Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing Your Acura’s Brakes
Note: This guide is for information. If you're unsure about any part of the process or
uncomfortable working on your brakes, it's best to consult a professional technician.
Step 1: Safety First
Park your Acura on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and place wheel chocks behind the rear
wheels. Wear safety gear and ensure your car is completely secure before beginning.
Step 2: Loosen Lug Nuts
Use your lug wrench to slightly loosen the lug nuts on the wheels where you’ll be working — don’t remove
them just yet.
Step 3: Lift the Vehicle
Use a jack to raise the vehicle and place the jack stands securely under the frame. Then remove the
wheels to access the brake components.
Step 4: Remove the Caliper
Locate the brake caliper and remove the bolts that hold it in place using your socket wrench. Carefully
slide the caliper off the rotor. Use a zip tie or bungee cord to hang it from the suspension — never let
it dangle by the brake line.
Step 5: Remove Old Brake Pads
Push old brake pads off the caliper bracket. Note their positioning for reference.
Step 6: Remove the Brake Rotor
If your Acura’s rotors are due for replacement, now is the time. You may need to remove a set screw
holding the rotor in place. If the rotor is stuck due to rust, gently tap it with a rubber mallet to
loosen it.
Step 7: Clean and Prep the Area
Spray brake cleaner on the caliper, bracket, and rotor surface (if reusing). Wipe off any residue and
apply anti-squeal grease to the back of the new pads and contact points.
Step 8: Install New Rotors (If Replacing)
Slide your new OEM rotor from Acura.BernardiParts.com into place and secure it with the set screw, if
applicable.
Step 9: Install New Brake Pads
Slide the new brake pads into the caliper bracket, orienting them in the same direction as the old pads.
Step 10: Compress the Caliper Piston
Use a C-clamp or brake caliper tool to compress the caliper piston back into the housing, gently
creating space for the new, thicker pads.
Step 11: Reinstall the Caliper
Position the caliper over the new pads and securely bolt it back into place.
Step 12: Reinstall the Wheel
Put the wheel back on and hand-tighten the lug nuts.
Step 13: Lower the Vehicle and Torque Lug Nuts
Carefully remove the jack stands and lower the vehicle. Use a torque wrench to tighten the lug nuts to
Acura’s recommended specifications (typically between 80 and 110 ft-lbs, depending on your model).
Step 14: Test Your Brakes
Before driving, pump the brake pedal several times to ensure the brake pads are properly seated and the
pedal feels firm. Take a slow test drive and check for any abnormal sounds