The tool you use depends on the rear brake type: rear drum brakes typically require a brake spoon/adjuster tool, while rear disc brakes use a caliper piston retriever or a C-clamp to retract the piston.
Rear brake maintenance varies by vehicle design. This article outlines the common tools used for rear brake service and how they differ between drum and disc configurations, with safety notes and general guidance for selecting the right tool for your car.
Rear brake types and the tools they require
Drum brakes (rear)
Tools below cover typical drum brake service, including adjusting and removing the hardware. Some modern rear drums self-adjust or have simplified mechanisms, which can reduce the number of tools needed.
- Brake spoon or adjuster tool to turn the star wheel and set shoe clearance
- Brake spring pliers to remove and reinstall return springs
- Needle-nose pliers and screwdrivers for small clips and retaining parts
- Hammer or mallet for seating components and tapping parts into place
- Brake cleaner and shop towels to clean parts
- Protective gloves and safety glasses for personal protection
The listed tools help you adjust, remove, and reinstall the drum brake shoes and springs, ensuring proper clearance and operation. Tool needs can vary by vehicle model and drum brake design.
Disc brakes (rear)
Disc brake service at the rear typically centers on retracting the caliper piston and securing the caliper assembly. The following tools are commonly used for rear disc brake work.
- Caliper piston retractor tool or a C-clamp to compress the piston
- Brake pad spreader tool or an appropriate prying tool to reposition pads
- Socket wrench or ratchet set to remove caliper bolts
- Torque wrench to re-tighten caliper mounting bolts to specification
- Brake cleaner and a wire brush for rotor/caliper cleaning
- Flat-head or Torx drivers as needed for specific caliper designs
Because rear disc brake layouts vary across makes and models, consult your vehicle’s service manual for the exact tools and procedures. Using the wrong tool can damage components or compromise safety.
Safety and best practices
Always secure the vehicle with wheel chocks and jack stands before working on brakes. Use the correct torque specs and never work on a hot braking system. If you’re unsure which rear brake type your car uses or you’re not confident performing brake work, seek professional assistance.
Summary
In short, the rear brake toolset depends on whether you have drum or disc brakes. Drum brakes typically require a brake spoon/adjuster tool and spring tools, while disc brakes rely on a caliper piston retriever or C-clamp along with standard hand tools and torque measurement. Always refer to your specific vehicle manual for exact tools and safety guidelines.
What tools do I need to change rear brakes?
- Safety Glasses. If you've ever lied down beneath a vehicle and tried to break a tight bolt loose, you know the feeling of junk falling in your eyes.
- Dust Mask.
- Wrenches.
- Allen Wrenches, Hex Keys, Torx and Allen Sockets.
- Ratchet and Socket Set.
- Screwdriver Set.
- Jack and Jack Stands.
- Lug Wrench.
What tools do you need to swap brake pads?
As far as tools, you'll want to round up a jack and jack stands, a lug wrench, C-clamp or caliper spreader tool, and a basic tool set. Many calipers require a Torx or Allen bit to remove the caliper bolts, so check to make sure that you have the correct tool before beginning the job.
What size socket to take off rotors?
To remove front brake rotors, typically a 13mm or 15mm socket is needed for caliper bolts, but sizes vary by vehicle. Use a breaker bar for stubborn bolts. After removing caliper bolts, support the caliper to avoid strain on brake lines. If the rotor is stuck, gently tap with a rubber mallet to loosen rust bonds.
How much do brake pads cost for a Mazda CX-5?
The average price for a 2021 Mazda CX-5 Brake Pads and Shoe at Advance Auto Parts is around $71.94, with a range that starts at $33.99 and goes up to $106.99.