How to change the brakes on your car?

 

Brake Rotors

The first thing you need to do is determine what kind of brakes you have. Lift the car with a Jack and place the car on Jack Stands and remove the tire and look at the brake mechanism. If the mechanism looks like a plate with bolts sticking out of it you will need brake pads.

2

Once you have the correct brake pads for you vehicle remove the caliper from the brake rotor. Most calipers will have two bolts holding the mechanism in place. Remove the bolts to remove the caliper.

3

After you have removed the caliper, the old brake pads should come out with very little effort. Replace the old brake pads with the new brake pads. Once the pads are secure put the caliper on the rotor and replace the bolts to secure the caliper.

4

 

Drum Brakes

If you remove the wheel and there is a what looks like a large metal bowl under the wheel then you will need brake shoes.

5

 

Brake Shoes

Once you have the proper brake shoes for you vehicle remove the brake drum. The brake drum may be difficult to remove at first, but you should be able to pull it off will a little force. If you have trouble removing the brake drum, tap the edges of the drum with a hammer.

6

The brake shoes are held in place with a set of springs. Use a pair of pliers to help you remove the old shoes from the springs. Replace the old brake shoes with the new brake shoes, again using the pliers to assist you with the springs.

7

After the new brake shoes are in place, replace the brake drum. Give the drum a few taps with a hammer to secure the drum.

8
Once the brake mechanism is reassembled, replace the wheel and enjoy your new brakes.