2015-2020 Acura TLX Front & Rear Brake Replacement

Introduction

This tutorial provides a comprehensive guide for replacing the front and rear brakes and rotors on a 2015-2020 Acura TLX. Whether you’re a DIY enthusiast or just looking to save on repair costs, this step-by-step guide will walk you through the entire process, including necessary tools, torque specifications, and common pitfalls to avoid.

Step 1: Gather Necessary Tools and Materials

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

• Basic hand tools: socket set, wrenches, screwdrivers
• Torque wrench
• Brake pads and rotors for both front and rear
• Brake cleaner
• Caliper tool (for compressing brake calipers)
• Jack and jack stands
• Safety goggles and gloves

Practical Tip

Always work in a well-ventilated area and wear safety gear to protect yourself from debris and chemical exposure.

Step 2: Prepare the Vehicle

1. Park the vehicle on a flat surface.
2. Engage the parking brake and block the rear wheels to prevent rolling.
3. Using a jack, lift the front or rear of the vehicle (depending on which brakes you’re replacing first) and secure it with jack stands.

Step 3: Remove the Wheels

1. Loosen the lug nuts slightly while the wheel is still on the ground.
2. Remove the lug nuts completely after the vehicle is lifted.
3. Take off the wheel and set it aside.

Step 4: Remove the Brake Caliper

1. Locate the caliper mounting bolts (typically two per caliper).
2. Use a socket or wrench to remove the bolts.
3. Carefully slide the caliper off the rotor and support it with a bungee cord or hang it to avoid straining the brake line.

Common Pitfall

Do not let the caliper hang by the brake line; this can cause damage.

Step 5: Replace Brake Pads

1. Remove the old brake pads from the caliper bracket.
2. Use a caliper tool to compress the caliper piston back into the housing.
3. Install the new brake pads into the bracket.

Step 6: Remove and Replace the Brake Rotor

1. If applicable, remove any retaining screws holding the rotor in place.
2. Slide the old rotor off the hub.
3. Clean the hub surface with brake cleaner to remove any rust or debris.
4. Position the new rotor onto the hub.

Torque Specifications

• Ensure you follow the specific torque specs for your model when re-installing components. Typically, caliper bolts should be torqued to around 80-90 ft-lbs.

Step 7: Reinstall the Brake Caliper

1. Slide the caliper back over the new pads and rotor.
2. Reinstall the caliper mounting bolts and tighten to the specified torque.

Step 8: Reinstall the Wheel

1. Place the wheel back onto the hub.
2. Hand-tighten the lug nuts, then lower the vehicle slightly to secure the wheel.
3. Use a torque wrench to tighten the lug nuts to the manufacturer’s specifications.

Step 9: Repeat for Other Side

1. Follow the same steps for the other front or rear brakes as needed.

Conclusion

Replacing the front and rear brakes on a 2015-2020 Acura TLX is a straightforward process if you follow these steps carefully. Make sure to check your work and ensure everything is tightened to the proper torque specifications. After completing the installation, pump the brake pedal a few times to ensure the brakes are seated properly before driving. If you encounter any issues, consider consulting a professional mechanic or referring back to this guide for clarification. Enjoy your newly updated brakes!