Auto Repair
There are several aspects on how to fix brakes so there must be a diagnosis done to determine where the problem exists. The most obvious and easiest repair would be in changing the brake pads. Assure that all tools that are needed are readily available.
Start by placing chocks on the back wheels to prevent any rolling while working on your vehicle. Now loosen but do not remove the lug nuts of the tire where the brake pads will be changed. Usually when one side of the pads are changed it is recommended that both (one on each side) are changed this way you know that your brakes are wearing evenly.
Next, jack up the vehicle on the side that you are in preparation of working on and put the jack stand in place. Slowly lower the vehicle until it rests on the stands. Shake the car a little to ensure that the stands are securely in place. This is extremely important as the jack alone will not be enough to support the vehicles weight in turn preventing injury and is a better safety practice for future reference.
You can now finish removing the loosened lug nuts and remove the tire. Immediate exposure to the rotor, calipers and pads are revealed. Remove the caliper bolts but do not let the caliper hang by the brake lining. This will cause damage and brake failure. Secure the caliper to the suspension component using a bungee cord, a zip tie, or a piece of wire. Make sure that the rotor does not present any deep grooves. If they do you can either resurface or replace it completely.
Loosen the cap of the brake fluid reservoir. Use your c-clamp to push the piston back into the caliper and continue to turn the screw until the new pads are able to fit the caliper and the new pads over the rotor. When the caliper piston is fully retracted you can tighten the reservoir cap. Replace the caliper bolts in the same position they were in before they were removed.
Next, move the caliper back into position on the brake rotor. Make sure its snug and tighten the bolts that hold the caliper in place. Make sure everything is back in place and give the brake pedal a few pumps from inside your car assure the pedal feels right to you. Several pumps to the pedal will help the brakes properly seat themselves into position.
Now you can place your wheel back on, your lug nuts, remove your jack stands and take your vehicle for a test drive. It is easy to replace your brake pads but assuring it functions properly is another. Always refer to your owners manual when in doubt.
