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If you’ve ever been into an automobile accident and needed to get your vehicle repaired, then you no doubt likely know how to change brake pads. Most automobile accidents involve large, instantly noticed damages such as skid marks and bumper cracks. Although these damages are always unfortunate, they are easily prevented with proper maintenance of your brakes and other components. When you consider the large expenses and time involved in repairing a dent or scratch on your car’s surface, replacing the damage is often not an option.
The best solution for preventing small dents and scratches is to avoid driving while your car is in motion until you can locate and use a shop that offers services for tires and brakes. There are two types of pads that you can purchase to minimize damage to your wheels and brakes. These are solid rotors pads and lug-style pads. Both types are available at specialty auto parts stores and are simple to install if you have access to a truck of some sort.
Rotors pads, also known as brake pads, provide up to an inch of protection for your rotors and are usually sold as a set. The rotors and brake pads are typically made from either rubber or plastic. Rubber is preferred due to its ability to resist the abrasion caused by road debris, and its longevity. Plastic rotors pads are less expensive than rubber but wear out more quickly. If you choose plastic, you should purchase the minimum amount of tire pressure that is required for safe braking; otherwise, you will be wasting money on unnecessary repairs.
Lug style pads are inexpensive and more affordable than rotors, although they do not offer nearly the level of safety that rubber provides. These pads replace the brake pads as a unit, and you must replace them individually. Depending on the make and model of your vehicle, you will probably want to purchase extra pads to replace those that wear out. Purchasing extra lugs may seem unnecessary, but this is one of the only ways to increase the life of your brakes.
If you have no experience working with auto parts, you should not attempt this task alone. While most stores allow you to purchase replacement pads, most do not have the tools necessary to repair your own brakes. Most of the repair kits that are available from automotive supply stores contain an air compressor, repair adhesive, and wheel grease. It is best to purchase the repair kit that is listed in your vehicle’s manual. If you cannot locate the exact replacement pads that are required for your make and model, you may still be able to find a reputable dealer who sells aftermarket replacement pads.
Changing your own brake pads is not difficult, but does require some manual labor. Typically, a basic understanding of mechanics is required. You should know how to open and close a tire, as well as basic vehicle components like gauges and wires. In order to change the brake pads, you must remove the existing brake pads and place the new ones in their corresponding holes. The new pads will need to be fitted to the old pads using the appropriate bolt and nut combination. You may wish to enlist the help of a friend or family member who has more experience in these matters.