why does my Honda Accord make a grinding noise when I brake

Solution

1. Preparation

• Gather necessary tools and parts.
• Ensure the vehicle is parked on a level surface and the parking brake is engaged.
• Disconnect the battery to prevent any electrical issues while working on the brakes.

2. Remove Wheel

• Tools Required: Socket set, jack, jack stands
• Sub-steps:
  1. Use a jack to raise the vehicle and place jack stands for support.
  2. Remove the lug nuts using a socket wrench and take off the wheel.

3. Inspect and Replace Brake Pads

• Tools Required: Brake cleaner, socket set, torque wrench
• Sub-steps:
  1. Inspect the brake pads for wear; replace if thickness is less than 3mm.
  2. Remove the caliper bolts using a socket set.
  3. Slide the caliper off the rotor and support it with a bungee cord (do not let it dangle).
  4. Remove the old brake pads from the caliper bracket.
  5. Clean the caliper bracket and apply brake lubricant to the contact points.
  6. Install new brake pads in the caliper bracket.

4. Inspect and Replace Brake Rotors (if necessary)

• Tools Required: Brake rotor puller (if needed), torque wrench
• Sub-steps:
  1. Check the rotor for grooves or uneven wear; replace if damaged.
  2. Remove the rotor by unscrewing the retaining screws and pulling it off.
  3. Clean the hub surface with brake cleaner before installing the new rotor.
  4. Install the new rotor and secure it with retaining screws.

5. Reassemble Brake Components

• Tools Required: Torque wrench
• Sub-steps:
  1. Reinstall the caliper over the new brake pads.
  2. Tighten the caliper bolts to the manufacturer's specified torque settings (usually between 20-30 ft-lbs).
  3. Replace the wheel and hand-tighten the lug nuts.
  4. Lower the vehicle and torque the lug nuts to the manufacturer's specifications (usually around 80-100 ft-lbs).

6. Final Checks

• Reconnect the battery and check the brake fluid level, topping off if necessary.
• Pump the brake pedal to ensure proper brake pad seating.