Time: 30 min - 1 hr

Difficulty: moderate

Cost: $40-150 (depending on rotors)

WHY

Brake pads wear and rotors warp. This is evidenced by brake noise in the case of pads, and a pulse felt in the pedal or a shake felt in the steering wheel while braking.

INTERVAL

Brake pads and rotors are replaced on condition as a result of inspection or symptom.

METHOD

To replace front brake pads, you'll need to remove the front wheel and brake caliper on each side. If you're doing rotors too, you'll need to remove the caliper bracket. After installing the new rotor, you'll install the bracket and new pads. Because the new pads are thicker, you'll have to compress the brake caliper piston in order for it to fit over the new pads. As you compress the caliper, make sure the fluid doesn't overflow the brake reservoir as it's forced back into the system. Once everything is installed, use brake cleaner to clean the rotor and pads from any grease or grime that may have been on your hands. Pump the brakes with your foot until the pedal feels firm, check the fluid level, and you're all done.

See the process on a 2002-2006 era Toyota Camry.