How to Change the Brake Pads on a 1998 Toyota Celica

There are three common signs of brake wear that can help you tell whether your brakes need to be replaced. The first is a consistent grinding sound as you drive or stop. The second is if the brakes grab, or stop abruptly when they are used. The third sign is a squealing sound that is produced as you drive. If you observe any of these signs, it is probably time to change your brakes.

Difficulty: Moderately EasyInstructionsThings You'll Need:

Tire iron
Wood blocks
Floor jack
Jack stands
Socket wrench
Rope
C-clamp

Step 1
Loosen all the lug nuts on the tires with the tire iron. Set the wood blocks in front of the tires that you will not be removing. Remember to only ever lift one end of the vehicle up at one time, for your own safety.
Step 2
Set the jack underneath the axle of the car. Raise it up until the tire has left the ground, with at least two inches of clearance. Set the jack stand under the axle to support the car. Remove the tire.
Step 3
Loosen the bottom restraining bolt on the brake caliper mounting bracket with the socket wrench. The mounting bracket is attached to the rotor and is crescent shaped. Hang the bracket in the wheel well with the rope so that there is no strain or stress on the brake line protruding from the rear of the bracket.
Step 4
Pull the brake pads out of the mounting bracket.
Step 5
Compress the brake caliper cylinder in the center of the mounting bracket by placing the c-clamp on it. Set the stationary end of the clamp against the rear of the bracket and the movable end of the clamp against the cylinder. Compress it until it is flat.
Step 6
Set the new brake pad into the slot where the old one was. Make sure that the black brake material on the pads is facing toward the rotor.
Step 7
Bolt the bracket back onto the rotor along with the tire. Lower the vehicle and tighten all the lug nuts with the tire iron.