how to tell if my Honda Accord brakes need replacing

Solution

1. Preparation

• Tools Required: Jack, jack stands, lug wrench, brake cleaner, micrometer, safety goggles, gloves.
• Park the vehicle on a level surface and turn off the engine.
• Loosen lug nuts on the wheels where brakes will be inspected but do not remove them.

2. Lift the Vehicle

• Use a jack to lift the vehicle and secure it with jack stands.
• Remove the lug nuts and wheels to access the brake components.

3. Inspect Brake Pads

• Remove the caliper bolts using a socket set.
• Carefully lift the caliper off the rotor and support it without stretching the brake line.
• Check the thickness of the brake pads; if less than 1/4 inch, replace them.
• Look for signs of uneven wear, cracking, or glazing.

4. Inspect Rotors

• Measure the rotor thickness with a micrometer.
• If the thickness is below the manufacturer's minimum specification or if the rotor is warped, replace the rotors.
• Clean the rotor surface with brake cleaner before reassembly.

5. Reassemble

• Reinstall the caliper over the new or inspected brake pads.
• Tighten caliper bolts to manufacturer specifications (typically around 20-30 ft-lbs, but check service manual).
• Reattach the wheel and hand-tighten the lug nuts.
• Lower the vehicle and torque the lug nuts to the manufacturer’s specification (usually around 80-100 ft-lbs).