how to fix the rear brakes on my Honda CR-V Sixth Generation (2023-present) that squeak

Solution

1. Preparation

• Gather all necessary tools and parts.
• Ensure the vehicle is parked on a level surface, and the parking brake is engaged.
• Put on safety goggles and gloves.

2. Remove Wheel

• Sub-step 1: Loosen the lug nuts on the rear wheel using a lug wrench.
• Sub-step 2: Raise the vehicle with a jack and secure it on jack stands.
• Sub-step 3: Remove the lug nuts completely and take off the rear wheel.

3. Inspect and Replace Brake Pads

• Sub-step 1: Remove the brake caliper by unscrewing the caliper bolts using a socket set.
• Sub-step 2: Carefully lift the caliper off the brake rotor and support it using a bungee cord or rope (do not let it hang by the brake line).
• Sub-step 3: Remove the old brake pads by sliding them out of the caliper bracket.
• Sub-step 4: Compare the new brake pads with the old ones for thickness and compatibility.
• Sub-step 5: Install the new brake pads into the caliper bracket.

4. Inspect and Resurface/Replace Rotor

• Sub-step 1: Check the condition of the brake rotor. If it is grooved or worn, consider resurfacing or replacing it.
• Sub-step 2: If resurfacing, use a brake lathe; if replacing, remove the rotor by unscrewing any retaining screws and sliding it off the hub.
• Sub-step 3: Clean the rotor surface with brake cleaner before installation.

5. Reassemble Brake Components

• Sub-step 1: Reinstall the brake caliper over the new pads.
• Sub-step 2: Torque the caliper bolts to the manufacturer’s specifications (typically around 25-35 ft-lbs).
• Sub-step 3: Reattach the wheel and hand-tighten the lug nuts.
• Sub-step 4: Lower the vehicle and fully tighten the lug nuts in a criss-cross pattern to the manufacturer’s torque specification.