Honda Fit Brake Caliper Bolt Removal

Replacing the brake pads on your Honda Fit is a crucial maintenance task that can significantly impact your vehicle's stopping power and overall safety. While it might seem daunting to some, with the right tools and a clear understanding of the process, it's a perfectly manageable DIY job. This guide will walk you through the essential steps for removing the caliper bolts on your Honda Fit, ensuring a successful brake pad replacement. We'll cover the tools you'll need, the precise locations of the bolts, and offer some helpful tips to make the job as smooth as possible.

Essential Tools for the Job

Before you even think about touching your Honda Fit's brakes, it's vital to gather the correct tools. Having everything at hand will prevent frustration and ensure you can complete the job efficiently. For removing the caliper bolts, you'll primarily need a few key items: * Socket Wrench Set: This is your most important tool. You'll need sockets of specific sizes. * 19mm Socket: This is essential for removing the wheel nuts that secure your Honda Fit's wheels. Without removing the wheel, you won't be able to access the caliper. * 12mm Socket: This is the specific size required for the caliper bolts on most Honda Fit models. It's crucial to use the correct size to avoid stripping the bolt heads, which can lead to significant problems. * Breaker Bar (Optional but Recommended): For stubborn bolts, a breaker bar can provide the extra leverage needed without excessive force. * Torque Wrench: While not strictly for removal, you'll absolutely need this for reinstallation to ensure the caliper bolts are tightened to the manufacturer's specifications. Overtightening or undertightening can be dangerous. * Jack and Jack Stands: Safety is paramount. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack. Always use sturdy jack stands to support the car securely. * Wheel Chocks: To prevent the vehicle from rolling, especially when working on a slope. * Gloves and Eye Protection: Always protect yourself from brake dust and potential debris.

Locating the Caliper Bolts

The brake caliper is the component that clamps the brake pads onto the brake disc (rotor). On your Honda Fit, the caliper is typically mounted to the steering knuckle. Once the wheel is removed, you'll see the caliper straddling the brake disc. The caliper itself is often held in place by two bolts, commonly referred to as slider pins or guide pins. These bolts allow the caliper to slide as the brake pads wear down and as the brake system operates. On the back of the caliper assembly, you'll find these two bolts. They usually have rubber boots covering their heads. You'll need to identify and access these bolts to free the caliper.

Step-by-Step Removal Process

Let's break down the process of removing those caliper bolts: 1. Prepare the Vehicle: * Park your Honda Fit on a level surface. * Engage the parking brake firmly. * Place wheel chocks behind the rear wheels (if you're working on the front brakes) or in front of the front wheels (if working on the rear). 2. Loosen Wheel Nuts: * Using your 19mm socket and a lug wrench or breaker bar, slightly loosen the wheel nuts on the wheel you intend to work on. Do not remove them completely yet. It's much easier to loosen them while the wheel is still on the ground and can't spin. 3. Jack Up the Vehicle: * Locate the correct jacking point for your Honda Fit (consult your owner's manual for precise locations). * Safely raise the vehicle using your jack until the wheel you're working on is completely off the ground. * Place a jack stand securely under a strong point of the frame or suspension to support the vehicle. Lower the vehicle onto the jack stand. Never rely solely on the jack. 4. Remove the Wheel: * Now that the wheel is safely supported, fully unscrew the loosened wheel nuts. * Grasp the wheel and pull it straight off the hub. 5. Identify the Caliper Bolts: * With the wheel removed, you'll have a clear view of the brake caliper and rotor. You'll see the caliper housing that encloses the brake pads. * Look for the two bolts on the back or side of the caliper that are holding it to the bracket. These are the bolts you need to remove. 6. Access the Caliper Bolts: * On many Honda Fit models, the caliper bolts are secured by a larger bracket or mounting bolt. You might need to hold the slider pin with a wrench (often a 14mm or 17mm depending on the specific model and year) while you use your 12mm socket to loosen the caliper bolt itself. This prevents the slider pin from spinning. * Alternatively, some calipers might have just the two slider pins accessible directly. Observe the assembly carefully. 7. Remove the Caliper Bolts: * Using your 12mm socket attached to your socket wrench, turn the caliper bolts counter-clockwise to loosen and remove them. * If they are tight, a breaker bar can be helpful here. Apply steady pressure. * Once loosened, unscrew them completely by hand. 8. Remove the Caliper: * With the caliper bolts removed, the caliper should now be free. You can usually gently pivot or slide the caliper upwards or outwards to expose the brake pads. * Important: Do not let the caliper hang by the brake hose. This can damage the hose. Support the caliper with a piece of wire or a bungee cord, hanging it from the suspension spring or strut.

Common Issues and Tips

• Stuck Bolts: If the caliper bolts are seized, a penetrating lubricant like WD-40 can be applied and left to soak for a few minutes before attempting removal again. Gentle tapping with a hammer on the wrench can also help break them loose.
• Stripped Bolts: If you find a bolt head is starting to strip, stop immediately. You may need to use a bolt extractor or consider professional help to avoid further damage.
• Slider Pin Issues: While removing the caliper bolts, pay attention to the condition of the slider pins. They should move freely. If they are stiff or corroded, they will need to be cleaned, lubricated with brake grease, or replaced. This is often done when replacing brake pads to ensure smooth caliper operation.
• Brake Fluid: As you compress the brake caliper piston to fit the new, thicker brake pads, brake fluid will be pushed back into the reservoir. Ensure the reservoir cap is loose (or removed) and monitor the fluid level to prevent overflow. You may need to siphon some fluid out if it gets too high.
  

  Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: What size socket do I need for Honda Fit caliper bolts?A1: For most Honda Fit models, you will need a 12mm socket to remove the caliper bolts. Q2: Do I need to remove the caliper to change the brake pads?A2: Yes, you must remove the caliper to access and replace the brake pads. The caliper bolts hold the caliper in place, allowing you to slide it off the rotor and pads. Q3: Can I just loosen the caliper bolts instead of removing them completely?A3: While you might be able to pivot the caliper out of the way with the bolts loosened, it's generally recommended to remove them completely for easier access to the old pads and to thoroughly inspect the slider pins. Q4: What happens if I overtighten the caliper bolts when putting them back?A4: Overtightening the caliper bolts can strip the threads in the knuckle or bracket, or even snap the bolt. It's crucial to use a torque wrench and tighten them to the manufacturer's specified torque setting. Q5: My caliper bolts are very tight. What should I do?A5: Ensure you are using the correct size socket and a good quality wrench. A breaker bar can provide extra leverage. If they remain stuck, a penetrating lubricant and some patience can help. Avoid excessive force that could strip the bolt head. By following these steps and using the correct tools, you can confidently tackle the removal of caliper bolts on your Honda Fit and perform a successful brake pad replacement. Remember, safety first – always use jack stands and wear appropriate protective gear. If you're ever unsure, it's always best to consult a professional mechanic.

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