How to Adjust the Rear Disc Brakes
by KateboUpdated July 19, 2023
Rear disc brakes have replaced drum braking systems because they provide faster braking response and they outlast drum brakes. Also, disc brakes are self-adjusting unlike the old drum brakes that had to be manually adjusted. But even though cars with rear disc brakes are self-adjusting, the brakes still benefit from an adjustment periodically, especially right after you've had the brake pads replaced. This will help the brake pads stick to the rotors correctly. You can also adjust your brakes if they feel mushy and you want them firmer.
1. Start the car and put it in reverse
Start the car and put it in reverse.
2. Accelerate the car slowly then press down on the brakes gently
Accelerate the car slowly then press down on the brakes gently.
3. Repeat Step 2 four times or until the brake pedal is higher
Repeat Step 2 four times or until the brake pedal is higher and feels firm to your foot.
4. Drive the car forward and bring it up to a speed of 40 miles per hour
Drive the car forward and bring it up to a speed of 40 miles per hour. Slow down the car by pressing on the brakes until the car is going about 10 MPH.
5. Repeat Step 4 three more times
Repeat Step 4 three more times. Do not bring the car to a complete stop during this process.
6. Stop and park the vehicle
Stop the vehicle and put it in park.
Tips
Ideally, you should perform a brake inspection about every second oil change to check and see if the brake pads are wearing evenly. Remove the wheel and measure the thickness of the pads. They should be at least 3 mm thick. If they are thinner than 3 mm, you need to replace the brake pads.
Video: How to Adjust Rear Disc Brake Caliper Parking Brake Mechanism
Helpful comments on this video:
- Thanks for this, good to know that drag on the pads is okay.. I shimmed my rear disc kit like that and had cycled the piston twice ( I mean theyre loose enough to go over the rotor but tight enough to drag) I wasnt sure if my new setup was too tight against the rotor.. I'd rather be safe than have that pedal go down. I work very slowly when it comes to brakes
- Swapped a 79 disk on to 76 TA. glad i watched this,,, there is also a tab on brake disk that fits in hole of piston.
Tips
- Ideally, you should perform a brake inspection about every second oil change to check and see if the brake pads are wearing evenly. Remove the wheel and measure the thickness of the pads. They should be at least 3 mm thick. If they are thinner than 3 mm, you need to replace the brake pads.
Writer Bio
Katie B. Marsh is a self-published author, article writer, screenwriter, and inventor. After graduating from South Coast College of Court Reporting, she worked as a congressional and freelance court reporter for eight years. She began her writing career in 2005. Her content may be found on amazon.com, booksforsharing.com, and ezinearticles.com. She completed her first screenplay in October 2009.
