How to replace ATV brake pads
If you ride your ATV regularly, your brake pads will eventually wear out—it’s just part of owning and maintaining your machine. Fortunately, replacing brake pads isn’t as complicated as it may sound. With a few basic tools and a little patience, you can do it yourself and save on repair costs.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through the process of replacing ATV brake pads in a simple, user-friendly way—even if you’ve never done it before.
Why Replacing Brake Pads Matters
Brake pads are a critical part of your ATV’s safety system. Over time, they wear down due to friction, and worn-out pads can lead to poor stopping performance, damage to the rotors, or even complete brake failure. Regularly replacing your brake pads ensures:
- Safer rides
- Better control
- Longer lifespan for your rotors
Signs You Need to Replace Your ATV Brake Pads
- Squealing or grinding noises when braking
- Reduced stopping power
- A soft or spongy brake lever or pedal
- Visible wear on the pads (less than 1/8” thick)
Tools and Materials You’ll Need
Before you get started, gather the following:
Tools:
- Socket wrench or Allen key set
- Flathead screwdriver
- C-clamp or brake caliper tool
- Torque wrench (recommended)
- Jack or ATV lift
Supplies:
- New brake pads (check your ATV model)
- Brake cleaner
- Clean rags or paper towels
- Protective gloves and eye protection
Safety First: Prepare Your Work Area
- Park the ATV on a flat, stable surface.
- Turn off the engine and let the brakes cool down.
- Engage the parking brake or block the wheels to prevent movement.
- Wear gloves and safety glasses to protect yourself.
Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing ATV Brake Pads
1. Remove the Wheel (If Required)
Not all ATV models require wheel removal, but many do. Use a jack or ATV lift to raise the wheel, then:
- Loosen and remove the lug nuts.
- Carefully remove the wheel and set it aside.
2. Locate and Remove the Brake Caliper
- Find the brake caliper—usually attached to the rotor.
- Use the appropriate socket or Allen wrench to remove the bolts holding it in place.
- Carefully slide the caliper off the rotor without pulling or straining the brake hose.
3. Remove the Old Brake Pads
- Take a picture of the current brake pad layout for reference.
- Use a screwdriver to gently pry out the old pads.
- Check for uneven wear, cracks, or discoloration.
4. Clean and Inspect the Caliper
- Spray brake cleaner on the caliper and wipe away debris.
- Inspect the caliper and piston for any damage or sticking.
- Lubricate the pad contact points if needed (use brake-specific grease only).
5. Compress the Caliper Piston
- Use a C-clamp or caliper tool to slowly push the piston back into the caliper housing.
- This step creates space for the new, thicker brake pads.
6. Install the New Brake Pads
- Slide the new pads into the caliper using the same position as the old ones.
- Make sure they fit snugly and evenly.
7. Reinstall the Caliper
- Carefully position the caliper back over the rotor with the new pads in place.
- Insert and tighten the bolts securely (torque to manufacturer specs if possible).
8. Reattach the Wheel and Lower the ATV
- Reinstall the wheel if you removed it.
- Hand-tighten the lug nuts, lower the ATV, then fully tighten them in a crisscross pattern.
Post-Replacement Checklist
- Pump the brake lever/pedal to re-seat the brake pads.
- Check for leaks around the caliper.
- Test your brakes at low speed before riding aggressively.
Maintenance Tips for Longer Brake Life
- Rinse off mud and debris after each ride.
- Avoid riding with the brakes constantly applied.
- Inspect your brake pads regularly, especially before long rides or races.
- Replace pads as a pair (left and right side) for balanced braking.
Final Thoughts
Replacing your ATV’s brake pads might seem intimidating, but once you do it yourself, you’ll realize it’s not that hard—and it’s extremely rewarding. Not only do you save money, but you also gain confidence in maintaining your machine.
If at any point you feel unsure, don’t hesitate to consult your owner’s manual or reach out to a professional. Your safety always comes first.
FAQs
Q: How often should I replace ATV brake pads?
A: It depends on how often and where you ride, but generally every 1,000–2,000 miles or when the pad thickness is less than 1/8 inch.
Q: Can I replace just one side’s brake pads?
A: It’s best to replace both sides of the axle (left and right) at the same time for even braking performance.
Q: What if my brakes still squeak after replacement?
A: Clean the rotors thoroughly and ensure the pads are seated correctly. Light squeaking is normal during the break-in period.
