Change a Brake Caliper
Brake calipers are the assemblies which squeeze the brake pads against the disc brake rotor to slow a vehicle down when pressure is applied to the brake pedal. These assemblies can fail just like any other part of your car's braking system and may need to be replaced. This article will explain how to change a brake caliper.
Steps
- Gather the proper tools need to replace brake calipers. You won't need a lot, and any tools you don't have can usually be rented at an auto supply shop in your town, so don't go out and buy these until you know you need them:
- Socket set
- Brake line wrench
- Drop light
- Screwdrivers
- Needlenose pliers
- Torque Wrench
- Gloves and goggles
- Brake fluid
- Car jack
- Service manual
- Loosen the lug nuts on the wheel for the caliper you'll be replacing.Don't loosen the nuts completely; about half a turn should do it.
- Use a jack to carefully lift your car off the ground, then support it with jack stands and wheel blocks. Ensure the jack is positioned correctly in a safe position under your car, then add jack stands and wheel blocks to keep the car secure. Never work under a car with just the hydraulic jack. It is not strong or stable enough.
- Refer to your owner's manual for lifting points if you are unsure where to place the jack.
- Remove the lug nuts or bolts completely from studs and remove the front tires. Turn the wheel to the proper position to where the caliper may be accessed easily.
- Compress the caliper piston completely into the bore with a C-clamp or piston retracting tool.
- Be sure to have an oil pan to catch any excess brake fluid. Remove the retaining bolts that hold the caliper's brake hose in place to allow movement with a wrench.
- Some cars may have clips in place of the bolts. Use the edge of a Phillips or flathead screwdriver to pry open the clips. Throw away the old brass or copper washers. Never reuse old washers.
- Insert a small rubber plug into the hose or use a bolt, 2 washers and a nut on Banjo fittings to minimize fluid loss and contaminants from entering the system. Never clamp or crimp a brake line, as it can be damaged and this would result in brake failure, possibly causing an accident or worse.
- Loosen and remove the caliper fitting with a wrench. The fitting shown is also known as a "banjo" fitting.
- Remove the caliper mounting bolts with a wrench, be sure to save these bolts as you may need to reuse them. Some vehicles have 2 bolts, while others may only have one to take out.
- Lift the caliper up until it clears the rotor and then slide it off. Carefully remove the brake pads from the caliper. Try to avoid dropping brake pads as it can cause serious damage.
- Inspect the caliper supports for rusting or corrosion that would interfere with the new caliper. If there is any corrosion or interference be sure to remove before new caliper installation.
- If provided or recommended by the manufacturer, lubricate the BACK of the brake pads, mounting bushings and sleeves with the recommended grease. Place the brake pads into the new caliper if they are not preloaded. Do not apply grease to the side of the brake pad that is in contact with the rotor.
- Carefully slide the brake pad and caliper assembly over the rotor. Install new mounting bolts (if supplied) if not reuse the bolts you removed and tighten to your vehicle's specifications. You might need a torque wrench to do this. Be sure not to over tourque.
- Reconnect the caliper hose with the caliper (banjo) fitting and new washers. Torque to your vehicle specifications.
- Remove the plug from the hose and use a wrench or torque wrench to replace the retaining bolts or clips.
- Bleed your brakes until they are firm. Refill with proper DOT specification for you vehicle, any brake fluid that was lost.
- Put the wheels back onto your car. Snug the lug nuts in a star formation. Carefully lower your vehicle back onto the ground. Refer to the owner's manual for the final torque value and tighten with a torque wrench only after the tires are back on the ground. The use of an impact wrench by an untrained person isn't recommended.
- Test the feel of your car's brakes before you travel. if brakes don't feel like they are working properly, contact a certified technician immediately.
Warnings
- Do not clean brake parts with compressed air or grind brake linings, because asbestos dust can be created that can cause respiratory problems.
- Support your car with stands if needed. Serious injury can result from jack failure.
- Make sure you always dispose of fluids, like brake fluid, in a safe and environmental way. Do not
Things You'll Need
- Jack (or jack stands)
- Lug wrench or breaker bar
- Torque wrench
- Hand wrenches (size varies by car)
- Phillips and flat-head screwdrivers
- Needle-nose pliers or rubber plug
- C-clamp or piston retracting tool
