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How to Change Brake Pads on a Car (Step-by-Step Guide)

Car jack

Signs Your Brake Pads Need Replacing

Before starting, look out for:

  • Squealing or grinding noises

  • Longer stopping distances

  • Brake warning light on dashboard

  • Vibration when braking

  • Pads less than 3mm thick

If you’re unsure, it’s always safer to have them inspected properly.


Tools You’ll Need

  • Jack and axle stands

  • Wheel brace

  • Socket set

  • Brake piston wind-back tool (or clamp)

  • New brake pads (correct specification)

  • Brake cleaner

  • Copper grease

⚠️ Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack. Always use axle stands.


Step 1: Safely Lift the Vehicle

  1. Loosen wheel nuts slightly before lifting.

  2. Jack the vehicle at the correct jacking point.

  3. Secure with axle stands.

  4. Remove the wheel.


Step 2: Remove the Brake Calliper

  1. Locate the calliper bolts at the rear.

  2. Remove bolts and carefully lift the calliper off.

  3. Support the calliper — never let it hang by the brake hose.

  4. Slide out the old brake pads.

Check the brake disc for heavy scoring or lip wear — if damaged, it may also need replacing.


Step 3: Wind Back the Brake Piston

Before fitting new pads, the piston must be pushed back:

  • Use a wind-back tool (especially for rear brakes with handbrake mechanisms).

  • Compress slowly and evenly.

⚠️ Some modern vehicles require diagnostic equipment to retract electronic parking brakes.


Step 4: Fit New Brake Pads

  1. Apply a small amount of copper grease to pad backing plates (not friction material).

  2. Insert new pads into the bracket.

  3. Refit the calliper.

  4. Tighten bolts to manufacturer torque settings.


Step 5: Refit Wheel & Test

  1. Refit the wheel and hand-tighten nuts.

  2. Lower the vehicle safely.

  3. Torque wheel nuts correctly.

  4. Pump the brake pedal before driving to build pressure.

Always perform a gentle test drive to bed in the new pads.


When to Call a Professional

Brake systems on modern vehicles can include:

  • Electronic parking brakes

  • Brake pad wear sensors

  • ABS systems

  • Torque-specific safety bolts

Incorrect installation can lead to brake failure.


Need Brake Pads Replaced? We Come to You.

At The Scottish Tech Fleet Support, we carry out professional brake inspections and pad replacements for cars, vans, and fleet vehicles.

We’re available 24 hours for breakdown support, helping keep your vehicles safe and road-ready.

📞 07821056136

 
 
 

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