How to replace front brake pads on 2018 Hyundai Elantra

Introduction

This tutorial provides a step-by-step guide on how to replace the front brake pads on a 2018 Hyundai Elantra. Replacing brake pads is a crucial maintenance task that ensures your vehicle's braking system functions effectively, enhancing safety while driving. This guide is designed for DIY enthusiasts and car owners who want to perform this maintenance task themselves.

Step 1: Gather Necessary Tools and Materials

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

• New brake pads
• Brake cleaner
• Lug wrench
• Socket set (including a torque wrench)
• C-clamp or brake caliper tool
• Jack and jack stands
• Safety goggles and gloves

Tip:

Always wear safety gear when working on your vehicle to protect yourself from debris and sharp objects.

Step 2: Prepare the Vehicle

1. Park on a Level Surface: Ensure the car is on a flat surface to prevent rolling.
2. Engage the Parking Brake: This will prevent the car from moving while you work.
3. Loosen the Lug Nuts: Using the lug wrench, slightly loosen the lug nuts on the front wheels but do not remove them completely.

Step 3: Raise the Vehicle

1. Jack Up the Car: Use a hydraulic jack to lift the front of the vehicle.
2. Secure with Jack Stands: Once the car is elevated, place jack stands under the vehicle for safety.

Step 4: Remove the Wheels

• Completely Remove the Lug Nuts: Now that the vehicle is secure, remove the lug nuts and take off the front wheels.

Step 5: Access the Brake Pads

1. Locate the Brake Caliper: The caliper is the component that holds the brake pads and is mounted over the brake rotor.
2. Remove the Caliper Bolts: Using the socket set, remove the bolts securing the caliper.
3. Carefully Lift the Caliper: Once the bolts are removed, lift the caliper off the rotor. Do not let it hang by the brake line; use a bungee cord or rope to secure it.

Step 6: Replace the Brake Pads

1. Remove Old Brake Pads: Slide out the old brake pads from their slots.
2. Clean the Braking Surface: Use brake cleaner to clean the rotor and caliper area to remove dust and debris.
3. Install New Brake Pads: Insert the new brake pads into the caliper in the same orientation as the old ones.

Step 7: Compress the Caliper Piston

• Use a C-Clamp: Place the C-clamp over the caliper and tighten it slowly to push the piston back into the caliper. This will create enough space for the new pads.

Step 8: Reattach the Caliper

1. Position the Caliper Over the New Pads: Carefully place the caliper over the new brake pads.
2. Secure with Caliper Bolts: Reinstall and tighten the caliper bolts using the socket set.

Step 9: Reinstall the Wheels

1. Position the Wheel: Place the wheel back onto the hub.
2. Hand-Tighten the Lug Nuts: Screw the lug nuts back on by hand initially.
3. Lower the Vehicle: Carefully remove the jack stands and lower the car back to the ground.
4. Tighten the Lug Nuts: Use the torque wrench to tighten the lug nuts to the manufacturer’s specifications.

Conclusion

Replacing front brake pads on a 2018 Hyundai Elantra involves several steps, but with the right tools and careful attention to detail, it can be accomplished successfully. Remember to always prioritize safety by wearing appropriate gear and using jack stands. After completing the job, it's a good idea to test drive the vehicle to ensure everything is working properly. If you have any doubts or face difficulties during the process, consult a professional mechanic.