brake pad install

[russ257]

hey i need new front brake pads i got a set of bendix d923 brakes. Any tips on changeing vibe brake pads

[russ257]

ok i took the wheel off and looked at the cause of the problem looks like the inside pad is broken. Any idea what caused this and do you think if i took it to the dealership they would do anything under warrenty

[joatmon]

hard to say, they may tell you you hit a pothole, and physical damage from abuse isn't covered under warranty.That's not what I would say, because I've never broken a brake pad, although I've worn out quite a few.How much did the new brake pads cost? Unless you want to argue the point for the principle, it may not be worth it to put up with a hassle filled trip to the dealer.

[russ257]

they were 25 dollars, there is a dealership right by work so i will swing by on tuesday it couldnt hurt to have them look. Also someone mentioned there may be damage to the caliper which would suck but i wouldnt mind having a pro look at it

[russ257]

ok i called the dealership and they coulldnt see me till next week so i said screw it and put them on myself. The right side was worn down to metal no pad left on the inside and the left had a considerable amount of wear i will take pics and put them up when i get internet in my apt (at work now) my question is is this normal should the inside pad wear down faster then the outside pad.

[futseal04]

They sometimes do, because that is the side that the piston is on. Where did you get your pads? Autozone is a good place, because if you get the lifetime warrantied ones, whenever they wear out, you take em back and get new ones for free!As far as damage to the caliper, i would doubt it. the only thing there is to damage is the seal around the piston (unless you bent the caliper or damaged the piston....in which case you would know pretty quick). You can tell this by the car pulling to one side when you apply the brakes. If you think you broke the seal, then look for leaking brake fluid around the rotor area.

[russ257]

the caliper looks fine. I got the pads at advanced auto but i am about done dealing with them they have the most inept people working for them and their computer system doesnt have a parts list for the 2003 vibe because it is "too new" he said the newest they had was 2002 that means their system in like 3 to 4 model years behind. anyway i called a friend in fron of a computer got the number offline and then told the guy and he had to order them in. I think i will go to napa from now on.

[jetboy]

I found on other cars that cracked pads are usually caused by execssive heat for extended periods. I used to deliver papers in a saturn and because of very frequent braking I had to change the pads almost once every two months. When I ditched the job, the pads lasted years- same calipers. Your problem could be you simply live in extreme traffic, or have a binded piston rubbing slightly at all times

[Jahntassa]

How hard is it to change the pads for someone that hasn't done it before? I'm familiar with the parts..just never tried it..

[MadBill]

If the system is in good shape, it's a very simple job. For the fronts, basically you take off the wheel, undo the two anchor bolts, lift off the caliper, use a big pair of channel lock pliers to squeeze the pad and piston all the way back into the cylinder (check first that the fluid level in the master cylinder hasn't been topped up with the worn pads, or it may overflow), pull out the old pads, drop in the new ones and bolt it back on. Because brakes are such a vital component, it would be wise to carefully study a service manual and/or have an experienced friend supervise your first time.

[futseal04]

It is pretty simple, unless you have to bleed them (and you shouldn't) The only thing I have to add to Madbill's piece is to take the lid off of the master cylinder and squeeze the pad SLOWLY (as not to spill brake fluid all over the place.) You can also use a C-clamp to press them down as well. Also, don't forget to coat the metal side with the anti-squeek gunk that is sometimes supplied with the new pads. When you are done, you will have to pump the brake pedal a couple of times to restore pressure, and then take it on a short drive to ensure proper operation. If they need to be bled (but again, they shouldn't) let me know and I will walk you through it.