How Long Does It Take To Replace Brake Pads? - Vehicle Freak

• Brian Onyango

Updated on March 30, 2024

Brake pads provide the point of contact between the brake system and the rotor attached to the wheel. It intentionally uses a softer material than steel rotors as they’re cheaper and easier to replace. But the question is how long does it take to replace brake pads?

A professional mechanic can replace brake pads in under an hour, provided there are no complications. The process is fairly simple and does not require you to bleed the brakes afterward. Without the tools that make the job go more quickly, a DIY mechanic will take up to 3 hours to get all of the pads replaced.

How to Change the Brake Pads

Changing the brake pads is not a difficult job which is why many car enthusiasts opt to do the job by themselves. We’ll show you the steps and tools required to replace the pads, but if you feel overwhelmed by the job, there’s nothing wrong with taking your car to a mechanic.

Tools You’ll Need:

Steps to Replace the Brake Pads:

1. Loosen the lugs on the first wheel.
2. Lift the car with the jack, and place the jack stands underneath for support.
3. Unbolt the lugs completely and remove the wheel.
4. If dealing with front wheels, turn the wheel in the opposite direction of the side you’re working on. That will provide you more room to work with, as the brake caliper is going to point outwards. Make sure to have both wheels lifted on jack stands to avoid having the vehicle drop due to the movement.
5. Remove the slide pins out of the caliper. There are usually two of them, and they’re located on the back side of the caliper. Also, remove the safety clip.
6. Use a piece of wire to hang the brake caliper off the coil spring now that it’s loose.
7. Compress the caliper piston. You can use a C-clamp or a similar tool.
8. Remove the old brake pads and position the new ones in their place.
9. Lubricate caliper slide pins with silicone grease. Make sure not to get this grease on the inside of the brake pads.
10. Grease the exterior of the inner brake pad with some grease at the point of contact with the piston. You can look at the marking on the old brake pad for reference.
11. Slide the brake caliper back on and secure the pins. Return the safety clip to its place.
12. Reinstall the wheel and repeat the process for the other brake pads.

Checks You Should Perform After Installing New Brake Pads

After installing your new brake pads, there are a few checks you should perform to ensure they are working properly. These include:

Make Sure they Are Fitted in the Right Position

First, check to make sure the new brake pads are fitted in the right position. They should be placed so that the wear sensor is facing out and not touching anything.

Check for Leaks

Next, check for leaks in the brake lines or caliper. If you see any fluid leaking, it’s important to have it fixed as soon as possible.

Test the Brakes

Finally, test the brakes to make sure they are working properly. Do this by driving slowly at first and then gradually increasing your speed. If the brakes feel spongy or soft, have them checked by a professional.

Check for Dirt or Debris

It’s also important to check the area around the brake pads for dirt or debris. If you find any, be sure to clean it out before driving your vehicle.

How Long It Takes to Replace Your Brake Pads

As you can see, there are a few factors that play into how long it takes to replace your brake pads. However, on average, it should take about 30 minutes to an hour to complete the job.

Some of the factors that will determine the time taken to replace your brake pads include:

1. The Type of Vehicle

The type of vehicle you have will play a role in how long it takes to replace your brake pads. Smaller cars with front-wheel drive tend to be easier and faster to work on than larger vehicles.

2. The Tool You’re Using

If you’re using hand tools, it’s going to take longer than if you’re using power tools. It’s important to have the right tools for the job to make it go as quickly and smoothly as possible.

3. The Condition of the Brake Calipers

If the brake calipers are in good condition, they will be easier to remove and install than if they are damaged or worn out.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Often Should I Replace My Brake Pads?

Most mechanics agree that you should replace your brake pads every 30,000 miles or so. However, this can vary depending on the type of vehicle you have and how often you use your brakes.

If you do a lot of stop-and-go driving or live in a hilly area, you may need to replace your pads more frequently.

With proper care and maintenance, your new brake pads should last anywhere from 30,000 to 70,000 miles. However, this will vary depending on driving habits and conditions.

Be sure to have your brakes checked regularly to ensure they are in good condition and working properly.

How Much Does It Cost to Get Your Brake Pads Changed?

Parts typically cost between $35 and $150. Between $80 to $120 per axle is the standard labor cost. Between $115 and $300 is the typical brake pad replacement cost per axle (parts plus labor).

Should You Replace All 4 Brake Pads at Once?

You don’t necessarily have to replace all four brake pads at once. However, it’s generally a good idea to do so if one set of pads is worn out. This way, you can avoid having to make two trips to the mechanic and save money in the long run.

It’s important to note that if you only replace one set of pads, the other set will likely wear out faster. This is because the brake system will be unbalanced and put more strain on the new pads. As a result, you may have to replace them more frequently.

How Do I Know If My Brake Pads Are Worn Out?

Worn-out brake pads will usually make a squealing noise when you brake. You may also notice that your vehicle takes longer to stop than it used to. Visual inspection of the pads is also a good way to check their condition.

Brake pads are an important part of your vehicle’s braking system. It’s important to know how long it takes to replace them and what factors can affect the time it takes. With proper care and maintenance, your brake pads can last for many miles.

What Are Brake Discs?

Brake discs, also known as brake rotors, are metal discs that your vehicle’s brake pads clamp down on to stop the wheels from turning. Over time, they can become warped or damaged and will need to be replaced.

Conclusion

How long it takes to change brake pads depends on several factors. In general, changing brake pads typically takes around one hour. If you plan on doing the job yourself, leave 2-3 hours of spare time, just in case.

Changing your brake pads is a relatively easy job that most people can do themselves. However, it’s important to take your time and make sure everything is done properly.

For more related articles, check out these posts:

How Many Brake Pads Per Wheel?

What Is The Minimum Brake Pad Thickness? (2022 Recommended Thickness)

Are Brake Pads Universal?