How to Replace Disc Brake Pads

In plain English

Disc pads are held in the caliper by a pin or bolt, often with a spring between them. Pads must match your brake model exactly, so check the model name printed on the caliper. New pads need bedding in before they reach full power.

Watch how it's done

Video by Park Tool. It may show a regular bike: on an e-bike, switch off and remove the battery first, and unplug the motor cable before taking off a hub-motor wheel.

Work from the top. Steps go from free and easy to shop jobs. Switch the bike off before touching any connector. Tick each step as you go. Your progress is saved on this device.

1. 1Switch off and remove the batteryFree Turn the display off, then take the battery out of its mount (or unplug it). Do this before touching any wires, brakes near the motor, or the rear wheel.
2. 2Find your brake modelFree Read the model name on the brake caliper and buy pads made for that model.
3. 3Remove the old padsEasy Take the wheel out if needed. Remove the clip and pin (or bolt) holding the pads, then slide the pads and spring out. Note how the spring sits.
4. 4Push the pistons backEasy Gently push the pistons fully back into the caliper with a plastic tire lever. Don't use a screwdriver, which can damage them.
5. 5Fit the new padsEasy Put the spring between the new pads exactly like the old ones, slide them in, and refit the pin and clip. Refit the wheel and squeeze the lever a few times until it firms up.
6. 6Bed them inEasy Ride at moderate speed and brake firmly to walking pace 10 to 20 times on a safe road. Don't rely on full braking until this is done.
7. 7Have the brakes servicedShop job A shop can bleed hydraulic brakes, replace hoses and cables, and check everything is safe. Don't ride until the brakes work properly.

Parts you might need

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Only buy a part if the free steps didn't fix it. Always match the voltage and connector type to your bike.

• Brake pads

  Must match your brake model exactly (the model name is printed on the brake caliper).

  Link coming soon

• Tire levers

  Plastic levers that pry a tire off the rim without damaging it.

  Link coming soon

• Bike multi-tool or hex key set

  Fits nearly every bolt on a bike. Useful for almost every guide here.

  Link coming soon

• Disc brake cleaner or isopropyl alcohol

  Removes oil and dirt from brake rotors without leaving residue.

  Link coming soon