Noisy brakes are no fun. No one wants their passengers feeling jumpy or pedestrians and backing anxiously away from the kerb wondering if your vehicle is capable of stopping in time. Here are the straightforward steps to take to change your brake pads and ensure your vehicle will provide that quiet and calm ride, restoring your driving composure.

Before getting started, gather your equipment. You will need: a set of new brake pads recommended for your vehicle, jack, spanner, dial gauge, G clamp, block of wood, length of wire, siphon and empty plastic container. Then follow the simple steps.

1. Remove Brake Fluid

Before raising your vehicle you will need to take out some of the brake fluid in the master cylinder. This allows some room for the fluid that enters the cylinder reservoir when installing new pads.

Use the siphon to remove sufficient fluid until the level is well under the full mark.

2. Take Off the Wheel

Jack up your vehicle to a height where you can work comfortably. Loosen the lug nuts and remove the wheel to provide access to the brake assembly.

3. Check the Brake Assembly

Make a close inspection to locate any other possible wear and tear problems. You should look for signs of fluid or grease leaks around the rotor and callipers. You should also check the rotor for cracks or damage, and ensure that there are no leaks or any deterioration on the flexible hoses

If you find any deterioration or damage, the parts will need replacing.

4. Remove the Brake Pads

Loosen the calliper bolts and remove them. Often it is sufficient to remove the bottom one only. Then, rotate and lift the calliper away from the rotor. To support the calliper and not have it hanging, fasten the wire around it and attach to the vehicle suspension. Pull out the old brake pads from the guide locations in the callipers.

5. Retract the Calliper Piston

You need to replace the calliper piston back into the housing. If you wish, you could purchase a specifically designed pad spreader to make the task a little simpler. If not, you can start by using the G clamp and block of wood to lever the piston back into its position. Make sure to carefully align the mounting pins.

Then, re-install the bolts and ensure they are secured tightly in place. As the piston is replaced, brake fluid is displaced into the master cylinder reservoir. You can then remove the woodblock and clamp.

6. Fit the New Brake Pads

Install the new pads into the callipers and slide the assembly back to align the mounting pins.

7. Refit the Tyre

Remount the wheel and tighten the lug nuts. Repeat the steps of the procedure to work on the other side of the front brakes.

Following these simple steps can save you considerable expense and have your vehicle braking silently once again. However, if you are not mechanically inclined it is wise to have a regular brake service and let professionals such as Mitchell Service Centre take care of it all.

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