Table of Contents
Can I just replace my brake pads?
Yes, but it depends on the condition of your brake rotors. If they aren’t damaged or thinned beyond the discard thickness, you can definitely change just the worn brake pads. As we know, brake rotors and brake pads work together. The brake rotor affects how the brake pads perform and wear over time, and vice versa.
How do I change my brake pads only?
Steps for changing your brake pads
- Remove the wheel.
- Remove the slider bolt.
- Pivot the caliper up.
- Slide out the old brake pads.
- Replace the retaining clips.
- Slide in the new brake pads.
- Retract the pistons.
- Monitor the brake fluid level.
Do I need to replace my rotors when I replace my brake pads?
The most complete brake service includes fully replacing brake pads and rotors, which gives you better stopping power and more fade resistance. Like brake pads, brake rotors wear out over time. But for optimum brake performance and safety, always choose to replace your brake rotors when replacing your brake pads.
Can you put new brake pads on old rotors?
When properly bedded and used over time, a thin layer of brake pad material is transferred to the brake rotor surface, and this helps create optimal friction for stopping. When a set of pads is worn out and need to be replaced, it is perfectly ok to install a new set of pads on the old rotors.
Can you change brake pads without removing caliper?
You should never have to remove the calipers to change the pads. I was surprised that the brakes on my SL500 are fixed calipers in the front – requiring you to knock out the pins holding the pads, removing the spring on top – I have usually used just a screwdriver to push the old pads back and pushing the piston.
Do you need to bleed brakes when changing pads?
The only way to be sure your system doesn’t have an air bubble is to bleed your brakes after repairing the leak. If you’re replacing worn brake pads, which can cause air to enter the master cylinder. If you change your rotors or pads. Any brake job should include a brake bleed for safety’s sake.