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Changing the brake pads on a Ford Focus

  • 20-05-2009 11:00am
    #1
    John_Mc
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 2,793 ✭✭✭


    Hi,

    My front brakes are beginning to squeak so I believe the pads need to be changed. Always one for saving money, I'd like to do this myself if it's not too hard and the savings make it worthwhile.

    I have the Haynes Manual and have read the instructions, and there seems to be a bit to doing it. I also don't own axle stands so would need to factor that into the cost.

    How much would it cost to get a garage to do this for me?

    Thanks in advance :)


Comments

  • #2
    Henry Ford III
    Moderators, Business & Finance Moderators Posts: 17,861 Mod ✭✭✭✭Henry Ford III


    Inspect the pads visually. How much "meat" is left on them?

    Changing pads is simple enough, but you'd need to check the condition of the discs, hoses and callipers too.

    30 mins work for a decent mechanic.


  • #3
    John_Mc
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 2,793 ✭✭✭John_Mc


    Henry Ford III wrote: »
    Inspect the pads visually. How much "meat" is left on them?

    Changing pads is simple enough, but you'd need to check the condition of the discs, hoses and callipers too.

    30 mins work for a decent mechanic.

    Thanks for the reply. Could you give a ballpark figure as to the going rate for a mechanic to replace them for me?


  • #4
    Hal1
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 8,720 ✭✭✭Hal1


    I was quoted €80 for this job, so I done it myself instead. Following the guide attached. I didn't need axel stands as you don't go underneath the car to do this. You will get a bit dirty and will take you about 1 hour the first time. :) Check the brake discs for wear, if there is a deep rim on them they will need changing too.


  • #5
    John_Mc
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 2,793 ✭✭✭John_Mc


    Thanks very much, will give it a go myself :)


  • #6
    biko
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 81,220 ✭✭✭✭biko


    Check youtube and videojug et al
    Plenty of good vids there on how to do this job.

    Remember to use some copper grease on the back of the pads (not the side towards the disc!) so they won't grind against the caliper.

    Pads are easy but if you need to change brake hoses and bleed the brakes it's a bit trickier and can require another person helping (or use a bleed kit)


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  • #7
    Muckie
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 1,763 ✭✭✭Muckie


    A bunge cord is handy to tie/hold the caliper up out of the way,

    not have it hanging down incase it puts pressure on the brake line.

    Also buy a tube of copper grease, smear a little bit on the back of the

    new shoe as it goes onto the caliper. Open the brake reservoir,put an old

    rag around this because once the new shoes are on the reservoir will

    rise, might over flow abit. Take your time and good luck.


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