If you’re replacing your brake pads, it’s important to get the correct size socket. Different brakes use different sized sockets and tools for removing and installing them.
Depending on the make and model of your car, you may need to use a smaller or larger socket for installing new brakes. When replacing brake pads, always make sure that the NEW pad fits squarely in the caliper bore without any wiggle room.
If there is any movement inside the caliper bore, then you will need to replace both pads and rotors as well.
Contents
What Size Socket for Brake Pads
When you’re replacing brake pads, it’s important to use the correct size socket. This will ensure that the pads are completely replaced and not just fitted into a hole in the rotor.
There are several different sizes of sockets available, so make sure you find one that matches your car’s brakes. It all depends on the type of brake pad that you have and the make and model of your vehicle.
How To Choose the Right Size Socket for Brake Pads
When you’re replacing brake pads, it’s important to choose the right size socket for your vehicle. This will prevent damage to your car or yourself.
Choosing the right size socket for your brake pads can be a pain, but it’s important to get it right in order to avoid any problems down the road.
The wrong size socket will not fit properly and may cause damage to your brakes or rotors. Make sure you select a socket that is compatible with your brake pads and vehicle.
Size of the Pad
Brake pads come in a variety of sizes, so it is important to choose the right size socket for your brake pad.
The correct size will ensure that the pad engages with the rotor effectively and protects your brakes from excessive wear.
Compatibility with Your Vehicle
Certain types of brake pads require different-sized sockets in order to fit properly.
For example, Akebono front disc brakes usually need a 6mm hex wrench to install properly, while Brembo rotors often take a 10mm socket for installation.
Strength and Durability
Socket sizes are also measured in terms of torque or pounds per square inch (PSI).
A higher PSI number means that the socket can handle more force before breaking; this is helpful if you have heavy-duty automotive equipment like wheel bearing hubs or drive shafts installed on your vehicle chassis.
Get an Indicator
If you are unsure of which size socket to buy, getting an indicator can help make things easier.
An indicator comes in different shapes and sizes and attaches easily to the end of your wrench so you know when you have reached the correct torque setting on your pad bolts.
Tool Availability and Storage Space
Some drivers may find it easier to keep all their tools organized by fitting them into one specific area inside their car, such as under the hood or behind the seats.
But this approach has its limitations when it comes to tool availability during emergencies or repairs outside of normal working hours.
If you plan on doing regular maintenance work on your car outside of standard business hours, consider investing in several different sized sockets so that you’re always prepared for whatever situation arises.
Use a Torque Wrench When Adjusting Brake Pads
When adjusting brake pads, use only a torque wrench—not just your fingers—to avoid unnecessary wear on your hands and wrists.
A torque wrench will ensure that all of the nuts are tightened evenly without causing any further damage or distortion to your brakes.
When you’re repairing or replacing brake pads, it’s important to choose the right size socket. This will ensure that the pads are installed correctly and don’t come loose while driving.
There are a variety of different sizes available, so be sure to find one that fits your car’s brakes perfectly.
Maintenance Tips for Brake Pad Sockets
If you’re having trouble stopping your car, it might be time to check the brake pads.
Check each pad for wear and tear, cracks or tears in the fabric, and discoloration from heat or age. If one or more of these conditions are present, it’s likely that the brake pads need to be replaced.
Check for signs of wear and tear
If you notice any sign of wear or tear on your brake pads, it’s time to take a look at them and make sure they are in good condition.
This can include checking the surface texture, looking for cracks or tears, and assessing how well the pad has adhered to the rotor (or disc).
Change brake pads when necessary
When it comes time to replace your brake pads, always change them as a set – this will ensure that all four brakes work effectively together.
Make sure you have a balanced Brake Pad Setter Tool Kit available so you can do this easily and quickly.
Cleaning your brakes regularly
It’s important to clean your brakes every few months using an approved cleaner like Autozone Advanced Brake Care™ Formula.
Use exactly 2 ounces (57 milliliters) per quart (liter) of water mixed with one teaspoon (.5 ounce/14 grams) dishwashing detergent flakes—and then rinse off thoroughly with fresh water before drying with a soft cloth or air-drying if possible.
Checking fluid levels and topping off as needed
Brake pads use a type of brake fluid that is susceptible to drying out over time.
It’s important to check the level of this fluid regularly and top it off as necessary with fresh brake fluid. This will help extend the life of your brakes and improve their performance.
Cleaning & Lubricating Brake Pad Sockets
It’s important to keep your brake pad sockets clean and lubricated for optimal performance.
Dirty or worn-out sockets can cause excessive friction, which can lead to premature wear on your brakes and even fail outright.
Proper installation & adjusting of wheel alignment
A properly installed wheel alignment system not only ensures that your car sits correctly in its suspension, but it also helps ensure proper braking force from each individual wheel due to accurate caster, camber, toe-in/toe-out angles, etc.
Improperly aligned wheels may result in decreased braking power at specific points on the vehicle’s exterior due to incorrect geometry between tire contact patch locations on different wheels.
Causing uneven wear & tear on rotational components inside & outside of parking lot surfaces you park on often.
FAQs
Are Brake Pads a Standard Size?
Brake pads are not a standard size or ideal thickness, but they can be found in a variety of sizes. They are typically between 3/8 and 1/2 inches in diameter.
Are All Brake Caliper Bolts the Same Size?
Brake caliper bolts are not all the same size. If you are replacing your brake caliper, make sure to use the right size.
What Size Are Disc Brake Caliper Bolts?
The size of the disc brake caliper bolts is determined by the size of the brake disc itself.
What Size Are Shimano Rotor Bolts?
The standard size of a rotor bolt is 17mm. However, you might find that some brands use different sizes.
What Are Calipers for Brakes?
Calipers are used for measuring the distance between two points. They are also used for adjusting brakes and other automotive parts.
What Are the Red Brakes Called?
Red Brakes are also used to indicate the use of an anti-lock braking system, which prevents wheel lockup and provides for better stopping power in wet conditions.
Final Words
To make sure the brake pads fit your car, measure the diameter of the socket on the wheel hub using a ruler or measuring tape. If you have metric wheels, use a metric socket; if you have American-style wheels, use an American socket.
The size of the brake pad that fits your car depends on the type of wheel and tire it uses as well as whether or not ABS is activated in your vehicle’s system.
For vehicles with disc brakes, always use pads larger than those recommended for drum brakes because they provide more stopping power and a longer life span You can also find replacement parts for different makes and models at most auto stores or online retailers.
Finally, take care when installing new brake pads by following all safety guidelines provided by your manufacturer.