Replacing the Brakes Honda CR-V – Brake System

One of the most important components of any vehicle is its Brake system, so taking care of it is critical. Replacing your Brakes is not difficult and is something you can do at home. It can take some time and it can get a little messy, but you should be able to finish the job in an afternoon, barring complications. If needed, do a VIN lookup to ensure you get the right replacement parts. Once you have the components, follow these steps for replacing the brakes on your Honda CR-V.

Signs of Failing Brakes

Brakes cause friction on tires — that’s their job. It’s also why they wear out. Worn brakes are not only dangerous but can lead to damage of other parts. Don’t ignore the warning light for new brakes. In addition, watch and listen for screeching or grinding when you press the brake pedal, a vibration in the steering wheel or pedal, or taking a longer distance than normal to stop your vehicle. These are all signs that brakes may need replacement.

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Step-By-Step Brake Replacement

Always use jack stands when you work on a lifted vehicle to ensure your safety. Consult the owner’s manual for lift points and place a jack stand under each point. Once your Honda is safely lifted, follow these steps to swap out the brakes.

• Step 1: Remove the lug nuts, then tires.

  If you are doing this task without an air compressor and impact gun, it will be easier if you loosen the lug nuts before lifting the vehicle.

• Step 2: Remove the brake caliper.

  For really tight nuts and bolts, try spraying penetrating oil on them and give it time to work.

• Step 3: Remove the brake rotor.

  Remove the screws holding the rotor on the hub. An impact screwdriver is the best tool for this job.

• Step 4: Turn the rotors.

  An auto shop can turn the rotors for you following the maker’s minimum specs for thickness. To tackle this yourself, learn more about how to replace brake rotors.

• Step 5: Remove worn pads.

  Take old pads out of the brake caliper bracket. Take off old grease and re-lubricate.

• Step 6: Install new pads.

  Place new brake pads on the bracket, taking care to ensure they can move freely.

• Step 7: Replace caliper bracket and rotor.

  Rotate the rotor, examining it for ease of movement or mounting that is out of alignment.

• Step 8: Compress caliper piston.

  You can use an old brake pad and a C-clamp to compress the piston before replacing the caliper in the bracket. Lubricate with a silicone spray.

• Step 9: Re-mount tires.

  Replace the tires and torque lug nuts to the manufacturer’s specs.

• Step 10: Final steps.

  Lower the CR-V and start the engine. Pump the brakes first to help build pressure in the system and double check the brake fluid level.

If you don’t mind giving up a day of your weekend and want to save on the cost of a professional brake job, replacing the brakes on your CR-V is something you can do yourself. For help with a VIN lookup or other advice on car parts and repair, stop by your local auto store.

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