Need to change brake pads back and front

ANSWER : Hi there. Were there shims installed on the old pads? New shims on the new pads? Missing shims can create noise while braking which is why the antiseize worked for a short time. What brand/level of brake pads did your husband install? Usually, the lowest priced pads are the noisiest. The antisieze that he installed is not recommended to be put on brake components as the high temperatures of these parts can cause the lubricant to run and contaminate the pads and rotors. There are specifically designed brake pad shim lubricants designed to withstand these high temperatures; these are the only ones that should be used if needed. I strongly suggest having a qualified technician perform an inspection to avoid replacing unnecessary parts and a possible safety concern. Your Mechanic has several available technicians that can assist you with a brakes are making a noise inspection.

ANSWER : Your vehicle is equipped with brake pad wear sensors, which should illuminate a message on the dash when your pads are worn and due for replacement. However, it’s a good idea to have your brakes inspected by a professional to be certain. The OEM pads for your vehicle are semi-metallic, so you could go with those or upgrade to ceramic pads. Typically, ceramic pads make less noise and produce less brake dust. You’ll want to either machine or replace your rotors when you replace your pads. A professional technician will measure your rotors and determine if they are still thick enough to be machined. If you do need to replace your rotors, any rotor that meets OEM specifications will do.

ANSWER : Hello, thank you for writing in. These situations are understandably questionable. The service providers at a lot of common oil changing and tire repair centers will quote you for a variety of things that can be updated. This does not always mean you are in dire need for more repairs. If braking seems to be harder, spongy, or takes longer, then you have reason to be concerned. Otherwise, you should check the amount of brake pad material left on the calipers. This can be visually inspected without too much trouble. Remove the wheel and physically measure the amount left, compare them to your vehicle specifications. It is a little early to worry about brake fluid or the rotors. However if the brake fluid is low, the rotors are warped from a hard stop, or there are obvious issues you should look into the system further. Only further inspection will confirm or deny the recommendations. For a second inspection, contact our service department to schedule an appointment.

ANSWER : The brake pads are replaced, and the rotors either resurfaced or replaced, when the friction material on the pads has worn down to about 1.5 mm above the steel backing plate of the pad. You can often visually determine the state of wear without even removing the wheels by carefully looking at the pads as they sit in the torque plate. If you want the pads evaluated, simply request a brake inspection and/or ask a mechanic to state about how much pad material is left on your brakes as measured in millimeters. If you are above 1.5 mm, the brakes are not yet worn out. If you have further questions or concerns, do not hesitate to re-contact YourMechanic as we are always here to help you.

ANSWER : Hello, thank you for writing in. While replacing the brake pads and rotors is standard service after they wear down, they would not cause a fluid leak. You likely have two separate brake system issues happening at the same time. The hydraulic brake fluid leak is the cause of the pedal hitting the floor. Without the ability to build hydraulice pressure and control the brake calipers, the brakes do not work. To find what needs to be replaced, you have to find where the fluid is leaking from. From there you can replace the line, valve, or other part which has failed. After the repair is made, you need to bleed the brakes and replace pads or calipers need be. For more help, contact our service department to schedule an appointment.

ANSWER : I would suggest trying to disconnect and reconnect the wiring to the rear lights. I have seen these older Toyota vehicles rear lighting short out on the lights themselves due to the way the light circuit was made on the lamp housing. Look at the housing circuit on the light to see if one is touching another, and that could tell you why it is malfunctioning. There could also be a problem with the brake light switch. If you are not comfortable dealing with wires, I recommend getting in touch with a certified mechanic who can look at your brake light issue for you to see what’s going on.

ANSWER : It’s possible to have someone alter the brake pedal or adapt a brake pedal from a different vehicle. You may call around to some customization shops to see if anyone is interested in taking on the project. But first, I would try reaching out to the selling dealer with your concern – especially since it is a new model. Good luck.

ANSWER : Hello. Thanks for writing in about your Mercedes-Benz ML350. It is recommended to replace it if the rotor surface is worn, damaged, or is too thin. Typically I would always recommend replacing the rotors anytime the pads are changed. By doing so it gives the pads a good flat surface to work on. If you need to have your brake pads and rotors replaced, consider YourMechanic, as a certified technician can come to your home to do so.