Most Common Brake Installation Mistakes!

Summary

This video highlights common mistakes to avoid when performing a DIY brake job. It covers critical areas like brake pads, rotors, calipers, and the hydraulic system. Key errors include installing brake pads backward, misaligning brake parts, improper lubrication, and neglecting brake fluid care. The video demonstrates the consequences of these mistakes, such as rotor damage, uneven wear, and brake failure. Tips include proper part handling, cleaning, and ensuring the correct fitting of components. It emphasizes taking your time and doing the job right to avoid costly repairs.

Takeaways

• 🚗 Installing brake pads backwards can cause severe damage to the rotor, requiring both new pads and rotors.
• 🔧 Always compare old brake pads with new ones to ensure they match, especially noting any squealers or dimples.
• 💡 Apply grease to the ends of the brake pads to prevent squeaking, but avoid getting any grease on the pad material itself.
• 🧹 Clean the brake caliper bracket and use anti-rattle clips properly to prevent rattling or improper alignment.
• 🔨 When removing the rotor, clean the hub surface thoroughly to avoid pulsation issues caused by dirt or rust.
• 🛠️ Compress the caliper piston slowly to avoid damaging the hydraulic system, and consider opening the bleeder screw while doing so.
• 🔄 Ensure the brake hose is not twisted when reinstalling the caliper to avoid potential rubbing or braking issues.
• ⚠️ Always double-check for leaks after replacing brake hoses or lines and ensure fittings are secure.
• 🛢️ Use the correct brake fluid (DOT 3 or DOT 4), and avoid using fluid from an opened bottle as it can absorb moisture.
• ❌ Mixing oil or other fluids with brake fluid can severely damage the braking system's rubber components, leading to costly repairs.

Q & A

What are the four categories discussed in the video related to brake installation mistakes?

The four categories discussed are brake pads, rotors, calipers, and the hydraulic system.

What happens if you install brake pads backward?

Installing brake pads backward can cause the rotor to groove and become extremely hot, leading to damage that requires replacing both the rotors and the brake pads.

How can you tell if brake pads are installed the wrong way?

You can tell if brake pads are installed incorrectly if they don't sit flat or match the old pads. The pads should look similar to the old ones, and the squealer should be positioned correctly at the top or bottom depending on the brake's orientation.

What are brake pad squealers, and how should they be positioned?

Brake pad squealers are small metal tabs that help indicate when the pads are worn. They should be placed at the top or bottom depending on where the brake pads are mounted, to avoid improper contact with the rotor.

Why is it important to clean the brake caliper bracket and pad slides?

Cleaning the caliper bracket and pad slides prevents the brake pads from sticking or rubbing against the rotor, which could cause uneven wear or rattling sounds while driving.

What should you do if the brake rotor is difficult to remove?

If the brake rotor is difficult to remove, you can use a hammer to gently tap it, apply rust penetrant to loosen it, or tap it from the back, ensuring you avoid damaging the studs.

Why is it important to clean the hub surface before installing a new rotor?

Cleaning the hub surface removes rust or debris that could cause the rotor to sit crooked, leading to pulsation while driving and uneven brake wear.

What are the risks of compressing the caliper piston too quickly?

Compressing the caliper piston too quickly can damage the hydraulic system by sending fluid back into the master cylinder too fast, potentially causing issues in the brake lines or other components.

Why should you open the bleeder screw when compressing the caliper piston?

Opening the bleeder screw allows the brake fluid to escape rather than being pushed back into the reservoir, preventing contamination and making the caliper compression process smoother.

What are the dangers of mixing oil with brake fluid?

Mixing oil with brake fluid can damage the seals and rubber components in the brake system, causing leaks and swelling of parts like the calipers, hoses, ABS unit, and master cylinder.

Why is it important to use the correct brake fluid, and what types are commonly used?

Using the correct brake fluid is essential to avoid damaging the brake system. Most vehicles use DOT 3 or DOT 4 brake fluid, and it's important not to mix other fluids with it, as that could cause system failure.