Could you please tell me in changing brake pads/discs

SUSANNESOLAS

MEMBER
2003 VAUXHALL ZAFIRA

Could you please tell me in changing brake pads/discs is it advisable to change the rear the reason I ask is that a local garage suggested that I needed to change the brakes and discs on the back of my car but did not need to change front only back. Feel a bit confused because I had always understood that front brake pads wore faster than back ones and if needed to be changed to always change all brake pads at same time. Never to just change one or two to always replace al round and same with tyres. Apreciate any help/advice you can give. Kind Regards. Susanne.X

1 Reply

BORIS K

MECHANIC
799 POSTS

Hello,

It certainly is advisable to replace brake pads and rotors on the same axle, this ensures even brake force distribution from left to right side. If the brake pad and rotor thickness is deemed to be within tolerances then there is no need to replace all brakes on the vehicle.

To replace rear brakes on your car please follow the below general description.

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/how-to-replace-rear-brake-pads-and-rotors

1. Jack up the vehicle safely. Support it with suitable axle stands.
2. Remove the rear wheels.
3. Release the parking brake.
4. Detach the parking brake cable from the brake calliper (see illustration below).
5.Loosen the lower retaining bolt holding the brake calliper ( see illustration)
6. Fold the brake calliper upwards (see illustration).
7. Remove the brake pads.
8.Wind back the piston using special tool (see Illustrations).
9. Loosen the retaining bolt for the rotor and replace rotor.

Assemble in reverse.

Once fitted depress the brake pedal 20-30 times to reset the rear calliper piston which you have wound back.

Please let us know how you get along.

Cheers, Boris

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