How to Replace Front Brakes 07-11 Honda CR-V

Introduction

This tutorial provides a step-by-step guide on how to replace the front brakes on a 2007-2011 Honda CR-V. Following these instructions will help you save money on repair costs and ensure your vehicle maintains optimal braking performance.

Step 1: Prepare the Vehicle

• Loosen Lug Nuts: Use a 19mm socket and a breaker bar to crack the lug nuts free while the wheel is still on the ground.
• Raise the Vehicle: Use a jack to lift the vehicle and securely support it with jack stands.
• Remove the Wheel: Take off the loosened lug nuts and remove the wheel to access the brake assembly.

Step 2: Remove the Brake Rotor

• Take Off Rotor Screws: Locate and remove the two screws holding the rotor in place using a regular screwdriver or an impact screwdriver if necessary.
• Remove Caliper: Use a 14mm socket and a ratchet to take off the caliper bolts. If the pin spins, use a 19mm wrench to hold it in place while loosening the bolt.
• Support the Caliper: Use a bungee cord to hang the caliper out of the way, preventing strain on the brake hose.

Step 3: Remove Brake Pads and Caliper Bracket

• Remove Brake Pads: Use a screwdriver to pry off the brake pads from the caliper bracket.
• Take Off Caliper Bracket: Use a 19mm socket and a breaker bar to loosen and remove the caliper bracket bolts. You can leave one bolt slightly attached to make handling easier.
• Remove Rotor: If the rotor is stuck, tap it gently with a hammer. Once loose, remove it completely.

Step 4: Prepare New Components

• Clean Caliper Bracket: Use a wire brush to clean the caliper bracket where the pads slide.
• Check for Rust: Inspect and remove any rust from the pad slides.
• Install New Brake Pads: Insert new brake pads into the caliper bracket.

Step 5: Install New Rotor and Caliper

• Clean Rotor: Use brake parts cleaner to wipe down the new rotor, removing any protective coating.
• Install Rotor: Position the rotor onto the hub, aligning the screw holes, and secure it with the two screws (snug, not overly tight).
• Reattach Caliper Bracket: Slide the caliper bracket over the new rotor and tighten the bolts using a 19mm socket. Torque these bolts to 101 foot-pounds.

Step 6: Reattach Caliper and Final Assembly

• Compress Caliper Piston: Use an old brake pad and a caliper compressor tool to push the piston back into the caliper.
• Reinstall Caliper: Slide the caliper over the new brake pads and secure with the caliper bolts. Torque these to 37 foot-pounds.
• Reinstall Wheel: Place the wheel back onto the hub and hand-tighten the lug nuts.

Step 7: Lower Vehicle and Finalize

• Lower the Vehicle: Bring the vehicle down until the wheel touches the ground.
• Torque Lug Nuts: Torque the lug nuts to 80 foot-pounds in a star pattern to ensure even tightening.
• Pump Brake Pedal: Pump the brake pedal several times to eliminate any air gap between the caliper piston and brake pads.

Conclusion

You have successfully replaced the front brakes on your Honda CR-V. Make sure to test drive your vehicle to ensure everything is functioning correctly. For further assistance, or if you need parts, visit 1AAuto.com for quality auto parts and customer service.