how to fix the grinding noise when braking on my Honda Civic 9th Generation (2012-2015)

Solution

1. Preparation

• Gather necessary tools and parts.
• Ensure vehicle is parked on a flat surface and engage the parking brake.
• Disconnect the battery to prevent any electrical issues during repair.

2. Remove Wheel

• Tools Required: Jack, jack stands, lug wrench.
• Loosen lug nuts slightly while the vehicle is still on the ground.
• Raise the vehicle using a jack and secure it with jack stands.
• Remove the lug nuts completely and take off the wheel.

3. Inspect and Replace Brake Pads

• Tools Required: Socket set, torque wrench, brake cleaner, gloves.
• Locate the brake caliper and remove the caliper bolts using the socket set.
• Carefully slide the caliper off the rotor and hang it using a bungee cord (do not let it dangle by the brake line).
• Remove the old brake pads from the caliper bracket.
• Inspection: If pads are less than 3mm thick or show uneven wear, replace them.
• Apply brake cleaner to the caliper bracket and rotor to clean any debris.

4. Replace Brake Rotors (if necessary)

• Tools Required: Hammer (if rotors are stuck), rotor puller (if needed).
• If the rotors are scored or below the minimum thickness, remove the rotor by unscrewing any retaining screws.
• Install new rotors by aligning them with the hub and securing them with screws.

5. Reassemble Brake Components

• Install new brake pads into the caliper bracket.
• Compress the brake caliper piston using a caliper tool to fit over the new pads.
• Reattach the caliper over the new pads and tighten the caliper bolts to the manufacturer’s torque specifications.

6. Reinstall Wheel and Lower Vehicle

• Place the wheel back onto the hub and hand-tighten the lug nuts.
• Lower the vehicle off the jack stands using the jack.
• Once on the ground, use the torque wrench to tighten the lug nuts to manufacturer specifications.

7. Final Check

• Reconnect the battery.
• Pump the brake pedal several times to ensure proper brake pad seating.
• Check brake fluid level and top off if necessary.