how to fix my Honda Civic 9th Generation (2012-2015) rear brakes not working

Honda Civic 9th Generation (2012-2015)

Error Codes

2-4 hours

Time

medium

Difficulty

critical

Severity

4 min read

681 words

⚠️ Safety Warning

This issue requires immediate attention. If you are not experienced with automotive repairs, consult a professional mechanic. Working on critical systems can be dangerous.

Problem Statement

Learn how to diagnose and fix rear brakes not working on Honda Civic 9th Generation (2012-2015). Step-by-step guide with symptoms and solutions.

Affected Component

Brakes

Estimated Time

2-4 hours

⚠️ Safety Warnings

Important safety information - read before proceeding

•Always work in a well-ventilated area

Symptoms

•Brake warning light illuminated on the dashboard
•Reduced braking performance when applying rear brakes
•Unusual noises (squeaking or grinding) from the rear brake area
•Vibration or pulsation felt in the brake pedal
•Uneven tire wear on rear tires
•Fluid leak observed near the rear brake assembly

Diagnostic Steps

1
Inspect the brake fluid level and condition in the master cylinder reservoir.
2
Check for any visible leaks around the rear brake lines and calipers.
3
Use an OBD-II scanner to check for any related error codes.
4
Remove the rear wheel and visually inspect the brake pads, rotors, and calipers for wear or damage.
5
Test the brake pedal feel; check for any sponginess or excessive travel.
6
Inspect the brake hardware for proper installation and any signs of corrosion.

Solution

💡 Expert Tip

For complex repairs like this, consider taking photos at each step. This helps if you need to reverse a step or consult with a mechanic. Also, keep all removed parts organized - you may need to reference them during reassembly.

Verification

After completing the repair, verify that the issue has been resolved:

✓Test the affected component to ensure it functions correctly
✓Check for any error codes or warning lights
✓Monitor the vehicle for a few days to ensure the issue does not recur

Prevention Tips

To prevent this issue from occurring again:

•Follow the manufacturer's recommended maintenance schedule
•Address warning signs early before they develop into major issues
•Use quality parts and fluids recommended for your vehicle
•Keep detailed records of all repairs and maintenance

Tools & Equipment Required

•Lug wrench
•Socket set
•C-clamp or brake caliper tool
•Torque wrench
•Brake bleeder kit or tube

Parts Required

•Rear brake pads
•Rear brake rotors (if necessary)
•Brake fluid

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Symptoms

•Brake warning light illuminated on the dashboard

•Reduced braking performance when applying rear brakes

•Unusual noises (squeaking or grinding) from the rear brake area

•Vibration or pulsation felt in the brake pedal

•Uneven tire wear on rear tires

•Fluid leak observed near the rear brake assembly

Diagnostic Steps

1
Inspect the brake fluid level and condition in the master cylinder reservoir.
2
Check for any visible leaks around the rear brake lines and calipers.
3
Use an OBD-II scanner to check for any related error codes.
4
Remove the rear wheel and visually inspect the brake pads, rotors, and calipers for wear or damage.
5
Test the brake pedal feel; check for any sponginess or excessive travel.
6
Inspect the brake hardware for proper installation and any signs of corrosion.

Solution

1. Preparation

Gather all necessary tools and parts.
Ensure the vehicle is parked on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
Disconnect the battery to avoid any electrical issues.

2. Remove Rear Wheels

Tools Required: Lug wrench
Sub-steps:
1. Loosen the lug nuts slightly while the vehicle is on the ground.
2. Lift the rear of the vehicle using a jack and secure it with jack stands.
3. Completely remove the lug nuts and take off the rear wheels.

3. Inspect and Replace Brake Pads

Tools Required: Socket set, C-clamp or brake caliper tool
Sub-steps:
1. Remove the caliper bolts using the socket set.
2. Carefully slide the caliper off the rotor; support it with a hanger to prevent strain on the brake line.
3. Remove the old brake pads from the caliper bracket.
4. Use the C-clamp or brake caliper tool to compress the caliper piston to make room for new pads.
5. Install the new brake pads into the caliper bracket.

4. Inspect and Replace Brake Rotors (if necessary)

Tools Required: Torque wrench
Sub-steps:
1. Check the thickness of the rotors with a micrometer; replace if below minimum specifications.
2. Remove the caliper bracket if rotors need replacement.
3. Remove the retaining screws (if applicable) and slide off the old rotor.
4. Clean the hub and install the new rotor.
5. Reattach the caliper bracket and torque bolts to manufacturer specifications.

5. Reassemble Components

Tools Required: Torque wrench
Sub-steps:
1. Reinstall the caliper over the new pads and rotor.
2. Tighten the caliper bolts to the specified torque.
3. Reinstall the rear wheels and hand-tighten the lug nuts.
4. Lower the vehicle and then torque the lug nuts to manufacturer specifications.

6. Brake Fluid Check and Bleeding

Tools Required: Brake bleeder kit or tube
Sub-steps:
1. Reconnect the battery and check the brake fluid level; add fluid if necessary.
2. Bleed the brakes starting from the farthest wheel (right rear) to the closest (left front).
3. Ensure there are no air bubbles in the fluid and that the pedal feels firm.