How to Replace ABS Disc Brake Pads

Disc brake pad replacement is the same for ABS and non-ABS disc brakes.

One of the biggest advances in automotive brake technology is the advent of the anti-lock braking system, or ABS. In simple terms, this consists of speed sensors at each rotating wheel and a control module that monitors these sensors and controls the braking action of each wheel as required so that no wheel locks up during braking. This improves braking effectiveness because the brakes acting on a rotating wheel will stop the vehicle faster than the rubber tires skidding when the wheels lock up. The speed sensors are normally located on the wheel hubs, and because the disc brake pads are located within the stationary brake calipers there is no difference in disc pad replacement procedures for ABS and non-ABS disc brakes.

Things You'll Need

• Wheel blocks
• Lug nut wrench
• Car jack
• Safety stand
• Screw drivers
• Wrenches
• Pliers
• Large C-clamp
• Large channel lock pliers
• Brake cleaning fluid
• Brake grease

Instructions

1. Park the car on a firm and level surface. Put automatic transmissions in park and put manual transmissions in first or reverse gear. Set the emergency brake, or if working on the rear wheel of a car where the emergency brake is incorporated into the rear brake calipers, leave the emergency brake off. When working on a front brake securely block both rear wheels, and when working on a rear brake securely block both front wheels. Loosen the lug nuts about one full turn each, jack up the car, and support the car securely on a safety stand. Finish removing the lug nuts and pull the wheel off.

2. Remove the lower-most of the two caliper bolts. Rotate the caliper upward around the uppermost caliper bolt until the caliper and brake pads clear the disc. Use a bungee cord or piece of cord to secure the caliper in this upward position. Be careful not to damage the caliper flexible brake hose.

3. Remove any brake pad retaining clips. Some clip types can be pried off with a screw driver while others can be pulled off with pliers. Take care not to damage the clips so that they can be reused. Slide the old pads and shims out of the caliper.

4. Hook a large C-clamp over the back of the caliper and place the clamp spindle end against the piston face. Tighten the clamp to force the piston back into the cylinder. Larger vehicles might have two pistons on front brake calipers. In this case, perform the procedure on the second piston as well. Be careful not to damage the piston seals.

   For rear brakes that have the emergency brake incorporated into the rear brake calipers, hook a large C-clamp over the back of the caliper and position the clamp spindle swivel on the piston face. Put firm pressure on the piston by tightening the clamp, but do not try to push the piston back. Grip the piston with large channel lock pliers and rotate the piston clockwise to move it back into the cylinder. Maintain backward pressure on the piston by tightening the C-clamp after every piston rotation. Be careful not to damage the piston seal.

5. Reverse the steps to reassemble the brake with new brake pads and shims. Clean the caliper bolts with brake cleaning fluid and then lubricate them liberally with brake grease before securing the caliper. Replace the wheel and lower the vehicle. Test the brake operation before driving.

References

• Edmunds: How to Change Your Brake Pads
• PartSource: How to Replace Brakes
• Autos.com: Brake Maintenance