Brake Pad Replacement
Shop Cost
~$300
DIY Parts
~$60
You Save
~$240
Tools needed (one-time, if you don't own them)~$230
🔧 Torque Spec: Caliper bolts: 25-35 ft-lbs
Tools Required (8)
Lug wrench
Jack & jack stands
C-clamp or brake piston tool
Socket set
Brake cleaner spray
Wire brush
Torque wrench
Caliper hanger/bungee cord
Parts & Consumables
Brake padsBrake greaseBrake cleaner
Pro Tip Never let caliper hang by brake line. Compress pistons slowly.
🚗 Vehicle-Specific Notes
Ford F-150
21mm caliper bracket bolts, extremely tight. Slide pins need silicone grease.
Extra tools: 21mm socket, breaker bar
BMW
Electronic pad wear sensor. Clip to new pad. Reset service indicator with OBD.
Extra tools: OBD-II scanner, pad wear sensor
Subaru
Front pads wear faster due to weight distribution. 17mm caliper bolts.
Honda
12mm caliper slide pin bolts. Easy job. Replace shims and clips.
Toyota
14mm caliper bolts. Thin brake shims required. Apply disc brake quiet.
Volkswagen
Rear pads require electronic parking brake retraction tool on newer models.
Extra tools: Electronic caliper tool
Chevrolet
Trucks use 18mm caliper bolts. Cars 13mm. Replace hardware kit clips.
❓ Common Questions
What tools do I need for a brake pad replacement?
You need 8 tools: Lug wrench, Jack & jack stands, C-clamp or brake piston tool, Socket set, Brake cleaner spray, Wire brush, Torque wrench, Caliper hanger/bungee cord. Parts required: Brake pads, Brake grease, Brake cleaner.
How much does a brake pad replacement cost DIY vs shop?
A shop charges approximately $300. Doing it yourself costs about $60 in parts, saving you $240.
How hard is a brake pad replacement to do yourself?
Rated Easy (2/5 difficulty). Typically takes 1-2 hrs. Never let caliper hang by brake line. Compress pistons slowly.
How often should you do a brake pad replacement?
Recommended Every 30-50K mi (approximately every 40,000 miles).
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