Front Brake Pads & Rotor Replacement Honda Civic 2006-2011

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through the process of replacing the front brake pads and rotors on a Honda Civic from 2006 to 2011. Replacing worn-out brake components is essential for maintaining vehicle safety and performance. Follow these step-by-step instructions to complete the job efficiently and safely.

Step 1: Prepare the Vehicle

• Elevate the front end of the vehicle on level ground.
• Engage the emergency brake to ensure stability.
• Loosen and remove the lug nuts using the appropriate size socket.
• Remove the front wheel to gain access to the brake assembly.

Step 2: Remove the Brake Caliper

• Rotate the brake assembly for better access.
• Use a 12 mm socket or wrench to remove the brake caliper slide bolts.
• If the slide pins spin while loosening, use vice grips to hold them in place.
• Carefully remove the brake caliper and support it; do not let it hang from the brake line to avoid damage.

Step 3: Remove Old Brake Pads

• Use a standard screwdriver to pry off the old brake pads.
• Inspect them to confirm wear; they should be replaced if there's minimal life left.

Step 4: Remove the Brake Caliper Mounting Bracket

• Use a 17 mm socket to remove the hardware securing the brake caliper mounting bracket.
• Set the hardware aside for reuse.

Step 5: Remove the Old Brake Rotor

• Use an impact screwdriver to remove the screws securing the brake rotor. Ensure you wear eye protection during this process.
• Compare the new brake rotor with the old one to confirm correct sizing.

Step 6: Clean the Surfaces

• Use brake cleaner and an old shop towel to clean:
  • The surface where the new brake pads will touch.
  • The surface where the brake rotor will contact the hub.

Step 7: Install the New Brake Rotor

• Place the new brake rotor onto the hub using the screws removed earlier.
• Secure it in place.

Step 8: Reinstall the Brake Caliper Mounting Bracket

• Reattach the brake caliper mounting bracket with the hardware you removed earlier.
• Use a 17 mm socket to tighten the bolts to factory torque specifications.

Step 9: Install New Brake Pads

• Compare the new brake pads to the old ones to ensure proper fit.
• Clean the surface where the new brake pads will be installed.
• Install the new brake pads, ensuring the one with the metal tang goes on the inside.

Step 10: Compress the Brake Caliper Piston

• Use an old brake pad and a large pair of channel locks or a brake caliper compression tool to compress the piston back into the brake caliper.

Step 11: Reinstall the Brake Caliper

• Reattach the brake caliper using the hardware you removed earlier.
• Tighten the caliper bolts with a 12 mm socket to factory specifications.

Step 12: Reinstall the Wheel

• Place the wheel back onto the vehicle.
• Hand-tighten the lug nuts to avoid cross-threading.
• Tighten the lug nuts in a cross-pattern formation to factory specifications.

Step 13: Test the Brakes

• Before operating the vehicle, press down on the brake pedal slowly and release it.
• Repeat this process until you achieve firm brake pedal pressure.
• Your vehicle is now safe to drive.

Conclusion

You have successfully replaced the front brake pads and rotors on your Honda Civic. Regular maintenance of your brake system is vital for your safety on the road. If you have questions or need further assistance, consider consulting a professional mechanic or visiting a trusted automotive website. Happy driving!