Changing Brakes
 

Could anyone please post specific instructions for how to change the front brake pads on a 2002 protege5.

This couldn't be simpler..Seriously - the easiest brake job I've ever done.

1) Loosen lug nuts slightly
2) Jack up car
3) Remove wheel
4) You will see a black cap over the back of one of the caliper bolts (can't remember if it is the upper or lower, but I'm pretty sure it's the lower, and it'll be obvious). The cap sits in a rubber boot, and has a little tab on it (like a nipple).
5) Pull the nippled cap off
6) Loosen caliper bolt with a 10mm Allen wrench.
7) Pull out caliper bolt (keep it clean)
8) Caliper will now swing out from the rotor, exposing the pads.
9) Pop out old pads
10) Use a "C" clamp to push back caliper piston. Do this slowly, a 1/4 turn at a time. Push piston back as far as it will go.
11) Insert new pads.
12) Repeat caliper removal process in reverse, put the wheel back on, lower jack, pump the brakes a few times (with the car off).
13) Repeat on other side.
14) Stop with confidence.

If you've ever done a brake job before, you will find this incredibly easy. If you haven't, you should still find it pretty simple.

Took me about a half-hour to do both front wheels from loosening the first lug nut to tightening the last one. EEEEE-Z!

~HH

good info. I hate starting a job and then realize i don't have the right size allen.

Great info!!! :) I have no issues with my rotors at all, can I just replace pads. I figure its time to chnage them even though I am not even getting any squealing or thumping. But I do have 65000kms ~35000miles. I am curious, is it that simple to chnage the pads of my 01 1.6L????

P.S. I did not want to waste space by starting yet another post on brakes. Figured this one was fine