How to Replace a Caliper in a Honda Accord

Replacing major parts like brake calipers on a Honda Accord, or any car, is a task not to be taken lightly. If you insist on replacing your Accord's calipers yourself, make sure you know all about the whole car and talk with your mechanic or another expert.

Things You'll Need

  • Allen/socket wrench
  • Tire iron
  • Jack
  • Oil/fluid pan
  • Caliper for Accord
  • Copper washers
  • Small rubber piece

Remove the Old Caliper

  • Drain and discard brake fluid from the master cylinder. You should drain about two-thirds the amount, or to the midway point between the minimum and maximum level.

  • Raise and support the car on a jack stand. Remove the wheel to get to get to the caliper you need.

  • Disconnect the brake hose at the bracket mounting bolt. Plug the line with a piece of plastic to avoid contaminating the fluid.

  • Remove the caliper flange bolts and remove the caliper from the rotor or bracket. Remove the brake pads, shims, and pad retainers.

Install the New Caliper

  • Connect the brake pads, shims and retainers to the new caliper. (You should probably use new ones.) Before connecting, apply a thin coat of assembly paste to the pad sides of pad shims and the back of the pads.

  • Rotate the caliper piston into the cylinder clockwise. Turn the piston back to align the piston cutout with the tab on the inner pad by so the caliper can be installed. Lubricate the boot with rubber grease so the piston boot won't twist.

  • Reconnect the caliper mounting bolts. Connect the brake line hose, using new washers with the banjo bolt.

  • Refill the master cylinder with fresh fluid if needed. Attach the wheel and lower the vehicle.

  • Check the parking brake adjustment. Pump the brake pedal multiple times to set the pads until the pedal feels firm. Test the brakes on the road.