What You’ll Need

Before you get started, you need the right tools. Here's what you'll want to gather:

• A jack and a jack stand
• Lug wrench
• C-clamp or brake caliper tool
• Socket wrench
• New brake pads
• Gloves (things get dirty!)
• Safety glasses

Most of these are at a hardware store or in a well-stocked garage. A quick online search or a how-to video can help explain anything unfamiliar.

Step 1: Safety First

Start by parking your car on a flat surface and turning off the engine. Then, pull the parking brake. Safety is key, especially when working with heavy tools and car parts.

Use the jack to lift the car and place the jack stands under the frame. Never rely on the jack alone. Once your vehicle is lifted and secured, take off the wheel using the lug wrench. Now you’re ready to get started.

Step 2: Remove the Brake Caliper

The brake caliper holds the pads in place. Use your socket wrench to remove the bolts on the caliper. Be careful; it may still be warm if you recently drove your car. Once it's loose, slide the caliper off and rest it on something nearby—like an overturned bucket or a stack of books. Don’t let it hang from the brake line!

Step 3: Take Out the Old Pads

Now you’ll see the brake pads. They should slide right out of the caliper bracket. If they’re stuck, you might need to wiggle them a bit. It’s normal for them to be worn down. That’s why you're changing them!

Take a moment to look at how the old pads are positioned. It’ll help you place the new ones correctly. This step is all about learning. You're doing what a technician at an auto repair job would do—and you're doing it confidently.

Step 4: Install the New Pads

Before installing the new pads, you’ll need to compress the caliper piston. This is where the C-clamp or caliper tool comes in. Carefully press the piston back into the caliper, making space for the new, thicker brake pads.

Once that’s done, slide in the new pads where the old ones were. Make sure they’re snug and sitting right. Double-check your work—this is the part that does the stopping, after all.

Step 5: Put Everything Back

Now that the new pads are in place, it’s time to reattach the caliper. Line it up, slide it over the pads, and screw the bolts back in tightly. Reinstall the wheel and use the lug wrench to tighten the lug nuts.

Lower your car carefully and move on to the next wheel. Repeat all the steps until you’ve changed the pads on all the necessary wheels.

Step 6: Test Your Brakes

Once all your wheels are back on and your tools are cleaned up, take your car for a slow test drive. Press the brakes gently at first. They might feel different, but they should be quiet and smooth.

Still feeling unsure? No shame in swinging by Wrights Car Care to double-check your work. Better safe than sorry!

When to Visit the Pros

If any part of this feels confusing or you’re unsure you did it right, help is always available. A trusted auto repair shop has trained people who do this every day. And they’re good at it. Whether you’re in a rush or want peace of mind, a quick visit could save you time and trouble.

Even though this guide shows you the DIY route, don’t forget that Wrights Car Care is there when you need expert support. They can also handle more complicated problems, like rotors, brake fluid flushes, etc.

Ready to Take Action?

Changing your brake pads can be a great way to learn more about your car and take control of your maintenance. It’s not just about saving money—it’s about understanding what’s going on under the hood (or in this case, behind the wheels).

But if you’re stuck, worried, or not in the mood, Wright's Car Care is always a solid option. Or, you could call up your local auto repair expert and ask for advice.