How to Use Ceramic Brake Pads
Although they tend to be more expensive, ceramic brake pads often prove well worth the investment. The pads themselves can be installed and used in exactly the same manner as semi-metallic pads. The difference between ceramic and conventional brake pads, however, is in performance. Ceramic pads offer a reduction in unsightly brake dust accumulating on your vehicle's wheels as well as a reduction in brake noise. Perhaps most importantly, though, ceramic brake pads last longer than their metallic counterparts.
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Things You'll Need
- Correct-sized wrenches or sockets
- Jack
- Jack stand
- Lug wrench
- C-clamp
- Brake fluid (optional)
Instructions
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1
Ask specifically for ceramic brake pads when purchasing replacement brake pads for your vehicle. Ceramic pads are now made to fit many different models of cars and trucks. Even if your vehicle was previously equipped with metallic pads, you should be able to upgrade to ceramic.
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2
Lift your vehicle using a jack and secure it by placing a jack stand under the frame. With the vehicle lifted, remove the wheel to access the brakes. Remember to open the hood and remove the cap from the master cylinder as well.
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3
Inspect the brake assembly. If the rotor is unevenly worn or has deep grooves, it should be replaced or resurfaced. Also look at the caliper. You should see two bolts on the back of the caliper: one near the top and one near the bottom. The exact brake assembly setup will depend on the year, make and model of your vehicle.
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4
Loosen and remove the two bolts located on the back of the caliper. You will need the appropriate-sized socket or wrench in order to remove the bolts.
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Examine how your old brake pads are installed in the mounting bracket before removing them.
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Install the new ceramic brake pads in the same position as the old pads. The ceramic pads will mount in exactly the same manner.
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Compress the caliper piston using a C-clamp. Place an old brake pad between the head of the piston and the clamp. This will prevent any damage to the piston. Continue tightening the clamp until the piston has been fully compressed then remove the clamp and old pad.
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Reattach the caliper and tighten both bolts. Replace the wheel and tighten the lug nuts. Lower the vehicle and jack it up on the other side. You must place ceramic pads on both the left and right sides of a disc brake system.
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Check the brake fluid in the master cylinder and refill if necessary. Replace the master cylinder cap and start your vehicle. Pump the brakes until you feel the pressure build up in the pedal.
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Tips & Warnings
If you own a large truck or SUV originally equipped with semi-metallic brake pads, you should not switch to ceramic pads. Semi-metallic pads are better able to handle the heavy loads and high temperatures associated with larger vehicles.
