3 Common Brake Change Mistakes You Need to Avoid

Changing your brakes is a crucial maintenance task that ensures your vehicle’s safety and performance. However, even experienced DIYers can fall into common pitfalls during the process. Avoid these three mistakes to ensure your brake job goes smoothly and effectively.

Maintaining brake calipers, brake pedal, and brake rotors is essential for the safe operation of your vehicle.

Pre-Brake Change Checklist

Inspect the caliper mounting bracket and caliper piston for proper function.
Understand the car’s brake system and its components.
Inspect brake rotors for wear and damage, as they play a crucial role in creating friction.
Recognize the importance of disc brakes and their maintenance.
Inspect the hub assembly and wheel bearings.
Ensure lug nuts are properly secured and torqued.
Acknowledge the role of metal discs (brake rotors) in the braking system.
Have new brake pads ready for installation.

Pre-Brake Change Checklist

Before starting the brake change process, it’s essential to ensure you have everything you need to complete the job safely and efficiently. Here’s a pre-brake change checklist to help you prepare:

Gather Your Tools: Make sure you have all the necessary tools and equipment, including a lug wrench, socket set, and jack stand. Having everything on hand will save you time and frustration.
Prepare Your Workspace: Ensure your workspace is clean, well-lit, and free of any hazards. A tidy area helps you focus and reduces the risk of accidents.
Wear Protective Gear: Safety first! Wear gloves and safety glasses to protect yourself from debris and chemicals.
Consult the Owner’s Manual: Your vehicle’s owner’s manual contains specific instructions and recommendations for your brake system. Always refer to it for guidance.
Inspect the Brake System: Before you begin, check for any signs of damage or wear, such as worn brake pads, warped rotors, or brake fluid leaks. Addressing these issues beforehand can prevent further complications.
Check Brake Fluid Levels: Ensure your brake fluid is at the correct level and top it off if necessary. Proper fluid levels are crucial for the braking system’s performance.
Have Replacement Parts Ready: Make sure you have the correct replacement brake pads and rotors for your vehicle. Double-checking this can save you from mid-job surprises.

1. Skipping Proper Cleaning of Mating Surfaces

When installing new brake discs, it’s essential to ensure that the hub’s mating surface is completely clean. Dirt, rust, or debris on this surface can prevent proper rotor alignment, leading to uneven braking and vibrations.

Why it Matters:In regions prone to rust or where road salt is commonly used, buildup on the hub can quickly accumulate. Any imperfections on the mating surface can create gaps that affect braking performance.
How to Avoid It:Use a wire brush or abrasive tool to descale and clean the hub thoroughly. Check for any leftover debris before mounting the new rotor. Inspect the hub assembly for damage and ensure it is clean to avoid affecting the functionality of the brakes. This extra step ensures your brake system functions at its best.

2. Overusing Brake Lubricant

Lubricating brake components is a debated topic, but overdoing it can cause more harm than good. Applying excessive grease, especially on the abutments or back of the pads, can attract dirt and grime, leading to accelerated wear and performance issues.

Key Points to Remember:
Most new cars don’t come with grease on the abutments because dirt tends to stick to it, causing contamination.
If lubrication is necessary, apply the absolute minimum amount.
Pro Tip:Grease included in brake pad kits is often meant for shims, not abutments. Use it sparingly for shim applications to reduce noise, but avoid slathering it on areas that attract contaminants. Additionally, inspect and properly lubricate the caliper piston to ensure smooth operation and prevent issues like uneven wear patterns.

Brake Rotor Preparation

Before installing a new brake rotor, it’s crucial to prepare the surface properly to ensure optimal braking performance. Here are the steps to follow:

Clean the Hub Surface: Use a wire brush to remove any rust, dirt, or debris from the hub surface. A clean hub ensures proper rotor alignment and prevents vibrations.
Inspect for Damage: Look for any signs of wear or damage on the hub surface, such as scoring or excessive wear. Address any issues before proceeding.
Smooth the Surface: If necessary, use a rotor resurfacing tool to smooth out the hub surface. This step helps in achieving a perfect fit for the new rotor.
Apply Brake Lubricant: Apply a thin layer of brake lubricant to the hub surface. This prevents corrosion and ensures smooth operation of the brake rotor.
Install the New Rotor: Carefully place the new brake rotor onto the hub, making sure it’s properly seated and aligned. Proper installation is key to effective braking.

3. Neglecting Caliper Slider Maintenance

Caliper sliders are vital for proper brake operation. These components allow the caliper to move and apply even pressure to the pads. If the sliders are dirty or improperly lubricated, the caliper may not function correctly, leading to uneven braking and excessive wear.

What Can Go Wrong: Dirty or dry sliders can cause the caliper to stick, preventing smooth clamping or retraction. This can result in uneven pad wear, brake noise, and compromised braking efficiency.
What to Do: Remove the caliper bracket and clean the guide pins thoroughly. Use a high-temperature brake lubricant to ensure smooth operation. Regular maintenance of these parts can significantly extend the life of your brakes. Additionally, inspect and properly maintain the caliper mounting bracket to ensure the caliper functions correctly.

Brake Fluid Maintenance

Brake fluid is a critical component of the braking system, and regular maintenance is essential to ensure optimal performance and safety. Here are some tips for maintaining your brake fluid:

Regular Checks: Check the brake fluid level regularly, ideally every 6 months or 6,000 miles. Keeping an eye on the fluid level helps you catch issues early.
Top Off as Needed: If the brake fluid level is low, top it off using the recommended type and amount for your vehicle. Proper fluid levels are crucial for the braking system’s efficiency.
Inspect for Contamination: Look for signs of contamination in the brake fluid, such as a dark color or sediment. Contaminated fluid can compromise braking performance.
Replace Periodically: Replace the brake fluid every 2 years or as recommended by the manufacturer. Fresh fluid ensures the braking system operates smoothly.
Use Test Strips: Use brake fluid test strips to check the fluid’s condition. These strips can help you determine if the fluid needs to be replaced.
Avoid Mixing Fluids: Never mix different types of brake fluid, as this can compromise the braking system’s performance and safety. Stick to the recommended type for your vehicle.

Final Thoughts

Changing your brakes requires attention to detail and a commitment to doing the job correctly. By avoiding these three common mistakes—failing to clean mating surfaces, overusing lubricant, and neglecting caliper slider maintenance—you can ensure your braking system operates efficiently and safely.

Proper brake care not only protects your vehicle but also enhances your driving experience, giving you confidence on the road. Regular maintenance and inspections of the car’s brake system, including components like brake pads, rotors, and fluid, are essential to ensure optimal performance and safety.