, and take off the front wheels. Disconnect the battery-just kidding.	2. It helps to turn the steering...        read full caption 2. It helps to turn the steering wheel towards the side you're working on to reach the 14mm bolts on the back holding the caliper to the bracket. Loosen these and pop off the caliper.	3. Pry off the old brake pads...        read full caption 3. Pry off the old brake pads and inspect them. If the pad is thinner than the back plate, you're long overdue for a pad change. If your rotor is warped (steering wheel shakes when you brake) you'll either need to resurface the rotors or buy new ones. If they're in good condition, you can get by without dealing with them to save time and money, though it is recommended.
4. Line up the 14mm bolts...        read full caption 4. Line up the 14mm bolts on the back of the caliper and tighten them. Repeat the same steps for the other side.	5. Slide the new brake pads...        read full caption 5. Slide the new brake pads into the bracket. Usually both sides are the same size and shape, but double check to make sure.	6. Go to the top of the brake...        read full caption 6. Go to the top of the brake system and take the cap off the brake master cylinder. This will allow the fluid to move back up from the lines into the reservoir.
7. Slide the new brake pads...        read full caption 7. Slide the new brake pads into the bracket. Usually both sides are the same size and shape, but double check to make sure.	8. Line up the 14mm bolts...        read full caption 8. Line up the 14mm bolts on the back of the caliper and tighten them. Repeat the same steps for the other side.	9. Before you go speeding...        read full caption 9. Before you go speeding out of your driveway, pump the brake pedal a bunch of times until it gets firm again. Go eat some cheese to celebrate your accomplishment.