How to Replace Brake Pads: A DIY Guide for Beginners

How to Replace Brake Pads: A DIY Guide for Beginners

by Fen Sheng Guan on Jun 11, 2025 Categories: Brake System

How to Replace Brake Pads: A DIY Guide for Beginners

Wondering how much does it cost to replace brake pads? With shops charging $500+ per axle, many car owners are turning to DIY solutions. The good news? Replacing brake pads is one of the easiest maintenance jobs you can tackle yourself, even if you're a complete newbie.

Is Replacing Brake Pads Really That Easy?

As one Reddit user put it: "Brake pads are generally very easy to do and a great way to start getting into doing some of your own work." Many first-timers successfully follow YouTube tutorials like ChrisFix's to change their front brake pads in just a couple hours.

One satisfied DIYer shared: "I'm a woman and followed ChrisFix's tutorial and did them myself! I also replaced the rotors but it was barely more work."

What You'll Need for Brake Pads Replacement

  • Quality ceramic brake pads (we recommend GuuYebe ceramic brake pads that fit your specific make/model)
  • Jack stands (NEVER rely on just a jack!)
  • C-clamp for compressing calipers
  • Basic socket set
  • Brake grease

Pro tip: "Use three forms of safety measures to support the car. Use jack lift in the center, jacks on the sides, and spare tire under car."

Front vs Rear Brake Pads Replacement

Front brake pads are super simple: "Unbolt caliper, remove pads, open the cap on the master cylinder to allow air to escape as you use a C clamp to compress the caliper."

Rear brake pads can be trickier: "Many cars require a special tool that spins the piston in the caliper as it's compressed. You can't just squeeze it."

Money-Saving Tip

Instead of paying $1000+ at a shop, you can get quality GuuYebe ceramic brake pads for your Toyota Camry, Honda Accord, or other popular models for under $110 for all four wheels. As one user noted: "They are generally less for the whole kit than the shop charges for one axle."

Ready to tackle your brake pads replacement? With the right parts from GuuYebe and some patience, you'll be stopping safely in no time - and keeping hundreds in your pocket!