How To Replace Rear Brakes 2007-11 Honda CR-V

Introduction

This tutorial provides a step-by-step guide on how to replace the rear brakes on a 2007-2011 Honda CR-V. Regular maintenance of your vehicle's braking system is crucial for safety and performance. Over time, brake pads and rotors wear out, and it's essential to replace them, typically every 50,000 miles, depending on driving habits and conditions. This guide will walk you through the process, ensuring you have a safe and effective brake system.

Step 1: Gather Your Tools

Before you begin, make sure you have the following tools and materials ready:

• Flat Blade Screwdriver
• Impact Screwdriver
• Phillips Head Screwdriver
• 12mm Socket
• 19mm Socket
• Brake Caliper Compressor Tool (Dual Piston, Pump Style)
• Brake Caliper Hanger
• Ratchet
• Torque Wrench
• Anti-Seize Grease
• Brake Grease
• Brake Parts Cleaner
• Gloves
• Safety Glasses
• Floor Jack
• Hammer
• Wheel Chocks
• Wire Brush

Having everything on hand will streamline the process.

Step 2: Prepare the Vehicle

1. Ensure Safety:

   • Park the vehicle on a flat surface and engage the parking brake.
   • Use wheel chocks to secure the front wheels.

2. Lift the Vehicle:

   • Use a floor jack to lift the rear of the vehicle.
   • Secure it with jack stands for safety.

Step 3: Remove the Rear Wheel

1. Loosen the Lug Nuts:

   • Using a 19mm socket and ratchet, loosen the lug nuts but do not remove them completely yet.

2. Remove the Wheel:

   • After loosening, completely remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel to access the brake components.

Step 4: Remove the Brake Caliper

1. Locate the Caliper Bolts:

   • Look for the bolts securing the brake caliper. These are typically 12mm.

2. Remove the Caliper:

   • Use a 12mm socket to remove the caliper bolts.
   • Carefully slide the caliper off the rotor. Use a brake caliper hanger to support it without stressing the brake line.

Step 5: Replace Brake Pads

1. Remove Old Brake Pads:

   • Take out the old brake pads from the caliper bracket.

2. Compress the Caliper:

   • Use the brake caliper compressor tool to compress the caliper piston. This is necessary to make space for the new, thicker brake pads.

3. Install New Brake Pads:

   • Apply brake grease to the back of the new pads to reduce noise and ensure smooth operation.
   • Place the new pads into the caliper bracket.

Step 6: Inspect and Replace Rotors

1. Remove the Old Rotor:

   • If the rotor is warped or grooved, it should be replaced. Remove any retaining screws using an impact screwdriver if necessary.

2. Install New Rotor:

   • Place the new rotor onto the hub, ensuring it is aligned properly.

Step 7: Reassemble the Brake Components

1. Reattach the Caliper:

   • Slide the caliper over the new pads and rotor.
   • Tighten the caliper bolts securely using the 12mm socket.

2. Reinstall the Wheel:

   • Place the wheel back onto the hub and hand-tighten the lug nuts.

3. Lower the Vehicle:

   • Carefully lower the vehicle from the jack stands and remove the jack.

4. Tighten Lug Nuts:

   • Use the torque wrench to tighten the lug nuts to the manufacturer’s specifications.

Conclusion

Replacing the rear brakes on a 2007-2011 Honda CR-V is a manageable task if you follow these steps carefully. Remember to check for any signs of wear on other components while you have the brakes disassembled. After completing the job, it's advisable to pump the brake pedal a few times before driving to ensure proper brake function. Regular maintenance of your braking system will help enhance safety and performance on the road.