So I have finally gotten around to changing the front brakes on my 2008 Ford Escape.
Let me just say: How do places get away with charging ~$125 for this? I bought high-end brake pads for $60 and installed them with a little guidance AT NIGHT in less than an hour.
… That’s seriously almost $65 an hour for labor, assuming they’re using the same pads I was. Hint: they won’t be.
But seriously. I’m not saying I’m pro at this, but I am saying: sometimes it’s better to get your hands dirty and do the job yourself. You’ll save money, learn something, and maybe have a little bit of fun while you’re at it.
Anyways, here’s the meat and potatoes: pictures!
Thanks again Dan!
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- Wheel removed, showing the caliper on the rotor.
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- The rear side of the caliper, showing the 9mm hex/allen bolt. This is usually covered by a plastic cap, but it’s removed so I can do the work.
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- We supported the caliper from the shocks with a rubber bungee cord. You can see the piston is extended out from the pads being worn down.
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- Another view of the caliper.
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- A view of the bungee cord.
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- The caliper reinstalled with the new pads in place.
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- The view from the inside.
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- Don’t forget the retaining/anti-slip/noise-reducing spring!
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- Ouch. Trying to get one of the 9mm bolts off and I slammed my hand into the shocks. Yeouch!
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- Dan and his dog, with coffee and donuts following the job.
