how to change drum brakes honda civic

How to Change Drum Brakes on a Honda Civic

Changing drum brakes on a Honda Civic can seem daunting, but with the right tools and a bit of patience, you can do it yourself. This guide will outline the steps required to change the drum brakes effectively.

Tools and Materials Needed

- Jack and jack stands - Lug wrench - Drum brake service kit (including new shoes and hardware) - Brake cleaner - Screwdriver - Rubber mallet - Pliers - Torque wrench

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Safety First Park your Honda Civic on a flat surface and turn on the hazard lights. Engage the parking brake to prevent the car from rolling.

2. Lifting the Vehicle Use the lug wrench to loosen the lug nuts on the rear wheels slightly before jacking the car up. Once the vehicle is elevated with the jack stands securely in place, remove the lug nuts and take off the wheels.

3. Remove the Drum Inspect the drum for retaining screws. If there are any, remove them. Gently tap the drum with a rubber mallet if it doesn't pull off easily. Make sure to check for any rust or debris that might be preventing it from sliding off.

4. Inspect and Remove Old Brake Shoes Once the drum is off, you will see the brake shoes and hardware. Take a moment to inspect everything for wear. Use a screwdriver to remove any retaining clips and then gently pull off the old brake shoes from the backing plate.

5. Install New Brake Shoes Before placing the new shoes, clean the backing plate and other components with brake cleaner. Install the new brake shoes by reversing the removal process, ensuring that all springs and clips are securely attached.

6. Reassemble the Drum Once the new brake shoes are in place, put the drum back on. If you encounter resistance, check to make sure the shoes are properly aligned and not overly extended.

7. Reattach the Wheels Replace the wheels and hand-tighten the lug nuts before lowering the vehicle back to the ground. Once the car is down, use a torque wrench to ensure the lug nuts are tightened to the manufacturer’s specifications.

8. Test Drive Finally, before hitting the road, pump the brake pedal a few times to seat the new shoes properly. Take your Honda Civic for a short test drive to ensure everything is functioning correctly.

Conclusion

Changing drum brakes on your Honda Civic can save you money and give you a sense of accomplishment. By following these steps and ensuring you work safely, you can maintain your vehicle's braking system and ensure it operates smoothly. Always consult your owner’s manual for specific details related to your model year.