I'm not mechanically inclined but I think it is simple enough to do. My car has NEVER gotten any brake work done on it before and it currently has about 60k miles. I don't race or unnecessarily abuse my car.

I will be replacing just the front pads using new OEM pads. I remember someone mentioning using a C-clamp. Is there a particular size I need to use? Can someone list out the tools and sizes that I will need. Is it NECESSARY to bleed brakes. I get mixed advice from this. Some say only if the brakes feel spongy and some say always bleed them.

If I recall, I will first remove the front tire and unbolt the bolt that keeps the caliper in. Flip over the top and remove the brake pad. Place new brake pad in, use brake grease to prevent squeals and close. Where does the C clamp fit in? Any steps missing?

Like I said, I'm a beginner with basic tools. Any help/diagrams would be greatly appreciated!
-ben

 

use the c-clamps to press the boost back in, you can fit the calipers over the pads back in...
get a 6" clamps...you'll be good...

 

you can just use the backend of a screwdriver to push it back in. it requires some muscle but it goes right in.

 

spare 12" piece of 2x4 will work to push the piston back in. You can also get a brake spreader at autozone for about $5.

 

Don't worry, it's not that hard of a job. Two suggestions, 1) buy a factory service manual for your car. It has diagrams of everything, and really makes jobs much easier, and 2) you may need to use a breaker bar on the caliper bolts. Mine hadn't been touched in a while, and were stuck on pretty good.

Chris

 

its not that big of deal at all but defnitely buy that book, you will use it for as long as you own your car also if you cant get the piston to go back into the caliper just release the presure on the back side of the caliper and that will allow you to push the piston back in with no problem..

 

also the back calipers are not pushed back in... they have to be screwed back in with like the end of a crowbar