How do you replace brakes pads on 2001 solara?

Answer 1

you'll need: 19, 17 mm sockets

large ratchet (1/2 drive)

c-clamp or brake piston compressor tool

floor jack and jack stands

wire coat hangers

torque wrench

blue locktite

approx a 45min-1hr job depending on experience + the time it takes to have your rotors turned if needed. (about 2.5 hours.)

for the front pads:

jack up each side of the car and break loose the lug nuts.

place the car on jack stands

remove the wheels.

behind the caliper are two 17mm bolts. they are tight, but break them loose and remove them and the caliper comes off.

the old pads simply push out.

hang the calipers on the shocks with wire hangers so they dont stress the brake hoses.

inspect your rotors. if they show excessive wear in any spots, take them and have them turned. most autoparts stores can do this for you.

take your c-clamp or brake piston compressor tool and squeeze the piston on the caliper all the way back in.*

now simply press in the new pads

put blue locktite on the 17mm bolts that hold the caliper in and tighten them very snugly.

put the wheels back on the car. remove jackstands. lower the car.

torque the lug nuts.

now get inside, start the car. press the brake pedal completely down at least 5 times. the first few there will be a lot of travel in the pedal. it should get less and less until it reaches a consistent distance.

congrats! you just saved your self money over what it would have cost to have a brake shop do something you can do your self.

* if brake fluid leaks out of the master cylinder do not be concerned. this normally happens and does not mean you need to bleed the brakes or add brake fluid.

I have never replaced my back brakes. so you might consult a service manual for that information. However, they appear to be pretty standard drum brakes, so look for material on that subject if those need replacing also.

***this goes for all Generation 1 Solaras as far as I know.***