Is it hard 2 change the break pads on ur car?

Question

What kind of "special" tools would I need if i deciede 2 do it? Do I need a "C- clamp"?
FWD, non-turbo, Pls, help.

Answer 1

Id suggest getting a repair manual for your car FIRST and read thouroughly how to do it.
Make sure you have all the proper parts/tools needed BEFORE taking it apart ( nothing worse then having to run back down and get something forgotten).
When getting parts - youll need : your vehicle make, model, engine size, trans ( manual/automatic) ,year.
Now, depending on how bad the rotors are- if the calipers actually still work, ect - will depend on how much youll need to spend.
Me, when i do my brakes - i dont mess around - i replace virtually all of the components - brakes are not something to skimp on ( when you rear end someone cause your brakes fail- guess who's at fault?)

Usally when brake pads are gone, means the rotors had it as well - it isnt worth having it machined, since todays are pretty much a one shot deal.
Now , depending on how old the brake hoses are - its best to change those as well ( nothing like having one 'POP' in a panic situation - been there).

Heres a list id follow:
New front rotors
'Loaded caliper' ( means its a brand new caliper and brake pads in one kit - its cheeper this way)
Flexable front brake hoses/clips
Dot 3 brake fluid ( need some to bleed the brakes)
Bottle of never seize ( good for coating bolts , so wont seize on next time around)
Brake cleaner ( new rotors have a oil film on them- needs to be removed)
Since this is front wheel drive- you wont have the berings in the actual rotor - BUT, its a good time to inspect the CV joints/boots any parts /linkages for wear and change em NOW while its apart.
Tools:
If youre changing the calipers, you wont need a c clamp - youll need fitting wrenches, a socket set - possible a torx head socket (unknown size) depends how its attached.
Heavy duty floor jack
Jack stands ( reccomend 4 of them)
Wheel chok ( so wont roll on you)
Clean rags
level place to work on car ( garage is preferred)

If you dont feel comfortable doing it - take it to a repuitable garage - either way you spend at least a couple hundred bucks.

After the front is done - probably wouldnt hurt to peek at the rear brakes /inspect while at it - and rotate the tires as well.
Its a good weekend project- doing it right.
Another thing to mention - does this have anti lock brakes?
Using a c clamp to push the caliper pistons in can actually back feed the anti lock brake module and wreck it ( if youre salvaging the old calipers) - its best to open the bleeder screws, then push the piston back in- then it wont back feed the module, because then it'll cost ALOT of money for a new one.

Answer 2

Depending on the make and model of your car, the job should not be hard at all. I have done many GM cars, and I'm no expert. A Chilton's or Haynes auto repair manual would be a good thing to have, it will tell you step by step how to do this job, and many other repair jobs. Basic tools are required, I have never needed a C-clamp, but have one around just in case, to compress the piston. Should you decide to replace the brake shoes on the back, do one at a time, that way you can look at the assembled brake to make sure you get the springs, clips and linkage on correctly. If you don't have the tools, Auto Zone, and several other auto parts stores, will loan you the tools you need if you leave a small deposit. Take your time, do the job right, and Good Luck, you can do it.

Answer 3

from time to time, new pads will "kook" the the rust lip on the better and decrease rust groove on the rotors if it hasn't been bumped off. be sure the slide pins are sparkling and lined with guy made brake grease. Bleeding brakes isn't mandatory while changing brake pads except a line or hose has been replaced. If the brake fluid hasn't been flushed and adjusted in the previous 60,000 miles it is going to be achieved. Moisture from the air enters the vent hollow on proper of the grasp cylinder conceal. while that occurs, the boiling factor of the fluid is decreased and the fluid reasons rust and corrosion contained in the brake traces, wheel cylinders and calipers. possibly the grasp-cylinder could be overhauled or replaced after checking wheel cylinder or brake caliper action with the wheels off the vehicle.

Answer 4

The job on most cars is not too complicated. The caliper is held in place by two bolts. Once the pads are removed you have to compress the caliper piston to be able to install the new pads.

Answer 5

I suggest you have it done in a shop first then observe carefully how the mechanics do it. It's really a simple procedure and doesn't require special tools. When you know how to do it ourself, you'll be saving a few dollars each time your brake pads need to be changed.

Answer 6

Brake Pads is a relatively simple process. My suggestion would be to purchase something like a workshop manual for your car (Haynes) comes to mind. If you have one of these it will run you through what needs to be done.
If you have the manual, many things will get far easier.

Answer 7

If your Mechanically inclined just a bit its not hard. Yes it would help if you had a C clamp, more helpful if you have two. good luck with it.

Answer 8

its really not hard.Yes a c-clamp can come in handy.If you have never done it before,I suggest getting someone to help you so you can learn.You could also go to autozone.com and look it up.

Answer 9

get a back up in case you decide you have to back out.autozone.com

Answer 10

it depends on what kind of car you have