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How to Change Brakes on a Car

• Before you begin, always make sure you're vehicle is safely suspended on jack stands.
• Remove the tire from the vehicle.
• Remove the bolts for the spindles.
• Remove the two bolts that mount the caliper to the hub assembly.
• Although we have not shown it here, after removing the old brake pads, you will need to push the piston back into the caliper using a c-clamp or pliers.
• It is very important to clean up where the brake pads sit.
• Make sure there is no rust or anything that binds them from moving back and forth during the application of the brakes.
• In this video, we used a 90-degree disk sander. At home, you can use a file.
• Be sure not to remove any unnecessary metal.
• Apply an anti-corrosion compound.
• Next is the sliders. Always take them out and re-lube them to make sure they move nice and smoothly within the caliper housing. Failure to do so will cause uneven braking and premature, uneven pad wear.
• Put the rotor back onto the hub assembly. You may find it easier to put a nut on to hold it in place while you're doing your other work.
• Remount the caliper bracket.
• Put the new brake pads into place.
• Fit the caliper back onto the rotor. Make sure your brake pads are properly placed.
• Tighten these bolts by hand first. Afterward, make sure to tighten them down to proper specifications.
• When tightening the wheel, go in a star pattern. This will ensure that equal pressure is placed on the rotor.
• Always test drive your vehicle. Remember to give yourself added braking distance. New brake pads tend to glide for the first fifty to a hundred kilometers before they are broken in.
• WARNING: Do not attempt any automotive repairs without having proper experience or without consulting a licensed technician.