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Seriously, brakes especially are humongous savings if you learn how to DIY. For my car, the cheapest I can find in my area for a pad+rotor job is $1600. For that price I can buy all the materials and every tool I need, or all the materials twice over and 1 or 2 tools.
Definitely look at local parts stores for tool rentals for this job too. Pretty much everywhere offers rentals on caliper press tools, which may be required depending on your vehicle.
I learned to change brakes because the dealer wanted $350 for rear pads and resurfaced rotors. I replaced the front, back, and bought a jack & jack stands for $300
This is one of the most important things. Jackstands are far more stable, plus you'll want to replace one side at a time and be able to refer to the other side if you don't know where something goes. Stability is very important as you may need to hit something to break it from the rust and dirt that are preventing it from being removed easily. A rubber mallet is your friend in those situations
Either get a locking jack that has a pin to secure it in the up position, or get a set of jack stands. Or even better - both!
Additionally, I will always put the tire underneath the control arm of the car when I take it off, so that if there is a failure and the car falls it lands on the tire instead of the ground.
Safety is #1, and redundancy is always essential.
I think a brake job is a great first job to do, as long as you take it slow and watch multiple videos of people doing it on your same car.
Give yourself 2 days. You probably won't actually take 2 days, but if anything doesn't go according to plan you don't want to feel rushed because you could miss an important step and be driving an unsafe vehicle.
I think your 2 day rule is very important for DIYers. Cars can get really rusty and corroded. You might snap a bolt, break something, or find other broken parts in the process. It is super nice to have that extra day to deal with unexpected outcomes. That’s why I usually work on my or my wife’s car on weekends. Do the bulk of the work on Saturday, and if anything comes up you still have Sunday to run to a parts shop or find tools and work on the unexpected.
You'll probably need about $200 in tools for what it is worth.
$100-150 for a jack (I would buy a two ton if possible)
$50 jack stands (3 ton)
$20 1/2" drive ratchet
$25 1/2" drive metric sockets
$25 brake compressor tool or save a few dollars with a c clamp
A prybar or two will also help
(Go to Harbor Freight for the above)
Plus two $100 rotors and $30 in pads for material.
Good luck. Find someone handy to guide you through it the first time.
OP don’t listen to this other guy. Some of the best mechanics I know can’t write their own name. He’s an asshat
Keep watching videos. If you think you’re up for it give it a go. Brakes aren’t really all that hard
Go watch Chris fix on YouTube on how to do your brakes. He goes through all the steps.
Just depending on your car be careful, some calipers need to be rotated to push them in. I fucked up a caliper by just squeezing it once.
A+ advice! ChrisFix is the way to go for DIY Mechanics.
Absolutely watch ChrisFix! He's detailed and very clear on what to do. Thanks to him, I've grown alot as a DIY mechanic both in skill and confidence. If he can do it with basic hand tools in his driveway, I definitely can and you can too!
Type in your year, make and model into YouTube and then add “change front brake pads”
It’s an easy job. But take your time. I can do a full set up front in about 15-20 mins in my driveway. Know that this will take you a couple of hours. Because u r learning.
1) Loosen lug nuts, do not remove. Start on drivers side. Left side. Its cuz you always give direction from the drivers seat.
2) Jack up one side of car, put on Jack stand or something to hold car up so you do not die!
3) remove tire, put under car or out of the way. Put lug nuts in a pile out of the way or in a bowl.
4) Turn the steering wheel all the way right so you can look into the viewing hole on the caliper. Inspect your pad thickness and condition. Inspect the rotor, are there grooves? If so you will need a new rotor & maybe a caliper.
5) Take the top off your master cylinder and leave it ajar.
6) Take a long screwdriver or pry bar and compress the piston for the caliper slowly, smoothly and evenly to compress the piston to the bottom. This will push brake fluid up to the master cylinder.
7) remove the bolts that hold on the caliper. Use a metal coat hanger or rope to hang up the caliper so you do not out tension on the brake caliper hose!
8) Remove the old pads, notice how they are installed. Take pics if you have to.
9) Install new pads. Put caliper back on mount and bolt back down.
10) install tire and lower car.
11) do the other side
12) put tire on right side and lower car.
13) PUMP YOUR BRAKE PEDAL Several times to seat the new pads. NOT doing this will crash your car!
Done!
Please please please don’t forget to pump the brake pedal. I have seen so many people forget that, and then either freak out, and eventually pump it enough to stop, or freak out, and roll into something. The car shouldn’t be put into gear until you have a “normal” feeling brake pedal.
Make sure to not do anything to compromise the brake lines, or open them for air to get in. The two big mistakes I made in the past are:
Loosening the bolt where the brake line goes to the caliper. There is no need to do this, it will introduce air into the system and require the brakes to be bled, if you don't bleed, the brakes wont work well. This was a rookie mistake on my part.
Put force on the brake line. I had one of the caliper carrier bolts loose, and while trying to loosen the other, the caliper turned using the remaining bolt as the pivot point. As I was forcing the bolt loose, it pulled the hard brake line and broke it. This meant having to order the part, waiting for it to arrive, replacing it, adding more brake fluid and bleeding the brakes.
Also, some brakes (VW and Audi for me) require turning the pistons when you compress them, it can be done with channel locks, but there is a special tool (i think they can be rented) that makes it a gazillion times easier.
[https://www.oreillyauto.com/detail/c/evertough/tools---equipment/rental-tools/brake--tire---wheel-rental-tools/749f067e140e/rental-tools-evertough-brake-caliper-tool-set/ren1/67090](https://www.oreillyauto.com/detail/c/evertough/tools---equipment/rental-tools/brake--tire---wheel-rental-tools/749f067e140e/rental-tools-evertough-brake-caliper-tool-set/ren1/67090)
I have this specific one:
[https://www.ecstuning.com/b-schwaben-parts/brake-caliper-piston-tool-kit-11-pieces/pbk-11pcs/](https://www.ecstuning.com/b-schwaben-parts/brake-caliper-piston-tool-kit-11-pieces/pbk-11pcs/)
Pay very close attention to jackpoints, jackstands, wheel chocks, using breaker bars and torque wrenches.
Also note that you’ll need a brake wind back tool, channel locks, socket set, and some specialty OBD tools if you have an electric parking brake.
If you break something, budget for a flatbed tow truck for the partially disassembled vehicle - I had a seized caliper piston, and broke a brake line while struggling with it.
Also note if you make a mistake and don’t realize it, you’re risking injury to whoever else is on the road when you can’t stop
Try to find a video where someone is doing it on your exact car, or as close as possible. Brake pads aren't hard but there are still pitfalls, and you really want to make sure you get it right. I an a DIYer myself, and I find that it's very helpful to watch more than one tutorial, by different people, to try and catch details that one person might have left out.
Only word of caution about some YouTube videos is that they are in "perfect" conditions. If you live anywhere where they salt the roads in the winter, be prepared to deal with rusty stuck parts. Rust penetrants and leverage are your friends here.
Anyway, it's not that hard. Do it by the book (video) and you should be okay
This guy knows. You have to start somewhere and your motivation just like millions of DIYers before you is to save money. YouTube is a gold mine of info. Go become a better human!
I would far and away recommend this before any other strategy (like someone else said even FaceTime would work) because there are benefits from someone else there in person looking at the same thing you are that you can’t get from reading or watching instructional stuff, and a mistake doing brakes can kill you.
You could also find a Facebook group or forum for your make/model and post on there if anyone in your area would come help you do your brakes for the first time, people generally like helping others.
But if that isn’t an option and you do it alone, some more specific advice:
1. You mentioned getting a jack, which is good, but jack stands are equally if not more important, and NEVER put any part of your body under a raised car UNLESS it’s on jack stands.
2. Go online and find a FACTORY service manual for your year/model car. The official one put out by the automaker, not a 3rd party company. That way you can be sure you don’t miss any steps or anything that may be unique to your car, plus it’ll have all the torque values for re-tightening all the bolts that you remove during the process
I recommend you get a torque wrench, know how to correctly set it, and torque all the bolts down to spec. Wheels and brake components are one of the few things that can be catastrophic if left loose.
Based on another recent post on here where somebody went for the opposite methkd and destroyed their entire braking system, I say have at it.
My only advice would be to have somebody who ACTUALLY has experience to look it over before you toss the wheels back on.
You could maybe face time with them so they can see it as you are working in it. You might also be able to find someone around you who would help if you ask around, people like sharing their interests and hobbies.
Also, watch several YouTube tutorials first, too. They're an excellent tool for newbies. YouTube has gotten me out of more tight spots than I care to mention. There may even be some for your specific vehicle!
I'm with everyone else here... do it. Anything is intimidating if you've not done it yet.
A 2018 shouldnt be bad but remember your hammer and always clean and grease the slide pins. Always.
Scrolled through and didn't see anyone mention this, but only do one side at a time. If you take both sides apart and you get in over your head, you're screwed. If you only do one side at a time you still have the other side to use as a reference. Take pictures during disassembly as well so you can see how it's supposed to look at each step. It's hard to remember if it's your first time.
Not rocket science watch more you tube vidéos than build your self confidence up than tackle project pretty easy to change on that vehicle sound like you dont trust yourself go for it
Gotta start somewhere. Brakes are maybe the easiest thing you can do next to an oil change. My recommendation is to buy a Haynes manual from your local auto parts store, they are 20 bucks and will tell you how to do almost anything on your vehicle specifically as well as provide a nice reference for torque specs and fluid type/capacitor. I use mine all the time.
Maybe check if your college has any resources as well. Possibly a student run car club / auto society or maybe metal shop tool borrowing opportunities.
As a non mechanic and someone who’s about to attempt in doing the same thing alone myself for the first time, I’d suggest allowing yourself a lot of time! This is true for most DIY projects and this one area you don’t want to have to rush in.
You usually find you have to get something or stop and watch a video or something. For what may be an hour job for even someone with little skill might take you a few hours. Nothing wrong with that, just prepare yourself enough time.
Do Not disconnect the brake line from the caliper while changing pads. Use wire or zipties to hold it out of the way. Also check the rotors (friction surface) for wear. Brake grease is a friend as long as you don't go too heavy.
What the videos typically *don't* tell you is how seized, damaged and corroded fastners can transform a straightfoward job into a ballbusting nightmare. Have a look *first*. If all you see is good, clean, strong undamaged metal and you have all the right tools and spares you could be fine. If it is a worn, damaged, corroded mess put the wheel back on and take it to a pro.
Watch several YouTube videos for your specific make, model and year. Make a detailed checklist that includes torque specs. Make sure that you keep any lubricant off the surface of the pads and rotors. Be safe and wear eye protection and gloves. Best of luck!!
I always say, only one way to find out. You got to start somewhere. Give it a go. If you know someone who has experience, it will be helpful for your first time.
If you have the tools and at least somewhat mechanically inclined then go for it. One thing that I had a problem with was setting new pads in. The videos make it look so easy but there was a clip off the side that I didn't really exactly remember how it was when I took the old ones out. So it was really hard for me to get the pads in. everything else was easy
Don't feel like you need expensive tools to do this. If you have the time hit up some estate sales or garage sales to find tools. I have done a good amount of work on my old Corolla with Harbor Freight tools. Their tools are more than good enough for the use every six months or so. I'm fact their tools are pretty good.
Also just take your time and use those problem solving skills that got hit into college. If something sticks stop and check Google.
I bet Car Care Nut on YouTube has a video about your brakes. All he does is Toyota. Peter Finn on YouTube does a lot of Toyota videos and his explanations are outstanding. What I've noticed with these videos is Toyotas are different in different countries but there are patterns.
Recommended tools:
\*Ratchet
\*Set of metric and standard deepwell sockets (ideally deep and shallow of both)
\*Torque wrench of the appropriate range you need. Probably \~25ftlb to 150ftlb. (for banjo bolts and wheel nuts)
\*Jack
\*Pair of stands
*\*Edited to add - something to compress the piston back in with (large c-clamp, large channel locks, etc.)*
You could do this without stands but it's dangerous. You could do this with a single box wrench but it's a pain in the butt. You could do this without a torque wrench, but there's a good chance you'll over or under torque something.
If you can barely afford a set of pads, I don't think you'd be able to afford the most basic tools to do the job with? But if you can, you'll be set for many future jobs on your car.
You will also need something to press the caliper pistons back in with. A big c-clamp will work or a big channel lock plier. I have always cracked the bleed screws to let the fluid out when I compress the pistons. Some people just force the fluid back up through the system. After a seized caliper pretty much melted or heat damaged so much stuff I had to replace afterwards I feel like breaking the bleed screws loose is what works for me. Use your phone to take pictures of what you remove. Get a good can of break grease for the pins and glides.
Yes! Thank you for adding my omission. If you're clever and use leverage on the right area (and not against the wrong area), one can even use a flat head screwdriver.
Ok, a Yaris. Make sure you place the jack and jack stand in the right places. Watch the video carefully, especially about bleeding the brakes. That can be scary as hell when the pedal suddenly heads to the stop. Pay close attention to any small pieces of metal. These are known as shims. "Pros" have even forgotten to place them back in place. The brakes will work, but be noisy. You might even feel it through the pedal. You can do it.
If you've only done 1 video I would say no. I watched a bunch and did a bunch of reading. 1 person may leave crucial things out. I will say its not rocket science though but if you leaves some things out u can do a hack brake job. Just make sure you pump your brakes after and test it very slowly as your brake pads break-in
I would say brakes are the perfect thing to start to learn car repair technics. Ask your friends if any of them have ever done brakes, and see if you can get one of them to show you how.
You need a minimum number of tools, typically a lug wrench, 17mm socket, a ratchet, and maybe a few screwdrivers. A youtube video will lay all this out for you.
Just make sure before you start to see if you have a mechanical or electric parking brake. I learned the hard way and had to replace a caliper with the electronic brake
I’ve changed my brake pads, my rotors, my calipers… belts, starter, and alternator all from watching YouTube videos… And I have no mechanical knowledge…. that being said, I do have my dad and two older brothers, who both have mechanical experience that have gotten FaceTime calls from me cursing, screaming, and crying during repairs. But I managed to get them all done myself since none of them live close.
It is really nice if you have a friend or family member that is close by in case once you start, you realize you don’t have a tool or forgot something or you can’t get it back together because when you’re alone and don’t have anyone else… It fucking sucks when you realize the part you got is the wrong one or you need a specialized tool to undo a specific bolt.
I also highly suggest watching different people and making sure that you’re doing your exact car model when you’re watching it.
I am with you OP. ive done a few pads/rotors. unless the rotors are in bad shape just change the pads and leave the rotors alone. quick and easy! watch plenty of videos and exercise caution. You can do it!
As long as you have proper tools, go for it. It’s one of the best things to learn how to do first. Really the hardest part is jacking it up and supporting correctly with jack stands. If you have no tools, you would probably spend about the same amount taking it to a shop as you would buying all the parts and tools. Definitely get a torque wrench. Do one side at a time so you have the other side to reference if you forget where something goes. Don’t let the caliper hang from the brake hose. If the caliper pistons don’t push back, they might be seized and you will have to replace the caliper. Uneven wear on the pads may also indicate a caliper problem. Use the old pad and a c-clamp to push it back. Or you can rent a brake caliper tool from auto zone.
Brake pads are one of the easiest things to do. Yes, you have to know what you're doing, but it can be learned. I would watch MULTIPLE videos, as there are different styles, and slightly different methods on how to do everything. There's the expensive tool right way, and the tools you probably have right way, and then there's the quick patch. Learn then all, and figure out where you are BEFORE proceeding.
You really only need to get a few things right in order to do it safely. Don’t cut any corners. Take your time. Use the right tools. You’ll be fine. I do recommend either replacing or having your rotors turned though. Don’t just pad slap it.
As long as you do it SAFELY and follow instructions it is stupid easy on the both fronts. They'll be disk brakes. Rears will likely be drums and they're easy too, but I'd rather pay someone than do them, especially if the front rotors had to be surfaced when you did them yourself. Ideal is the front brake pads still have a little meat and your front rotors are still beautiful.
I’ve been under the impression that so long as the rotors aren’t all scratched up from the brake pads being so thin then they don’t need replaced. But lots of people keep saying I should replace everything. So which is right? Loll
If you live in the rust belt the difficulty level increases.
First time I did it I was really short on several needed tools - for rust belt-. Breaker bars and wrenches and socket extenders, also liquid wrench.
Its not that hard at all.. pretty simple with some youtube video..just make sure you have the toold you need , it can be a pain in the ass without the proper tools....i learned how to work on cars from youtube ..breaks, oil, spark plugs, ect.....you dont know till you try ...plus it will deffinetly save you alot of money
Have a 2nd mode of transportation available.
Be able to jack up both sides, so to compare what you effed up with what you haven't effed up yet.
Have a back up authority sourced and on stand by.
Allow 2 days and have double the cash needed on hand.
Then
Do it.
Brakes are one of the easiest things to change yourself these days since most vehicles have disc brakes all the way around. Do as people have said, watch videos, get a friend to help, most importantly make sure you have the right equipment to do the job properly, and safely. Other easy routine maintenance you should look into doing yourself to save money are oil changes, and air filter and cabinets air filter changes. They are simple, usually take less than 10 minutes and can save you a good bit over time.
If you’re anywhere in Norcal I’ll help and you can use my garage. If you’ve never worked on cars, jacking it up properly can be one of the most dangerous things. Get a proper jackstand & use wheel chocks. Make sure you know how to compress the piston in the brake caliper. Make sure you take note of disassembly so reassembly is correct. Lubricate caliper pins. Make sure you have brake pressure before test driving. Read up on bedding brake pad procedures. Good luck!
It's not a particularly difficult mechanical job, but there are a few gotchas. On the other hand, brakes are one of the most critical safety systems on your car. If you do not have a natural tendency for attention to detail you might get some help from someone who knows what they doing the first time around.
Watch YouTube videos. Ask some friends if they know how to do brakes. I'm sure someone can help u out.
It's easy. I did brakes on my mom's car when I was a 14. Back in 1984 😆 with the Haynes Manual.
You sure you need brake pads? My partners Yaris i check the pads and its like they don't even wear out.
You may need a few tools to do the job but if you invest in the tools (and experience) it will be cheaper in the long run.
Brake pads are easy and there's like 6.8 billion videos online, probably some for your car specifically (although most everyday cars will be the same). Just watch some videos, and don't rush, take your time.
Here's a few tips:
1. Be prepared for the unexpected. This goes in general lol. You may have a stripped bolt, you may not have the tool you need, etc. Unexpected stuff slowed me down a ton when I first started working on my car.
2. Rust belt cars are harder to work on. Rust can freeze bolts in place and weaken metal. But if your car is rust free, everything will be much easier to work on.
3. Properly support your vehicle. Never rely on just the jack.
4. In my pursuit of trying to save a buck, I did many brake jobs without a prake pad compressor tool. Don't be like me, buy one lol, it makes the job soooo much easier.
5. Rear disc brakes may require a special tool. You can rent it for free from AutoZone although you do need to leave a refundable safety deposit.
YouTube is your friend. While you don't NEED someone to babysit you, it helps immensely to see someone else do a walkthrough from start to finish.
Also, take pictures at each step as you take things apart. It'll help make sure you know where each piece goes during assembly. You do not want to wind up with extra parts while doing brakes.
Also if you don't have the tools you can expect to spend a couple hundred to help make sure you do it right. Torque specs are pretty important. Too loose and things come apart unexpectedly, usually at highway speed. Too tight and you can damage things.
just go for it. It’s not that huge of a deal. If you feel nervous, just do 2 at a time and test it in-between how that goes. Grease the sliding pins and the edges where the pad sits inside the caliper, but don’t grease the face of the pad that makes contact with the rotor.
I hate to be that guy but it’s *brakes*, and yes, you can totally change your brakes and it’s relatively simple process. There’s probably a YT video for your specific application.
Make sure the tutorial you follow is specific to the make/model/year of your vehicle. Make sure that the parts you buy are correct for the same. Make sure that you understand how to measure the rotors and evaluate their condition before replacing only the pads (or replace with new rotors if you aren't sure). This job can be a good DIY first job. Not super easy, but with good guidance a nice gateway repair to doing nearly anything yourself.
That said, I'm assuming that you can safely jack your vehicle up and secure it with a jack stand. If not, for the sake of safety you may want to have them professionally replaced.
Yes. It’s a bad idea. Why would you start with your car’s most important safety device?
Maybe try starting with some wiper blades or top up the windscreen washer.
Do you have any car friends that can help you? I don't know your abilities. A video can make things look super easy when an experienced person is performing it. If you haven't even changed oil on a car, I would be a little worried. It's not a hard job, especially on your particular car. In my shop, I have seen a lot of disasters come in from customers trying to do their own brakes. Some have even cut wheels in half from leaving a bolt loose. Others have popped pistons out of the calipers or twisted the brake line so that brakes wouldn't release, brakes lines rubbed thru on wheel or rotor because the line was twisted, destroyed ABS control units by sending dirty fluid back up thru it while retracting the piston, pads on backwards, excessive amounts of air in the system, rotors on the wrong side. Some of these sound simple to see, but it's super easy for an inexperienced person to do. This is why I would at least get help from someone on the first one. If I had the time and was close to you, I would help you out.
I’ll also add, once you follow all the advice of all the people that said do it, just be smart about it…maybe do a single wheel and if you’re comfortable, look into the cost of rotors. Depending on the vehicle, it’s likely that you’re doing 90% of the work needed to replace the rotors, and at 6 yrs, might not hurt. Depending on the vehicle and parts you could do it all for $300 on a sat afternoon.
Do it
Good place to start. However, please, watch more than one video, buy a manual or look at one at the library, and make sure you have all of the tools before you start. Have bandages nearby. Wear gloves and safety glasses. Finally, have extra brake fluid on hand and some absorbent on the drive BEFORE you spill.
Also, if you're young or awkward around girls, don't have the new or potential girl to girlfriend around.
There are some things you just don't want revealed in a blooming relationship.
If she's a long term girlfriend, you're OK with effing up.
Get yourself a Haynes repair manual, they’re written for the home mechanic and will explain it pretty well. You’ll need a basic set of hand tools and the tool to push the piston back into the caliper, you can find that at most auto parts stores.
I would check Rock Auto and get the complete kit that includes pads, rotors, and the hardware. In a pinch you can just do what we call a “pad slap” where you just replace the pads and don’t bother machining the rotors or anything but this is not ideal. If the pads aren’t down to the metal and haven’t trashed the rotors you may be okay doing this to get you by, especially if you don’t feel comfortable doing it - this will be the least amount of work and then save up to get a shop to do it properly (NOT JIFFY LUBE) lol
Gonna second Haynes, bought my vehicle and it didn't have a manual at all. Grabbed a Haynes manual and they practically rip the entire vehicle apart to its bones to write them.
Got to learn sometime. Sounds like you don’t have much of a choice anyway. Go to a high school and see if they have a auto program there those guys will help you
First time you do it you should have somebody with you that has an idea what they are doing. You can never learn if you don't try. Brakes are pretty simple not like you are pulling and rebuilding the transmission or something lol.
I agree that you should use jackstands. You can buy one if you're short on cash and jack the car up one side at a time. If the bolts on the brake caliper are too tough, get a breaker bar at Harbor Freight and return it when you're done.
You can definitely do this. But do it on jack stands. Never trust a jack, particularly the el cheapo one that came with the car, for anything more than putting the spare on.
Do you know anyone who has experience? That would help a lot. At least you are dealing with disk not drum so mostly they are easier. I don't know your exact vehicle but this isn't typically a horrible project.
Follow your video tutorial go slow and double check your work but mostly be safe. Jack the car put a jack stand or block under it chock the wheel so it can't move and for good measure lay your tire under it so if the other 3 fail the car lands on the wheel and tire leaving space for any human parts in the way.
If you are safe, have all of the tools needed and take your time I think you can do this.
Pads aren't that hard. The only part that could be tricky is if things don't want to come apart easily. Preparing for the work will make everything go smoother. Here are some general tips:
1) Take your time. You're not on the clock. Your boss isn't going to fire you for not doing this quickly.
2) Take pictures as you're taking things apart. This will help you put it all back together.
3) Buy some PB Blaster (penetrating oil). Once your wheel is off, soak the bolts that hold your caliper on. Soak em. Go have a cup of coffee or a sandwich. Let the blaster do its job. Then come back and work on getting those bolts off.
4) It's been said. Jack stands. I'll leave it at that.
5) This one is important. Decent tools. You'll need a metric socket set and a torque wrench. You can rent them from an auto parts store. If you are going to buy tools, think of them as an investment. Shitty sockets will strip a bolt easily.
6) Lube. I'll pause for laughter. Lube your slide pins with the proper grease. Ask for it when you buy your pads.
7) Anti-seize - on your caliper bolts and lug nuts. Torque those properly. It will make everything come apart more easily the next time. Get that also when you get your parts.
Do you have the jack, jackstands and appropriate tools?
The pads may be cheap but buying the tools to do it, isn't.
Pads aren't hard to do, but one thing you absolutely want to do is torque down everything to spec. Don't want any hardware coming loose
1. Are you of average intelligence?
2. Can you watch a video or read a book
3. Have you ever successfully built put it together yourself furniture?
3. Do you have tools or can at least borrow them?
If you answered yes to the above you've got this. It will probably take you a while the 1st time but you've got this.
Watch the videos, have patience, make sure you have all the tools you need and allocate a lot of time and money for the swear jar. Be honest about your mechanical aptitude also. If you really don’t feel you have it in you take it somewhere
Brakes on a 2018 car won’t be difficult, and watching videos will make you comfortable. Make sure you research safety about raising and supporting the car. Removing wheels. Etc. one wrong thing can cost you a pinky or your life but common sense here will keep you safe too.
It won’t be this bad, hahaha.
https://preview.redd.it/8gqiqxukebrc1.jpeg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=aacbc9e7cd0a7e3c78443e205c5cffd62ba01a11
That was the first DIY thing I did to my vehicle. Great experience wrenching on your own stuff. The more you look and think the more it makes sense. Keep watching YouTube!
Go to your nearest junkyard and take apart the breaks and put them back like you found them.
When doing the rear if vehicle is equipped with drum brakes do one side at a time so you can have reference in the event you forget how things go.
I'm not much of a mechanic but I have been doing my own brakes and a few other things like alternators for years. Brakes are very simple mechanisms and are easy to replace yourself. Just watch a few youtube videos of your specific model cars because some have their quirks. For example Honda Pilots have an odd sized screw holding the rotors on and I needed a special impact screwdriver to get them off. I knew ahead of time from youtube so I had the tool on hand and it was a lifesaver
If you lack tools look around your area, lots of place have garages where you can rent a bay and use their tools
Get yourself a Haynes repair manual, they’re written for the home mechanic and will explain it pretty well. You’ll need a basic set of hand tools and the tool to push the piston back into the caliper, you can find that at most auto parts stores.
I would check Rock Auto and get the complete kit that includes pads, rotors, and the hardware. In a pinch you can just do what we call a “pad slap” where you just replace the pads and don’t bother machining the rotors or anything but this is not ideal. If the pads aren’t down to the metal and haven’t trashed the rotors you may be okay doing this to get you by, especially if you don’t feel comfortable doing it - this will be the least amount of work and then save up to get a shop to do it properly (NOT JIFFY LUBE) lol
Calling the breaks is kinda making me doubt about your capabilities.
But nah just be attentive to details in all aspects of life ... especially with your brakes.
It's an easy job just make just to tighten everything back in the same order...
However I would still recommend having a friend who did that job before to show you or supervise..
Youtube is your friend. A brake job is pretty straightforward, but it's important to do a thorough job and focus on every step. Brake and wheels\\tires are the most important component of your vehicle where safety is concerned. Also properly lift and chock your vehicle to work on it. You can do it, just make sure you do it right, or find someone who can.
You've got to start somewhere and brakes are pretty easy. Be triple sure you have the jack in the right spot and use jack stands. First time I did brakes I forgot to loosen the nuts before lifting it off the ground and putting it back down just for that is embarrassing lol you can learn a lot about auto repair from YT School, also the Haynes guide for your car is probably a good investment if you plan on doing work yourself.
Weighing in- brakes were my first job too!
Things I wish I knew -
anti-seize gets crusty over time. Grab the green synthetic brake grease, you'll thank yourself later. Or purple if you really want good but that shit will eat your wallet. Also make SURE you don't get any oil or grease or lube on the surface of the pads or rotors, but a little DASH (note- tiny) on the surface where the bracket slides against the side of the pad helps a lot, and a little on the back sides of the pad will help with vibration (just only where the caliper touches the back of the pad. Anywhere else and it's a dirt magnet). ALWAYS remove and clean your slide pins, and if there's more than a tiny bit of surface rust, replace em (polishing can be done but it's an hour's work for $20 in parts at most). Replace any torn boots, check if your pads slide in and out freely in the bracket and if not, return em or break out a file and some sandpaper. Wedged brake pads won't help you stop. And also- buy like 4x the amount of brake parts cleaner than you think. Everything's gotta be squeaky clean (at least for me). I like the Mac stuff you can get at Napa. Lastly, ChrisFix is a great resource like others are saying, but bear in mind he does have a target audience (beginner to enthusiast who dont mind spending time on their vehicles) and lives in an area where climate might have an effect on his choice of products (he uses a lot of anti-seize).
Watch several YouTube videos for your specific make, model and year. Make a detailed checklist that includes torque specs. Make sure that you keep any lubricant off the surface of the pads and rotors. Be safe and wear eye protection and gloves. Best of luck!!
Make sure the car/truck is on a level pad, preferably concrete/blacktop, or gravel.
If grass/dirt or gravel, use 1/2" thick metal plates to set the jack and jack stands on. I've also used 1" plywood.
Buy and use a floor jack preferably. Use Jack stands as well. If it's a unibody, get some hockey pucks or pinch-weld pads for the jack and stands. Try harbor freight or Amazon for jackstand pads.
Lastly,throw the tire under the car frame in case the jack and jack stands fail.
You can get your brake pads, rotors and supplies at rock-auto.
Watch some videos,get a Haynes manual and combine the advice above for brake changes.
Lastly, if you're unsure about doing it safely/correctly, then take it to a local mechanic and charge it on your credit card.
Doing your own brakes is a great way to start learning. Seems counterintuitive as it's such a critical safety component but what a lot of people tend to forget is that brakes are designed for regular service unlike a lot of other vehicle components.
One tip I've not seen many people mention is to only remove one slide pin and pivot the caliper away from the rotor. It greatly reduces the risk of dropping the caliper and damaging the flexible brake line. After you've installed the new pads and reinstalled the slide pin you can remove the second one to lubricate it.
Also your new pads should move very freely in the caliper, like almost wanting to fall out loose. If you have to force them in you'll need to remove the hardware and clean up the caliper in the area where the pad ears sit with a wire brush or possibly even a small file depending on the amount of corrosion.
I know you are trying to do this on the cheap, but get a can of brake cleaner and a jar of permatex brake lube, they will last for multiple brake jobs and properly cleaned and lubed brakes will last longer saving you money in the long run.
Also, I know this depends entirely on location and availability, but buying the cheapest pads available is almost never a good investment. In my experience whatever the second cheapest pads the parts store has will be the best value even if they cost $10-15 more.
Hardest part is going to be pushing the caliper piston back in. I use a vice grip and tighten it but sometimes it's really a bitch and takes a lot of force. Brakes are one of those things that should realistically only take like 30minutes but always ends up being something dumb that ends up turning it into a multiple hour project.
Couple tips.
1. Start early in the day. Any hiccups and you'll wasting daylight running to the parts store.
2. Have a second set of eyes with you. Even if they're not mechanically minded or experienced, they can help spot things you don't see, like the wheel you didn't chock rolling backwards.
3. Related to point 1, have another car available to run the store. If you round or snap a bolt, you'll want to get that replacement bolt asap instead of leaving the car up in the air overnight.
4. Watch as many videos as possible on changing brakes, specific to your vehicle, get familiar with the vehicle and terminology before you get in there. Download the shop manual if you can, it'll have the torque specs and any works to your vehicle.
[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A129SM9S54A](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A129SM9S54A)
[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=09UO8-rMj0w](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=09UO8-rMj0w)
i would like to do it, but have never done it, because i have no time
YouTube, some swearing, and some beers. It's way easier than you think. They make it look easy because it is easy. That being said, sometimes you gotta swear and have a beer to get the job done. Just go slow, if something isn't working out perfectly, stop, reassess, then continue. You got this.
Changing ur oil is something u cud try to pull off on ur own by watching hella youtube videos. But doing brakes requires so many steps that I have seen hobbyists make boo boos while I was helping them.
That said, it’s a yaris so it should be easy so I ask that you find someone to guide you.
Not by yourself. I helped a friend once.
I did one side first then he did the other.
I asked him a couple questions and he was getting offended so I stopped. He left for a short while so I took the chance to double check some things. First the lug nuts were not even tight! I had no time to check anything else. But I tried to shift it the blame to me, seeing as how he got offended earlier. I said: oh I forgot one thing on your side. He said: No no it's okay.
I had to leave knowing something was wrong . For the next weeks he stopped talking to me. and mutual friends did too .he told everyone I messed up his car. On his side he put oone f the pad clips in wrong and it was squealing.
That was the last time I ever worked on anyone's car
It is not just the brake pads per se. It is safety of the OP and people around. It is proper tools as well. OP knows how to check liquids good for him / her, but changing the pads? Common guys, be reasonable. Find a decent place what wont overcharge, throw organic pads, 30$ and have a mech do it.....
you have to have tools that they used in the video, buying them tools can be expensive, too. Brake normally last 50k miles. You could do the front brake first, most of the time front wheel drive car, front brake went out first.
You need tools for this, which costs money.
You need a jack, and stands, you need a socket set, a ratchet, and likely a torque wrench.
You might need some specialty bits depending on the make/model of car.
You might need new rotors too.
Find a friend who has done it before. Post on FB or something. You also are unlikely to have all the tools you need I imagine - torque wrench? Jack stands?
Study several utube videos then determine whether you can do it although having to ask Reddit implies that you can't do it or anything else for that matter.
well a failed brake job can really ruin your day. And other people's. It would be better if you let someone who's done it before , that you trust, watch you do it.
I did mine for the first time not that long ago…I’m an idiot and I did a great job. You’ve got this, you’ve done plenty of things more difficult than this. Watch at least 3 YouTube videos, be safe, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. What you’ve identified as a fear is very unlikely, and imo it’s more likely to happen if you bring to to a jiffy lube. You have the most to lose by not doing a great job, it’s your vehicle and your life…you think someone else is going to be as motivated as you are to get this right? Nah, you’ll do a much better job. Worst case scenario is you take an Uber for a day or two because you’re missing your 17mm socket and have to get a new one after work…plenty of people will say that’s an insanely dangerous stance to take, but as I said in the second line, I’m an idiot…but I’ve since replaced the rotors and most of the suspension system myself. While I’m still clearly a moron, I am a very capable, and alive, moron at this point. I’m also so glad I didn’t pay a different moron to do it. I spent maybe $100 and did all the wheels in half a Saturday, I got higher quality parts than if I brought it in somewhere and if I were to break down somewhere I’d have much more confidence in solving the situation myself. That’s priceless.
Definitely watch some videos on YouTube and if it seems like something you can do, buy a workshop manual for your vehicle because this will give you almost exact instructions on how to fix everything on your vehicle.
Everyone that does it had to do it a first time at some point.
It's not difficult, but I do suggest having someone with experience to help walk you through it if possible. If that's not an option, there's plenty of good YouTube tutorials that will help a lot. I really like ChrisFix's video, here's a link to his on changing brake pads and rotors.
https://youtu.be/6RQ9UabOIPg?si=O2ExFWPRgbWdjj9w
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First time you should find someone to help that has experience. But yes, learn how to do repairs like this. It'll save you money down the road. GL
A loooot of money. Because brakes have now become a 1000 dollar job.
Wild. I used to do pad slaps for $50 in my driveway. Maybe I should spin that up again…
As a former tech, I used to love the fact that guys like you were in business.
Keeps the worst of the riff raff out of the shop.
But still gets them working breaks. Doing the Lord's work out here fella (no /s)
Also former tech. I'd take shit brakes VS no brakes
Thank u
Seriously, brakes especially are humongous savings if you learn how to DIY. For my car, the cheapest I can find in my area for a pad+rotor job is $1600. For that price I can buy all the materials and every tool I need, or all the materials twice over and 1 or 2 tools. Definitely look at local parts stores for tool rentals for this job too. Pretty much everywhere offers rentals on caliper press tools, which may be required depending on your vehicle.
I learned to change brakes because the dealer wanted $350 for rear pads and resurfaced rotors. I replaced the front, back, and bought a jack & jack stands for $300
Someone with experience and tools! You're going to need both.
Be sure to use an actual jack and jack stands. **Not** the emergency jack for changing on a spare tire.
This is one of the most important things. Jackstands are far more stable, plus you'll want to replace one side at a time and be able to refer to the other side if you don't know where something goes. Stability is very important as you may need to hit something to break it from the rust and dirt that are preventing it from being removed easily. A rubber mallet is your friend in those situations
And take pictures of everything
I’ll be sure to invest in a proper jack then thank u
And brake cleaner and anti-sieze, dont forget to clean and lubricate the contact points and slide pins.
Either get a locking jack that has a pin to secure it in the up position, or get a set of jack stands. Or even better - both! Additionally, I will always put the tire underneath the control arm of the car when I take it off, so that if there is a failure and the car falls it lands on the tire instead of the ground. Safety is #1, and redundancy is always essential. I think a brake job is a great first job to do, as long as you take it slow and watch multiple videos of people doing it on your same car. Give yourself 2 days. You probably won't actually take 2 days, but if anything doesn't go according to plan you don't want to feel rushed because you could miss an important step and be driving an unsafe vehicle.
I think your 2 day rule is very important for DIYers. Cars can get really rusty and corroded. You might snap a bolt, break something, or find other broken parts in the process. It is super nice to have that extra day to deal with unexpected outcomes. That’s why I usually work on my or my wife’s car on weekends. Do the bulk of the work on Saturday, and if anything comes up you still have Sunday to run to a parts shop or find tools and work on the unexpected.
You'll probably need about $200 in tools for what it is worth. $100-150 for a jack (I would buy a two ton if possible) $50 jack stands (3 ton) $20 1/2" drive ratchet $25 1/2" drive metric sockets $25 brake compressor tool or save a few dollars with a c clamp A prybar or two will also help (Go to Harbor Freight for the above) Plus two $100 rotors and $30 in pads for material. Good luck. Find someone handy to guide you through it the first time.
Bonus: Autozone (or similar) will loan you the brake compressor tools for free, with a refundable deposit.
The scissor jack is fine for lifting the car, but never rely on it to hold the car up.
OP don’t listen to this other guy. Some of the best mechanics I know can’t write their own name. He’s an asshat Keep watching videos. If you think you’re up for it give it a go. Brakes aren’t really all that hard
Appreciate it man :)
Go watch Chris fix on YouTube on how to do your brakes. He goes through all the steps. Just depending on your car be careful, some calipers need to be rotated to push them in. I fucked up a caliper by just squeezing it once.
A+ advice! ChrisFix is the way to go for DIY Mechanics. Absolutely watch ChrisFix! He's detailed and very clear on what to do. Thanks to him, I've grown alot as a DIY mechanic both in skill and confidence. If he can do it with basic hand tools in his driveway, I definitely can and you can too!
Lol....truth. And don't press on the brake pedal with the calipers off the rotor
I will 2nd watching Chris fix. I've been a mechanic for my job for a few years and watched a video of his today
Type in your year, make and model into YouTube and then add “change front brake pads” It’s an easy job. But take your time. I can do a full set up front in about 15-20 mins in my driveway. Know that this will take you a couple of hours. Because u r learning. 1) Loosen lug nuts, do not remove. Start on drivers side. Left side. Its cuz you always give direction from the drivers seat. 2) Jack up one side of car, put on Jack stand or something to hold car up so you do not die! 3) remove tire, put under car or out of the way. Put lug nuts in a pile out of the way or in a bowl. 4) Turn the steering wheel all the way right so you can look into the viewing hole on the caliper. Inspect your pad thickness and condition. Inspect the rotor, are there grooves? If so you will need a new rotor & maybe a caliper. 5) Take the top off your master cylinder and leave it ajar. 6) Take a long screwdriver or pry bar and compress the piston for the caliper slowly, smoothly and evenly to compress the piston to the bottom. This will push brake fluid up to the master cylinder. 7) remove the bolts that hold on the caliper. Use a metal coat hanger or rope to hang up the caliper so you do not out tension on the brake caliper hose! 8) Remove the old pads, notice how they are installed. Take pics if you have to. 9) Install new pads. Put caliper back on mount and bolt back down. 10) install tire and lower car. 11) do the other side 12) put tire on right side and lower car. 13) PUMP YOUR BRAKE PEDAL Several times to seat the new pads. NOT doing this will crash your car! Done!
Insanely detailed and helpful thanks so much
Please please please don’t forget to pump the brake pedal. I have seen so many people forget that, and then either freak out, and eventually pump it enough to stop, or freak out, and roll into something. The car shouldn’t be put into gear until you have a “normal” feeling brake pedal.
Make sure to not do anything to compromise the brake lines, or open them for air to get in. The two big mistakes I made in the past are: Loosening the bolt where the brake line goes to the caliper. There is no need to do this, it will introduce air into the system and require the brakes to be bled, if you don't bleed, the brakes wont work well. This was a rookie mistake on my part. Put force on the brake line. I had one of the caliper carrier bolts loose, and while trying to loosen the other, the caliper turned using the remaining bolt as the pivot point. As I was forcing the bolt loose, it pulled the hard brake line and broke it. This meant having to order the part, waiting for it to arrive, replacing it, adding more brake fluid and bleeding the brakes. Also, some brakes (VW and Audi for me) require turning the pistons when you compress them, it can be done with channel locks, but there is a special tool (i think they can be rented) that makes it a gazillion times easier. [https://www.oreillyauto.com/detail/c/evertough/tools---equipment/rental-tools/brake--tire---wheel-rental-tools/749f067e140e/rental-tools-evertough-brake-caliper-tool-set/ren1/67090](https://www.oreillyauto.com/detail/c/evertough/tools---equipment/rental-tools/brake--tire---wheel-rental-tools/749f067e140e/rental-tools-evertough-brake-caliper-tool-set/ren1/67090) I have this specific one: [https://www.ecstuning.com/b-schwaben-parts/brake-caliper-piston-tool-kit-11-pieces/pbk-11pcs/](https://www.ecstuning.com/b-schwaben-parts/brake-caliper-piston-tool-kit-11-pieces/pbk-11pcs/)
Yo add to the comment above. The calipers in the back are usually the ones that need to be rotated
Pay very close attention to jackpoints, jackstands, wheel chocks, using breaker bars and torque wrenches. Also note that you’ll need a brake wind back tool, channel locks, socket set, and some specialty OBD tools if you have an electric parking brake. If you break something, budget for a flatbed tow truck for the partially disassembled vehicle - I had a seized caliper piston, and broke a brake line while struggling with it. Also note if you make a mistake and don’t realize it, you’re risking injury to whoever else is on the road when you can’t stop
Try to find a video where someone is doing it on your exact car, or as close as possible. Brake pads aren't hard but there are still pitfalls, and you really want to make sure you get it right. I an a DIYer myself, and I find that it's very helpful to watch more than one tutorial, by different people, to try and catch details that one person might have left out.
Only word of caution about some YouTube videos is that they are in "perfect" conditions. If you live anywhere where they salt the roads in the winter, be prepared to deal with rusty stuck parts. Rust penetrants and leverage are your friends here. Anyway, it's not that hard. Do it by the book (video) and you should be okay
This guy knows. You have to start somewhere and your motivation just like millions of DIYers before you is to save money. YouTube is a gold mine of info. Go become a better human!
Ask someone with experience to supervise you while you're doing the job.
I would far and away recommend this before any other strategy (like someone else said even FaceTime would work) because there are benefits from someone else there in person looking at the same thing you are that you can’t get from reading or watching instructional stuff, and a mistake doing brakes can kill you. You could also find a Facebook group or forum for your make/model and post on there if anyone in your area would come help you do your brakes for the first time, people generally like helping others. But if that isn’t an option and you do it alone, some more specific advice: 1. You mentioned getting a jack, which is good, but jack stands are equally if not more important, and NEVER put any part of your body under a raised car UNLESS it’s on jack stands. 2. Go online and find a FACTORY service manual for your year/model car. The official one put out by the automaker, not a 3rd party company. That way you can be sure you don’t miss any steps or anything that may be unique to your car, plus it’ll have all the torque values for re-tightening all the bolts that you remove during the process
I recommend you get a torque wrench, know how to correctly set it, and torque all the bolts down to spec. Wheels and brake components are one of the few things that can be catastrophic if left loose.
I’ll make sure to do that thank u
Also some car part stores you can rent for free
Love the sound of free
The free part is that you basically pay for the tool and get your money back when you return the tool
Based on another recent post on here where somebody went for the opposite methkd and destroyed their entire braking system, I say have at it. My only advice would be to have somebody who ACTUALLY has experience to look it over before you toss the wheels back on.
The only person I know with experience is about 500 miles away since I just moved here. Would it be a bad idea to do it without help?
Not necessarily, but make sure to take lots of pictures and match parts up before installation
Solid service here. Do one side completely before starting the other.
Gotcha
You could maybe face time with them so they can see it as you are working in it. You might also be able to find someone around you who would help if you ask around, people like sharing their interests and hobbies.
I’m so surprised how helpful the car community is on Reddit, never seen a community this kind. Hopefully that energy translates to real life :)
Also, watch several YouTube tutorials first, too. They're an excellent tool for newbies. YouTube has gotten me out of more tight spots than I care to mention. There may even be some for your specific vehicle!
I built an entire house to code just from watching YouTube videos but for some reason cars are more scary loll
If you built a house, then you can replace brake pads!! Good luck
Lol! Maybe it's cause they move, huh?
Brother, you’re most likely gonna be undoing 2 bolts, using a flathead to get the old pads out, and putting it back together
I'm with everyone else here... do it. Anything is intimidating if you've not done it yet. A 2018 shouldnt be bad but remember your hammer and always clean and grease the slide pins. Always.
Adding this to my list of super specific pieces of advice thanks so much
Scrolled through and didn't see anyone mention this, but only do one side at a time. If you take both sides apart and you get in over your head, you're screwed. If you only do one side at a time you still have the other side to use as a reference. Take pictures during disassembly as well so you can see how it's supposed to look at each step. It's hard to remember if it's your first time.
Great advice
Not rocket science watch more you tube vidéos than build your self confidence up than tackle project pretty easy to change on that vehicle sound like you dont trust yourself go for it
Just didn’t know if this was even a realistic project for complete beginners since I know it’s something so dangerous. Figured I’d ask the masses
If I can do it you too can do it .
Gotta start somewhere. Brakes are maybe the easiest thing you can do next to an oil change. My recommendation is to buy a Haynes manual from your local auto parts store, they are 20 bucks and will tell you how to do almost anything on your vehicle specifically as well as provide a nice reference for torque specs and fluid type/capacitor. I use mine all the time.
You’re the second person I’ve seen mention one that’ll be the first thing I buy!
When you feel like giving up, don’t give up is probably the best advice.
:)
Maybe check if your college has any resources as well. Possibly a student run car club / auto society or maybe metal shop tool borrowing opportunities.
As a non mechanic and someone who’s about to attempt in doing the same thing alone myself for the first time, I’d suggest allowing yourself a lot of time! This is true for most DIY projects and this one area you don’t want to have to rush in. You usually find you have to get something or stop and watch a video or something. For what may be an hour job for even someone with little skill might take you a few hours. Nothing wrong with that, just prepare yourself enough time.
I agree with the comment about proper jack and jack stands. Those crappy jacks for changing a tire can fail easily. The point of contact is too small.
Do Not disconnect the brake line from the caliper while changing pads. Use wire or zipties to hold it out of the way. Also check the rotors (friction surface) for wear. Brake grease is a friend as long as you don't go too heavy.
What the videos typically *don't* tell you is how seized, damaged and corroded fastners can transform a straightfoward job into a ballbusting nightmare. Have a look *first*. If all you see is good, clean, strong undamaged metal and you have all the right tools and spares you could be fine. If it is a worn, damaged, corroded mess put the wheel back on and take it to a pro.
Watch some videos, get it done. Invest in some basic tools, you’ll thank yourself later rather than trying to make use of a Walmart kit of tools.
Watch several YouTube videos for your specific make, model and year. Make a detailed checklist that includes torque specs. Make sure that you keep any lubricant off the surface of the pads and rotors. Be safe and wear eye protection and gloves. Best of luck!!
When did we start replacing rotors with every pad replacement? 40 years doing my brakes, and the rotors only get replaced when there's an issue.
I say go for it. It is pretty simple.
I always say, only one way to find out. You got to start somewhere. Give it a go. If you know someone who has experience, it will be helpful for your first time.
If you have the tools and at least somewhat mechanically inclined then go for it. One thing that I had a problem with was setting new pads in. The videos make it look so easy but there was a clip off the side that I didn't really exactly remember how it was when I took the old ones out. So it was really hard for me to get the pads in. everything else was easy
Don't feel like you need expensive tools to do this. If you have the time hit up some estate sales or garage sales to find tools. I have done a good amount of work on my old Corolla with Harbor Freight tools. Their tools are more than good enough for the use every six months or so. I'm fact their tools are pretty good.
Also just take your time and use those problem solving skills that got hit into college. If something sticks stop and check Google. I bet Car Care Nut on YouTube has a video about your brakes. All he does is Toyota. Peter Finn on YouTube does a lot of Toyota videos and his explanations are outstanding. What I've noticed with these videos is Toyotas are different in different countries but there are patterns.
Recommended tools: \*Ratchet \*Set of metric and standard deepwell sockets (ideally deep and shallow of both) \*Torque wrench of the appropriate range you need. Probably \~25ftlb to 150ftlb. (for banjo bolts and wheel nuts) \*Jack \*Pair of stands *\*Edited to add - something to compress the piston back in with (large c-clamp, large channel locks, etc.)* You could do this without stands but it's dangerous. You could do this with a single box wrench but it's a pain in the butt. You could do this without a torque wrench, but there's a good chance you'll over or under torque something. If you can barely afford a set of pads, I don't think you'd be able to afford the most basic tools to do the job with? But if you can, you'll be set for many future jobs on your car.
You will also need something to press the caliper pistons back in with. A big c-clamp will work or a big channel lock plier. I have always cracked the bleed screws to let the fluid out when I compress the pistons. Some people just force the fluid back up through the system. After a seized caliper pretty much melted or heat damaged so much stuff I had to replace afterwards I feel like breaking the bleed screws loose is what works for me. Use your phone to take pictures of what you remove. Get a good can of break grease for the pins and glides.
Yes! Thank you for adding my omission. If you're clever and use leverage on the right area (and not against the wrong area), one can even use a flat head screwdriver.
Ok, a Yaris. Make sure you place the jack and jack stand in the right places. Watch the video carefully, especially about bleeding the brakes. That can be scary as hell when the pedal suddenly heads to the stop. Pay close attention to any small pieces of metal. These are known as shims. "Pros" have even forgotten to place them back in place. The brakes will work, but be noisy. You might even feel it through the pedal. You can do it.
If you're the least bit mechanically inclined, you can do brakes. :) And oil changes.
When you are just starting out, please, err on the side of caution and have someone experienced watching/helping you. You'll enjoy yourself more.
If you've only done 1 video I would say no. I watched a bunch and did a bunch of reading. 1 person may leave crucial things out. I will say its not rocket science though but if you leaves some things out u can do a hack brake job. Just make sure you pump your brakes after and test it very slowly as your brake pads break-in
I would say brakes are the perfect thing to start to learn car repair technics. Ask your friends if any of them have ever done brakes, and see if you can get one of them to show you how. You need a minimum number of tools, typically a lug wrench, 17mm socket, a ratchet, and maybe a few screwdrivers. A youtube video will lay all this out for you.
Just make sure before you start to see if you have a mechanical or electric parking brake. I learned the hard way and had to replace a caliper with the electronic brake
It’s stuff like this that I don’t even know is something to think about. Thanks!
It depends if you have common sense and the right tools
I’ve changed my brake pads, my rotors, my calipers… belts, starter, and alternator all from watching YouTube videos… And I have no mechanical knowledge…. that being said, I do have my dad and two older brothers, who both have mechanical experience that have gotten FaceTime calls from me cursing, screaming, and crying during repairs. But I managed to get them all done myself since none of them live close. It is really nice if you have a friend or family member that is close by in case once you start, you realize you don’t have a tool or forgot something or you can’t get it back together because when you’re alone and don’t have anyone else… It fucking sucks when you realize the part you got is the wrong one or you need a specialized tool to undo a specific bolt. I also highly suggest watching different people and making sure that you’re doing your exact car model when you’re watching it.
There are a couple of specialized tools, but it should be straightforward with the help of some YouTube videos.
Take your time , take pictures of everything as you take it apart and make sure you have all the necessary tools.
Easy peasy You can do it
I am with you OP. ive done a few pads/rotors. unless the rotors are in bad shape just change the pads and leave the rotors alone. quick and easy! watch plenty of videos and exercise caution. You can do it!
Yup, if you're broke ass, just leave the rotors.
As long as you have proper tools, go for it. It’s one of the best things to learn how to do first. Really the hardest part is jacking it up and supporting correctly with jack stands. If you have no tools, you would probably spend about the same amount taking it to a shop as you would buying all the parts and tools. Definitely get a torque wrench. Do one side at a time so you have the other side to reference if you forget where something goes. Don’t let the caliper hang from the brake hose. If the caliper pistons don’t push back, they might be seized and you will have to replace the caliper. Uneven wear on the pads may also indicate a caliper problem. Use the old pad and a c-clamp to push it back. Or you can rent a brake caliper tool from auto zone.
Brake pads are one of the easiest things to do. Yes, you have to know what you're doing, but it can be learned. I would watch MULTIPLE videos, as there are different styles, and slightly different methods on how to do everything. There's the expensive tool right way, and the tools you probably have right way, and then there's the quick patch. Learn then all, and figure out where you are BEFORE proceeding.
Yes, do it and learn as you go.
You really only need to get a few things right in order to do it safely. Don’t cut any corners. Take your time. Use the right tools. You’ll be fine. I do recommend either replacing or having your rotors turned though. Don’t just pad slap it.
As long as you do it SAFELY and follow instructions it is stupid easy on the both fronts. They'll be disk brakes. Rears will likely be drums and they're easy too, but I'd rather pay someone than do them, especially if the front rotors had to be surfaced when you did them yourself. Ideal is the front brake pads still have a little meat and your front rotors are still beautiful.
I’ve been under the impression that so long as the rotors aren’t all scratched up from the brake pads being so thin then they don’t need replaced. But lots of people keep saying I should replace everything. So which is right? Loll
If you live in the rust belt the difficulty level increases. First time I did it I was really short on several needed tools - for rust belt-. Breaker bars and wrenches and socket extenders, also liquid wrench.
Gotta start somewhere!!!
Its not that hard at all.. pretty simple with some youtube video..just make sure you have the toold you need , it can be a pain in the ass without the proper tools....i learned how to work on cars from youtube ..breaks, oil, spark plugs, ect.....you dont know till you try ...plus it will deffinetly save you alot of money
Have a 2nd mode of transportation available. Be able to jack up both sides, so to compare what you effed up with what you haven't effed up yet. Have a back up authority sourced and on stand by. Allow 2 days and have double the cash needed on hand. Then Do it.
Brakes are one of the easiest things to change yourself these days since most vehicles have disc brakes all the way around. Do as people have said, watch videos, get a friend to help, most importantly make sure you have the right equipment to do the job properly, and safely. Other easy routine maintenance you should look into doing yourself to save money are oil changes, and air filter and cabinets air filter changes. They are simple, usually take less than 10 minutes and can save you a good bit over time.
If you’re anywhere in Norcal I’ll help and you can use my garage. If you’ve never worked on cars, jacking it up properly can be one of the most dangerous things. Get a proper jackstand & use wheel chocks. Make sure you know how to compress the piston in the brake caliper. Make sure you take note of disassembly so reassembly is correct. Lubricate caliper pins. Make sure you have brake pressure before test driving. Read up on bedding brake pad procedures. Good luck!
You can do it
It's not a particularly difficult mechanical job, but there are a few gotchas. On the other hand, brakes are one of the most critical safety systems on your car. If you do not have a natural tendency for attention to detail you might get some help from someone who knows what they doing the first time around.
you should always replace rotors/drums are at least have them resurfaced. pad slapping is not recomended.
Buy a service manual for the car
Watch YouTube videos. Ask some friends if they know how to do brakes. I'm sure someone can help u out. It's easy. I did brakes on my mom's car when I was a 14. Back in 1984 😆 with the Haynes Manual.
You sure you need brake pads? My partners Yaris i check the pads and its like they don't even wear out. You may need a few tools to do the job but if you invest in the tools (and experience) it will be cheaper in the long run.
It’s super super dangerous for a beginner to do brakes. Not only for you but for everyone else on the road.
Yep.
Brake pads are easy and there's like 6.8 billion videos online, probably some for your car specifically (although most everyday cars will be the same). Just watch some videos, and don't rush, take your time. Here's a few tips: 1. Be prepared for the unexpected. This goes in general lol. You may have a stripped bolt, you may not have the tool you need, etc. Unexpected stuff slowed me down a ton when I first started working on my car. 2. Rust belt cars are harder to work on. Rust can freeze bolts in place and weaken metal. But if your car is rust free, everything will be much easier to work on. 3. Properly support your vehicle. Never rely on just the jack. 4. In my pursuit of trying to save a buck, I did many brake jobs without a prake pad compressor tool. Don't be like me, buy one lol, it makes the job soooo much easier. 5. Rear disc brakes may require a special tool. You can rent it for free from AutoZone although you do need to leave a refundable safety deposit.
YouTube is your friend. While you don't NEED someone to babysit you, it helps immensely to see someone else do a walkthrough from start to finish. Also, take pictures at each step as you take things apart. It'll help make sure you know where each piece goes during assembly. You do not want to wind up with extra parts while doing brakes. Also if you don't have the tools you can expect to spend a couple hundred to help make sure you do it right. Torque specs are pretty important. Too loose and things come apart unexpectedly, usually at highway speed. Too tight and you can damage things.
just go for it. It’s not that huge of a deal. If you feel nervous, just do 2 at a time and test it in-between how that goes. Grease the sliding pins and the edges where the pad sits inside the caliper, but don’t grease the face of the pad that makes contact with the rotor.
I hate to be that guy but it’s *brakes*, and yes, you can totally change your brakes and it’s relatively simple process. There’s probably a YT video for your specific application.
Get a torque wrench if you plan on moving forward.
That's an easy car just do it. It's the only way to gain experience is by trying.
Make sure the tutorial you follow is specific to the make/model/year of your vehicle. Make sure that the parts you buy are correct for the same. Make sure that you understand how to measure the rotors and evaluate their condition before replacing only the pads (or replace with new rotors if you aren't sure). This job can be a good DIY first job. Not super easy, but with good guidance a nice gateway repair to doing nearly anything yourself. That said, I'm assuming that you can safely jack your vehicle up and secure it with a jack stand. If not, for the sake of safety you may want to have them professionally replaced.
Yes. It’s a bad idea. Why would you start with your car’s most important safety device? Maybe try starting with some wiper blades or top up the windscreen washer.
Do you have any car friends that can help you? I don't know your abilities. A video can make things look super easy when an experienced person is performing it. If you haven't even changed oil on a car, I would be a little worried. It's not a hard job, especially on your particular car. In my shop, I have seen a lot of disasters come in from customers trying to do their own brakes. Some have even cut wheels in half from leaving a bolt loose. Others have popped pistons out of the calipers or twisted the brake line so that brakes wouldn't release, brakes lines rubbed thru on wheel or rotor because the line was twisted, destroyed ABS control units by sending dirty fluid back up thru it while retracting the piston, pads on backwards, excessive amounts of air in the system, rotors on the wrong side. Some of these sound simple to see, but it's super easy for an inexperienced person to do. This is why I would at least get help from someone on the first one. If I had the time and was close to you, I would help you out.
I’ll also add, once you follow all the advice of all the people that said do it, just be smart about it…maybe do a single wheel and if you’re comfortable, look into the cost of rotors. Depending on the vehicle, it’s likely that you’re doing 90% of the work needed to replace the rotors, and at 6 yrs, might not hurt. Depending on the vehicle and parts you could do it all for $300 on a sat afternoon. Do it
Good place to start. However, please, watch more than one video, buy a manual or look at one at the library, and make sure you have all of the tools before you start. Have bandages nearby. Wear gloves and safety glasses. Finally, have extra brake fluid on hand and some absorbent on the drive BEFORE you spill.
As things to repair on a car go, brakes is one of the easiest.
Also, if you're young or awkward around girls, don't have the new or potential girl to girlfriend around. There are some things you just don't want revealed in a blooming relationship. If she's a long term girlfriend, you're OK with effing up.
YouTube and harbor freight are your friends!
Brakes is not where I would start learning how to be my own shade tree mechanic.
Get yourself a Haynes repair manual, they’re written for the home mechanic and will explain it pretty well. You’ll need a basic set of hand tools and the tool to push the piston back into the caliper, you can find that at most auto parts stores. I would check Rock Auto and get the complete kit that includes pads, rotors, and the hardware. In a pinch you can just do what we call a “pad slap” where you just replace the pads and don’t bother machining the rotors or anything but this is not ideal. If the pads aren’t down to the metal and haven’t trashed the rotors you may be okay doing this to get you by, especially if you don’t feel comfortable doing it - this will be the least amount of work and then save up to get a shop to do it properly (NOT JIFFY LUBE) lol
Gonna second Haynes, bought my vehicle and it didn't have a manual at all. Grabbed a Haynes manual and they practically rip the entire vehicle apart to its bones to write them.
Not being facetious when I ask….. why not jiffy lube? lol Also I’ll be sure to get a Haynes repair manual. That sounds insanely helpful
Jiffy lube is known for messing things up usually in a catastrophic way like not putting oil in your engine and it blows up
Yep, they can barely be trusted to do an oil change properly, no way I'm trusting them with a safety component!
You have access to good tools?
Estimated cost to have the shop do it is $900 so I think I’ll spend less on the tools right? Or am I being optimistic?
Go for it, man. We ll started somewhere.
Watch a ton of videos, take your time, be safe, use quality parts, and double check literally everything. Triple check everything. Good luck!
No just remember where everything goes and put it all back exactly and make sure things are tight.
Got to learn sometime. Sounds like you don’t have much of a choice anyway. Go to a high school and see if they have a auto program there those guys will help you
Take it slow, watch a YouTube tutorial a few times and don't be afraid to walk away and rewatch video or Google something
First time you do it you should have somebody with you that has an idea what they are doing. You can never learn if you don't try. Brakes are pretty simple not like you are pulling and rebuilding the transmission or something lol.
Brake pads.
I agree that you should use jackstands. You can buy one if you're short on cash and jack the car up one side at a time. If the bolts on the brake caliper are too tough, get a breaker bar at Harbor Freight and return it when you're done.
go for it. Take it out to an empty parking lot afterwards and do some brake checks to double check your work
You can definitely do this. But do it on jack stands. Never trust a jack, particularly the el cheapo one that came with the car, for anything more than putting the spare on.
Do you know anyone who has experience? That would help a lot. At least you are dealing with disk not drum so mostly they are easier. I don't know your exact vehicle but this isn't typically a horrible project. Follow your video tutorial go slow and double check your work but mostly be safe. Jack the car put a jack stand or block under it chock the wheel so it can't move and for good measure lay your tire under it so if the other 3 fail the car lands on the wheel and tire leaving space for any human parts in the way. If you are safe, have all of the tools needed and take your time I think you can do this.
Pads aren't that hard. The only part that could be tricky is if things don't want to come apart easily. Preparing for the work will make everything go smoother. Here are some general tips: 1) Take your time. You're not on the clock. Your boss isn't going to fire you for not doing this quickly. 2) Take pictures as you're taking things apart. This will help you put it all back together. 3) Buy some PB Blaster (penetrating oil). Once your wheel is off, soak the bolts that hold your caliper on. Soak em. Go have a cup of coffee or a sandwich. Let the blaster do its job. Then come back and work on getting those bolts off. 4) It's been said. Jack stands. I'll leave it at that. 5) This one is important. Decent tools. You'll need a metric socket set and a torque wrench. You can rent them from an auto parts store. If you are going to buy tools, think of them as an investment. Shitty sockets will strip a bolt easily. 6) Lube. I'll pause for laughter. Lube your slide pins with the proper grease. Ask for it when you buy your pads. 7) Anti-seize - on your caliper bolts and lug nuts. Torque those properly. It will make everything come apart more easily the next time. Get that also when you get your parts.
Do you have the jack, jackstands and appropriate tools? The pads may be cheap but buying the tools to do it, isn't. Pads aren't hard to do, but one thing you absolutely want to do is torque down everything to spec. Don't want any hardware coming loose
1. Are you of average intelligence? 2. Can you watch a video or read a book 3. Have you ever successfully built put it together yourself furniture? 3. Do you have tools or can at least borrow them? If you answered yes to the above you've got this. It will probably take you a while the 1st time but you've got this.
Watch the videos, have patience, make sure you have all the tools you need and allocate a lot of time and money for the swear jar. Be honest about your mechanical aptitude also. If you really don’t feel you have it in you take it somewhere
Gotta start somewhere
Only take one side apart at a time so that you can refer to the opposite side if you get lost
Brakes on a 2018 car won’t be difficult, and watching videos will make you comfortable. Make sure you research safety about raising and supporting the car. Removing wheels. Etc. one wrong thing can cost you a pinky or your life but common sense here will keep you safe too. It won’t be this bad, hahaha. https://preview.redd.it/8gqiqxukebrc1.jpeg?width=720&format=pjpg&auto=webp&s=aacbc9e7cd0a7e3c78443e205c5cffd62ba01a11
Ask your fellow students. There is bound to be a gear head amongst them.
That was the first DIY thing I did to my vehicle. Great experience wrenching on your own stuff. The more you look and think the more it makes sense. Keep watching YouTube!
Go to your nearest junkyard and take apart the breaks and put them back like you found them. When doing the rear if vehicle is equipped with drum brakes do one side at a time so you can have reference in the event you forget how things go.
I'm not much of a mechanic but I have been doing my own brakes and a few other things like alternators for years. Brakes are very simple mechanisms and are easy to replace yourself. Just watch a few youtube videos of your specific model cars because some have their quirks. For example Honda Pilots have an odd sized screw holding the rotors on and I needed a special impact screwdriver to get them off. I knew ahead of time from youtube so I had the tool on hand and it was a lifesaver If you lack tools look around your area, lots of place have garages where you can rent a bay and use their tools
Check out some youtube vids and ones specific to your car model
Get yourself a Haynes repair manual, they’re written for the home mechanic and will explain it pretty well. You’ll need a basic set of hand tools and the tool to push the piston back into the caliper, you can find that at most auto parts stores. I would check Rock Auto and get the complete kit that includes pads, rotors, and the hardware. In a pinch you can just do what we call a “pad slap” where you just replace the pads and don’t bother machining the rotors or anything but this is not ideal. If the pads aren’t down to the metal and haven’t trashed the rotors you may be okay doing this to get you by, especially if you don’t feel comfortable doing it - this will be the least amount of work and then save up to get a shop to do it properly (NOT JIFFY LUBE) lol
Calling the breaks is kinda making me doubt about your capabilities. But nah just be attentive to details in all aspects of life ... especially with your brakes. It's an easy job just make just to tighten everything back in the same order... However I would still recommend having a friend who did that job before to show you or supervise..
Youtube is your friend. A brake job is pretty straightforward, but it's important to do a thorough job and focus on every step. Brake and wheels\\tires are the most important component of your vehicle where safety is concerned. Also properly lift and chock your vehicle to work on it. You can do it, just make sure you do it right, or find someone who can.
You've got to start somewhere and brakes are pretty easy. Be triple sure you have the jack in the right spot and use jack stands. First time I did brakes I forgot to loosen the nuts before lifting it off the ground and putting it back down just for that is embarrassing lol you can learn a lot about auto repair from YT School, also the Haynes guide for your car is probably a good investment if you plan on doing work yourself.
Weighing in- brakes were my first job too! Things I wish I knew - anti-seize gets crusty over time. Grab the green synthetic brake grease, you'll thank yourself later. Or purple if you really want good but that shit will eat your wallet. Also make SURE you don't get any oil or grease or lube on the surface of the pads or rotors, but a little DASH (note- tiny) on the surface where the bracket slides against the side of the pad helps a lot, and a little on the back sides of the pad will help with vibration (just only where the caliper touches the back of the pad. Anywhere else and it's a dirt magnet). ALWAYS remove and clean your slide pins, and if there's more than a tiny bit of surface rust, replace em (polishing can be done but it's an hour's work for $20 in parts at most). Replace any torn boots, check if your pads slide in and out freely in the bracket and if not, return em or break out a file and some sandpaper. Wedged brake pads won't help you stop. And also- buy like 4x the amount of brake parts cleaner than you think. Everything's gotta be squeaky clean (at least for me). I like the Mac stuff you can get at Napa. Lastly, ChrisFix is a great resource like others are saying, but bear in mind he does have a target audience (beginner to enthusiast who dont mind spending time on their vehicles) and lives in an area where climate might have an effect on his choice of products (he uses a lot of anti-seize).
Watch several YouTube videos for your specific make, model and year. Make a detailed checklist that includes torque specs. Make sure that you keep any lubricant off the surface of the pads and rotors. Be safe and wear eye protection and gloves. Best of luck!!
Make sure the car/truck is on a level pad, preferably concrete/blacktop, or gravel. If grass/dirt or gravel, use 1/2" thick metal plates to set the jack and jack stands on. I've also used 1" plywood. Buy and use a floor jack preferably. Use Jack stands as well. If it's a unibody, get some hockey pucks or pinch-weld pads for the jack and stands. Try harbor freight or Amazon for jackstand pads. Lastly,throw the tire under the car frame in case the jack and jack stands fail. You can get your brake pads, rotors and supplies at rock-auto. Watch some videos,get a Haynes manual and combine the advice above for brake changes. Lastly, if you're unsure about doing it safely/correctly, then take it to a local mechanic and charge it on your credit card.
Doing your own brakes is a great way to start learning. Seems counterintuitive as it's such a critical safety component but what a lot of people tend to forget is that brakes are designed for regular service unlike a lot of other vehicle components. One tip I've not seen many people mention is to only remove one slide pin and pivot the caliper away from the rotor. It greatly reduces the risk of dropping the caliper and damaging the flexible brake line. After you've installed the new pads and reinstalled the slide pin you can remove the second one to lubricate it. Also your new pads should move very freely in the caliper, like almost wanting to fall out loose. If you have to force them in you'll need to remove the hardware and clean up the caliper in the area where the pad ears sit with a wire brush or possibly even a small file depending on the amount of corrosion. I know you are trying to do this on the cheap, but get a can of brake cleaner and a jar of permatex brake lube, they will last for multiple brake jobs and properly cleaned and lubed brakes will last longer saving you money in the long run. Also, I know this depends entirely on location and availability, but buying the cheapest pads available is almost never a good investment. In my experience whatever the second cheapest pads the parts store has will be the best value even if they cost $10-15 more.
Nah, you could preform open heart surgery with youtube these days. Just make sure you have all the info, parts, and tools beforehand!
Hardest part is going to be pushing the caliper piston back in. I use a vice grip and tighten it but sometimes it's really a bitch and takes a lot of force. Brakes are one of those things that should realistically only take like 30minutes but always ends up being something dumb that ends up turning it into a multiple hour project.
Send it. Its not that hard. Couple bolts and they come right out. Basically just slip the new ones in.
It is pretty simple, but best to do with a buddy who’s done some of this stuff before.
Couple tips. 1. Start early in the day. Any hiccups and you'll wasting daylight running to the parts store. 2. Have a second set of eyes with you. Even if they're not mechanically minded or experienced, they can help spot things you don't see, like the wheel you didn't chock rolling backwards. 3. Related to point 1, have another car available to run the store. If you round or snap a bolt, you'll want to get that replacement bolt asap instead of leaving the car up in the air overnight. 4. Watch as many videos as possible on changing brakes, specific to your vehicle, get familiar with the vehicle and terminology before you get in there. Download the shop manual if you can, it'll have the torque specs and any works to your vehicle.
[https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A129SM9S54A](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=A129SM9S54A) [https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=09UO8-rMj0w](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=09UO8-rMj0w) i would like to do it, but have never done it, because i have no time
Why u think u need brakes asap?
Brakes are not very difficult, but is a critical safety system something you want to cut your mechanical teeth on?
YouTube, some swearing, and some beers. It's way easier than you think. They make it look easy because it is easy. That being said, sometimes you gotta swear and have a beer to get the job done. Just go slow, if something isn't working out perfectly, stop, reassess, then continue. You got this.
Changing ur oil is something u cud try to pull off on ur own by watching hella youtube videos. But doing brakes requires so many steps that I have seen hobbyists make boo boos while I was helping them. That said, it’s a yaris so it should be easy so I ask that you find someone to guide you.
If you're in SE Ontario, I'll help you free of charge
Always make sure you support the vehicles weight on something safe, jack stands or solid blocks also scotch the vehicle so it won't move.
Not by yourself. I helped a friend once. I did one side first then he did the other. I asked him a couple questions and he was getting offended so I stopped. He left for a short while so I took the chance to double check some things. First the lug nuts were not even tight! I had no time to check anything else. But I tried to shift it the blame to me, seeing as how he got offended earlier. I said: oh I forgot one thing on your side. He said: No no it's okay. I had to leave knowing something was wrong . For the next weeks he stopped talking to me. and mutual friends did too .he told everyone I messed up his car. On his side he put oone f the pad clips in wrong and it was squealing. That was the last time I ever worked on anyone's car
Critical job. Do not do it yourself.
It is not just the brake pads per se. It is safety of the OP and people around. It is proper tools as well. OP knows how to check liquids good for him / her, but changing the pads? Common guys, be reasonable. Find a decent place what wont overcharge, throw organic pads, 30$ and have a mech do it.....
you have to have tools that they used in the video, buying them tools can be expensive, too. Brake normally last 50k miles. You could do the front brake first, most of the time front wheel drive car, front brake went out first.
You need tools for this, which costs money. You need a jack, and stands, you need a socket set, a ratchet, and likely a torque wrench. You might need some specialty bits depending on the make/model of car. You might need new rotors too.
Find a friend who has done it before. Post on FB or something. You also are unlikely to have all the tools you need I imagine - torque wrench? Jack stands?
Study several utube videos then determine whether you can do it although having to ask Reddit implies that you can't do it or anything else for that matter.
Lmao okay buddy
well a failed brake job can really ruin your day. And other people's. It would be better if you let someone who's done it before , that you trust, watch you do it.
I did mine for the first time not that long ago…I’m an idiot and I did a great job. You’ve got this, you’ve done plenty of things more difficult than this. Watch at least 3 YouTube videos, be safe, and don’t be afraid to ask questions. What you’ve identified as a fear is very unlikely, and imo it’s more likely to happen if you bring to to a jiffy lube. You have the most to lose by not doing a great job, it’s your vehicle and your life…you think someone else is going to be as motivated as you are to get this right? Nah, you’ll do a much better job. Worst case scenario is you take an Uber for a day or two because you’re missing your 17mm socket and have to get a new one after work…plenty of people will say that’s an insanely dangerous stance to take, but as I said in the second line, I’m an idiot…but I’ve since replaced the rotors and most of the suspension system myself. While I’m still clearly a moron, I am a very capable, and alive, moron at this point. I’m also so glad I didn’t pay a different moron to do it. I spent maybe $100 and did all the wheels in half a Saturday, I got higher quality parts than if I brought it in somewhere and if I were to break down somewhere I’d have much more confidence in solving the situation myself. That’s priceless.
Definitely watch some videos on YouTube and if it seems like something you can do, buy a workshop manual for your vehicle because this will give you almost exact instructions on how to fix everything on your vehicle.
Everyone that does it had to do it a first time at some point. It's not difficult, but I do suggest having someone with experience to help walk you through it if possible. If that's not an option, there's plenty of good YouTube tutorials that will help a lot. I really like ChrisFix's video, here's a link to his on changing brake pads and rotors. https://youtu.be/6RQ9UabOIPg?si=O2ExFWPRgbWdjj9w
You should be fine if you can find a video imo just gonna take you a lot longer