11/08/2004
When embarking on the task of replacing your vehicle's brake pads, a common question that arises is whether the new pads will come supplied with the necessary replacement clips. This seemingly small detail can have a significant impact on the overall efficiency and safety of your braking system. Understanding what's typically included in a brake pad kit is crucial for a smooth and successful DIY repair or for ensuring your mechanic has everything they need. Let's delve into the world of brake pad hardware and shed some light on this frequently asked question.
The Importance of Brake Pad Hardware
Brake pads are the critical component that creates friction against the brake disc (rotor) to slow down or stop your vehicle. However, they don't just float freely in the caliper. They are held in place and guided by a series of clips and hardware. These small, often overlooked parts play a vital role in the proper functioning of your brakes. They ensure the pads are seated correctly, allow for smooth movement, prevent rattling, and contribute to even wear.
The primary pieces of hardware associated with brake pads include:
- Anti-rattle clips (or shims): These are thin, often metallic or coated pieces that sit between the brake pad and the caliper piston or bracket. Their main purpose is to absorb vibrations, thus preventing that annoying squealing or rattling noise, especially during braking or when the brakes are applied lightly.
- Hardware clips (or mounting clips): These are typically made of spring steel and are designed to hold the brake pad in its correct position within the brake caliper bracket. They often have a specific shape to ensure proper retention and allow for slight movement, which is essential for the pad to operate correctly.
Do New Brake Pads Always Come with Replacement Clips?
This is where the confusion often lies. The short answer is: it depends. While it would be ideal if every brake pad set came with all the necessary hardware, this is not always the case. The inclusion of replacement clips and hardware in a brake pad box is largely determined by the manufacturer and the specific type of brake pad and vehicle application.
Factors Influencing Hardware Inclusion:
- Manufacturer's Strategy: Some brake pad manufacturers include a comprehensive hardware kit with their premium or performance lines, recognising the importance of these components for optimal performance and longevity. Others may offer a more basic package, expecting the user to reuse existing hardware or purchase it separately.
- Vehicle Design: Certain vehicle designs might use more robust or integrated hardware that is less prone to wear or damage, making reuse more feasible. In other cases, the original hardware might be designed to be single-use or is more susceptible to corrosion and damage during removal.
- Aftermarket vs. OEM: Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) brake pads are more likely to come with all the necessary hardware as they are designed to be a direct replacement for the factory parts. Aftermarket pads, particularly budget-friendly options, might omit certain hardware to keep costs down.
- Types of Clips: Often, the thin anti-rattle shims are integrated into the brake pad itself (bonded or coated). In these instances, separate replacement shims might not be included as they are not a separate component to be replaced. The more substantial spring steel hardware clips, however, are more commonly offered as replacements.
What to Expect in a Brake Pad Box
When you purchase a set of brake pads, you might find:
- Just the brake pads: This is the most basic offering, and it means you'll need to assess your existing hardware for reusability.
- Brake pads with integrated shims: The shims are already attached to the back of the brake pads.
- Brake pads with a separate hardware kit: This is the ideal scenario, where you receive the pads along with new anti-rattle clips and potentially new mounting hardware.
It's always best to carefully inspect the contents of the brake pad box upon purchase. If you're unsure, check the product description or packaging. Many reputable aftermarket brands will clearly state if a hardware kit is included.
When to Replace Brake Pad Hardware
Even if your new brake pads don't come with replacement clips, there are situations where you absolutely should replace the existing hardware:
- Corrosion: If the clips are significantly rusted or corroded, they may not hold the pads securely or allow for proper movement.
- Damage: If any clips are bent, stretched, or show signs of fatigue, they must be replaced. This can happen during removal.
- Wear: Over time, the spring tension in the hardware clips can decrease, leading to increased pad movement and potential noise.
- Manufacturer Recommendation: Some manufacturers specifically recommend replacing certain hardware components with each brake pad change.
Ignoring worn or damaged hardware can lead to:
- Brake noise (squealing, rattling)
- Uneven brake pad wear
- Reduced braking performance
- Potential for the brake pad to shift out of position
The Solution: Purchasing a Hardware Kit
If your new brake pads do not include replacement clips, or if your existing hardware is compromised, you will need to purchase a separate brake hardware kit (also known as a brake repair kit or brake caliper hardware kit). These kits are specifically designed for your vehicle's make, model, and year and typically include:
- New anti-rattle clips/shims
- New caliper bracket mounting clips
- Sometimes, new caliper pin boots and seals
Purchasing a dedicated hardware kit ensures you have all the correct, high-quality components for a professional brake job. It's a relatively inexpensive part that can save you a lot of trouble down the line.
Comparing Brake Pad and Hardware Options
Here's a general comparison of what you might encounter:
| Brake Pad Type | Likely Hardware Inclusion | Considerations |
|---|---|---|
| Budget Aftermarket | Rarely | May need to purchase hardware separately. Check for quality. |
| Standard Aftermarket | Sometimes (shims often integrated) | Inspect contents. Consider a separate hardware kit for peace of mind. |
| Premium Aftermarket | Often (comprehensive kit) | Usually includes high-quality hardware for better performance. |
| OEM | Usually | Designed for your vehicle, often includes all necessary hardware. |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1: Can I reuse my old brake pad clips?
A1: You can reuse old clips only if they are in excellent condition – free from rust, distortion, or excessive wear. However, it's generally recommended to replace them, especially the spring steel mounting clips, for optimal performance and safety, particularly if they were not included with the new pads.
Q2: How much does a brake hardware kit typically cost?
A2: A brake hardware kit can range from approximately £10 to £30, depending on the vehicle and the quality of the components. It's a small investment for a critical safety system.
Q3: What's the difference between anti-rattle clips and mounting clips?
A3: Anti-rattle clips (shims) are typically thin and sit against the pad to dampen vibration and prevent noise. Mounting clips are usually spring steel pieces that hold the pad securely in the caliper bracket, guiding its movement.
Q4: My new pads have a coating. Is that a replacement for clips?
A4: Some brake pads come with a special coating (often grey, black, or blue) on the backing plate. This coating is usually a form of shim or noise-dampening material. While it helps reduce noise, it doesn't replace the need for the spring steel mounting clips that hold the pad in place.
Q5: How do I know which hardware kit to buy?
A5: You'll need to know your vehicle's exact year, make, model, and sometimes even the specific brake system it uses. Most auto parts retailers have databases to help you find the correct kit.
Conclusion
In summary, while some brake pad sets will include replacement clips and hardware, it's not a universal guarantee. Always check the contents of your purchase. If new hardware isn't included, or if your existing hardware shows signs of wear or damage, purchasing a dedicated brake hardware kit is a wise and often necessary step. This ensures your new brake pads function correctly, minimise noise, and contribute to the overall safety and reliability of your vehicle's braking system. Investing in these small but crucial components is a small price to pay for peace of mind on the road.
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