How to Remove Brake Pads

Many of today's cars use disc brakes. However, as with all mechanical devices, they tend to wear out. When this occurs, in order to safely operate the vehicle, the brakes must be replaced. If you have some automotive repair knowledge, removing brakes can be done fairly quickly.

Supplies

• Air impact wrench


• Air compressor


• Floor jack


• Jack stands


• Wrench 


• Socket set


• Screwdrivers

Prepare the Vehicle

1. Park the vehicle on a flat and level surface. Make sure the area is also well lit, and you can easily maneuver around the vehicle.


2. Apply an air impact wrench to loosen the lug nuts on the wheels of the brake pads you're removing.


3. Slide your floor jack under the front of the car and jack it up. If you are working on the front raise the front, if working on the rear, raise the rear of the vehicle.


4. Place jack stands under the vehicle to support the axle.


5. Let the jack down until the car is sitting on the jack stands.


6. Turn the loosened lug nuts with your hand and remove them from the wheel. Pull the tire off of the wheel assembly.

Remove the Pads

1. Remove the bolts from the disc brake assembly unit with your wrench. 


2. Use a screwdriver to separate the pad from the rotor. Once the brake pad is loose, remove it from the assembly by hand.


3. Work carefully so as not to damage the rotor unit during this pad removal process. If damage occurs, not only will the pads need to be replaced but the rotor's will need to be either turned down or replaced, too.