How to Change Brake Pads on a Mazda

If you’re looking for the next DIY car care project to take on, consider learning how to change your Mazda brakes pads. Typically, it’s recommended that you should change your brake pads every 25,000 to 70,000 miles. While this is a wide range, the lifespan of brake pads can vary depending on your driving habits around Appleton. Be sure to check your owner’s manual for your model’s maintenance schedule. If it’s time to change your brake pads, read on with Holiday Mazda to learn how to change brake pads on a Mazda. Don’t hesitate to contact us if you have any questions!

Parts and Tool Needed to Change Mazda Brake Pads

While changing your Mazda brake pads at your Oshkosh-area home can be a straightforward process, it’s important to carefully perform the steps with the proper parts and tools to protect yourself and your Mazda model. It’s a good idea to change the brake pads and rotors at the same time. To find the right brake pads and brake rotors for your Mazda model, reach out to the Holiday Mazda parts center to find the OEM parts. Take a look at some of the other tools you’ll need for replacing your brake pads:

• Disposable mechanic’s gloves to protect your hands 
• Floor Jack
• Jack Stands
• Brake Tool
• New Brake Pads
• Brake Grease
• Socket Wrench
• Tire Iron

Steps for How to Change Brake Pads

Before learning how to change the brake pads on a Mazda, make sure it’s time to change the brake pads. They’ll most likely need to be changed if you observe squealing, squeaking and grinding noises, notice your car pulls to one side when tapping the brakes, or if you notice a bouncing sensation when coming to a stop. When your brakes see wear, follow these steps for how to change brake pads on a Mazda:

1. Jack up the Car: Start by loosening the lug nuts on the wheel you’re working on without completely removing them. Place the jack where it is safe to do so, and once you’re able to, place a jack stand underneath to support the weight of the vehicle.
2. Remove the Lug Nuts and Caliper Bolts: Remove the lug nuts and tire, and set them safely to the side. Once removed, you should be able to see the brake caliper assembly and rotor. On the interior of the caliper assembly, you’ll notice the bolts that secure it. Using a ratchet and socket set to remove them. It will still be attached by wires, so place them on top of the rotor or out of the way while ensuring they are still connected and don’t hang by the wires. 
3. Remove the Old Brake Pads: Remove the brake pads from both sides of your brake rotor, making sure to note the position of the pads for the proper position of how to place the new ones. Take the time to inspect the clips holding them in place. If they are damaged, use the clips that came with your new brake pads or locate the proper replacements before installing your new pads. 
4. Install the New Brake Pads: On your new brake pads, apply a dime-sized amount of brake grease to the metal plates on the back without getting grease on the front of the pads or on your rotors, as these rely on friction to work properly. Install the new pads in the same position of your old ones. Consult your vehicle’s owners manual for position guidance.
5. Adjust the Caliper Assembly: Once the new brake pads are secured, you’ll need to re-install the caliper assembly to fit your new brake pads. Start by putting one of the old brake pads inside the caliper assembly, then, position it against the circular piston and use the brake tool to tighten it against the old brake pads until it creates a firm fit. This adjusts it so the caliper assembly should fit over your new brake pads. From there, carefully put the caliper assembly back in place, and tighten the bolts using your hands. Finish tightening with a socket wrench. 
6. Replace Your Tire: Put your tire back in place and tighten the lug nuts by hand. Lower the car from the jack standing using the jack, and once the vehicle is back on the ground, use the tire iron to secure your lug nuts in place.

Turn to Holiday Mazda for Excellent Service! 

Your Mazda brake pads ensure you’re stopping safely on the roads around Beaver Dam. If now isn’t the right time to perform DIY car care, the talented team in the Holiday Mazda service center are ready to provide you with excellent service. Be sure to take a look at our service and part specials, so you can save on your next Mazda Maintenance.