Mitsubishi Outlander 2017: Rear Brake Pad Replacement

2017 Mitsubishi Outlander: Rear Brake Pad Replacement Guide

The rear brake pads on your 2017 Mitsubishi Outlander play a crucial role in your vehicle's stopping power. Over time, like all wear items, they will degrade and require replacement. Ignoring worn brake pads can lead to reduced braking performance, increased stopping distances, and potentially more serious and expensive damage to other braking system components, such as the brake caliper and rotor. This guide will walk you through the process of replacing your rear brake pads, ensuring your Outlander remains safe to drive.

Understanding Brake Pad Wear and Symptoms

Brake pads are designed to wear down gradually. However, certain signs indicate they are nearing the end of their service life and need immediate attention. The most common indicators include:

• Squealing or Grinding Noises: Most brake pads have a wear indicator, a small metal tab that scrapes against the rotor when the pad material is low, producing a high-pitched squeal when you brake. A grinding noise often indicates that the pad material has completely worn away, and the metal backing plate is in contact with the rotor, which can cause significant damage.
• Increased Stopping Distance: If you notice your vehicle taking longer to stop than usual, your brake pads may be worn.
• Spongy or Soft Brake Pedal: A brake pedal that feels soft or spongy, or sinks further towards the floor when you apply pressure, could indicate worn pads or other brake system issues like air in the brake lines.
• Vibrations: While often associated with warped rotors, unevenly worn brake pads can also contribute to vibrations felt through the brake pedal or steering wheel during braking.
• Visual Inspection: Periodically, you can visually inspect the brake pads through the spokes of your wheels. Look for a pad thickness of less than approximately 3mm (1/8 inch). If the friction material is thin and worn, it's time for a replacement.

Tools and Parts Needed

Before embarking on this task, ensure you have all the necessary tools and parts readily available. This will streamline the process and prevent frustrating interruptions.

Essential Tools:

• Jack and Jack Stands: For safely lifting and supporting the vehicle. Never rely solely on a jack.
• Lug Wrench: To remove and install the wheel nuts.
• Socket Set and Ratchet: Specifically, you'll likely need sockets for the caliper mounting bolts and bracket bolts. Common sizes include 12mm, 14mm, or 17mm, but it's best to confirm for your specific vehicle.
• C-Clamp or Brake Caliper Piston Tool: To retract the brake caliper pistons.
• Phillips Head Screwdriver: As mentioned in the provided information, though often less critical for the caliper itself.
• Wire Brush: For cleaning brake components, especially the caliper bracket and mounting points.
• Brake Cleaner: To clean brake dust and grime.
• Gloves: To protect your hands from brake dust and grease.
• Safety Glasses: To protect your eyes from debris.
• Torque Wrench: For tightening lug nuts and caliper bolts to the manufacturer's specifications.
• Brake Fluid (DOT 3 or DOT 4, check your owner's manual): You may need to top this up or replace it if the level drops significantly.

Replacement Parts:

• Rear Brake Pads: Ensure you purchase the correct pads for your 2017 Mitsubishi Outlander. It's advisable to buy a reputable brand.
• Optional: Brake Lubricant: A high-temperature brake grease for the back of the pads and caliper slide pins.
• Optional: Anti-squeal Shims: Some brake pad kits come with these; they help prevent noise.

Step-by-Step Brake Pad Replacement

Changing your rear brake pads is a manageable DIY task for those with some mechanical aptitude. Always prioritize safety.

1. Prepare the Vehicle

Park your Mitsubishi Outlander on a flat, level surface. Engage the parking brake firmly. Loosen the lug nuts on the rear wheels slightly before jacking up the vehicle. Then, use the jack to lift the rear of the vehicle and place jack stands securely under the designated support points. Lower the vehicle onto the jack stands. Remove the wheels completely.

2. Access the Brake Caliper

Locate the rear brake caliper assembly. You will see the brake rotor behind it. The caliper is typically held in place by two mounting bolts. These bolts often have rubber dust boots on them. Remove these bolts using the appropriate socket size. Once the bolts are removed, you should be able to pivot the caliper upwards or remove it entirely. If the caliper is difficult to move, it might be seized, which is a separate issue requiring attention. The provided text mentions pivoting the caliper up to slide it out from between the rotor and pad, which is a common method.

3. Remove Old Brake Pads

With the caliper out of the way, you can now remove the old brake pads. They are usually held in place by retaining clips or simply rest in the caliper bracket. Carefully slide the old pads out. Note their orientation, as the new pads will need to be installed in the same manner. Some pads may have small metal clips that need to be transferred to the new pads.

4. Retract the Caliper Pistons

This is a critical step. As brake pads wear down, the caliper pistons extend further out. To fit the new, thicker pads, you'll need to push these pistons back into the caliper body. You can do this using a C-clamp, placing the old brake pad against the piston to distribute pressure evenly, and slowly tightening the clamp. Alternatively, a dedicated brake caliper piston tool can be used. As you retract the pistons, keep an eye on the brake fluid reservoir under the bonnet. The fluid level will rise, so you may need to remove a small amount of fluid with a turkey baster or syringe to prevent overflow. Be careful not to let the reservoir become empty, as this can introduce air into the system.

5. Clean and Inspect Components

Use a wire brush to clean the caliper bracket where the brake pads sit. Remove any rust, dirt, or old lubricant. A clean surface ensures the new pads move freely. Inspect the caliper slide pins for smooth operation and re-lubricate them with brake lubricant if necessary. Also, check the condition of the brake rotor for any deep grooves, scoring, or signs of warping. If the rotor is damaged, it should be replaced or resurfaced.

6. Install New Brake Pads

Apply a small amount of brake lubricant to the back of the new brake pads and any metal shims or clips. This helps prevent squeaking. Carefully slide the new brake pads into the caliper bracket, ensuring they are seated correctly and aligned properly. The provided text emphasizes the importance of alignment to prevent future stopping issues, especially in adverse conditions.

7. Reassemble the Caliper

Carefully lower the caliper back over the new brake pads and rotor. Reinstall the caliper mounting bolts and tighten them to the manufacturer's specified torque. Do not overtighten, as this can strip the threads. If you removed any retaining clips, ensure they are securely in place.

8. Reinstall the Wheel and Lower the Vehicle

Place the wheel back onto the hub and thread the lug nuts on by hand. Lower the vehicle off the jack stands. Once the vehicle is on the ground, tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern to the specified torque using a torque wrench. Repeat this entire process for the other side.

9. Test the Brakes

Before driving the vehicle normally, it's crucial to pump the brake pedal several times to ensure the pistons are extended and the pedal feels firm. This also seats the new pads against the rotors. Then, carefully test the brakes at a low speed in a safe, open area, such as an empty car park. Gradually increase your speed and braking intensity to bed in the new pads. This process helps the pads and rotors mate properly, ensuring optimal braking performance.

Cost of Brake Caliper Replacement

The initial query asked about the cost of a brake caliper. While this guide focuses on brake pads, it's important to understand caliper costs. A seized or malfunctioning brake caliper can significantly impact braking performance and often needs replacement. The cost to replace a brake caliper can vary widely based on the vehicle, the brand of the caliper, and whether you opt for a new, remanufactured, or used part. Typically, a brake caliper can cost anywhere from £100 to £300 or more for the part alone. Labour costs for replacement can add another £100-£200, bringing the total to anywhere from £200 to £500+ per caliper. The provided text mentions a general cost of around £100 to replace brake calipers, which may refer to the labour cost or a very basic, remanufactured part, and might be an underestimate for a 2017 Mitsubishi Outlander.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: What does a seized caliper sound like?

A: A seized caliper often manifests as a constant scraping or grinding noise, even when the brakes are not applied. It can also cause the car to pull to one side during braking or when driving straight. A metal-on-metal screeching can also occur, especially if the brake pads are also severely worn.

Q: Why can't I compress my brake caliper?

A: The most common reason is corrosion or rust buildup on the caliper piston or the bore it sits in. If the caliper has been exposed to moisture and salt for an extended period, rust can seize the piston. This often requires the caliper to be disassembled, cleaned, and potentially rebuilt, or replaced entirely.

Q: Can I change my own rear brake pads?

A: Yes, with the right tools, a bit of mechanical knowledge, and careful attention to safety procedures, you can change your own rear brake pads. If you are unsure at any stage, it's always best to consult a professional mechanic.

Q: What happens when a caliper locks up?

A: When a caliper locks up, it means the piston(s) are stuck in the extended position, keeping the brake pads constantly applied to the rotor. This can prevent the wheel from rotating freely, causing the vehicle to drag or even refuse to move. It can also lead to overheating of the brake components, rapid wear of the pads and rotor, and a significant reduction in braking effectiveness, potentially leading to an accident.

Q: How much does it cost to replace brake calipers?

A: As mentioned earlier, the cost can range significantly. For a 2017 Mitsubishi Outlander, expect the part to cost between £100 and £300+, with labour adding another £100-£200 per caliper. This means a full replacement of both rear calipers could be upwards of £400-£1000.

Conclusion

Maintaining your 2017 Mitsubishi Outlander's braking system is paramount for your safety. Regularly inspecting your rear brake pads and replacing them when necessary will ensure optimal stopping power. While the process of changing the pads is achievable for a DIY enthusiast, understanding the potential issues with components like brake calipers and their associated costs is also important. If you notice any of the warning signs of worn brakes or suspect a problem with your calipers, do not hesitate to seek professional assistance to keep your Outlander performing safely on the road.

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