Have you noticed a screeching noise or does your car pull to one side when you press the brake pedal? Or are your brakes not performing properly? If so, there’s a good chance that your brake pads need to be changed. (See the Champion Trouble Tracer to see a full overview of potential brake pad problems)
Your brakes work by the brake pads pressing against the brake disc, causing friction and slowing or stopping your car. Over time, friction material on the brake pad wears over time until only the back plate remains. As well as the screeching noise, stopping power is reduced, potentially endangering the lives of you, your passengers and other road users.
As a rule of thumb, brake pads last 30,000 to 60,000 km, depending on road conditions, the quality of the brake pad and disc, and your driving style.
Getting started
Before you get started, it’s a good idea to prepare the tools you’ll need for this job. This is likely to include:
Tools:
- Cordless drill
- Socket / ratchet set
- 4-in-1 screwdriver
- C-clamps
- Vinyl tubing
- Anti-rattle clips
- Blue and red thread locker
- Glass jar
- Mechanic’s wire
- Nickle anti-seize
- Polishing pads
- Jacks and jack stands
- Lug nut tyre tool
- Pry bar
Supplies
- Rags
- Wire brush
- Aerosol brake cleaner
- Owner’s manual