What Is a Brake Pad Retaining Clip and How Can It Be Replaced Or Install?
Every car owner and driver should know the importance of the car brake system and the need to replace the brake pad retaining clip for the proper functioning of the brakes. In some cars, the brake pad retaining clip is what holds the brake pads in place. When these clips fall out, become dislodged or break off the brake pads will not be securely retained. In this type of situation, the clips should be replaced immediately to avoid any brake malfunctioning and that is what we will be discussing.
Brake Pad Retaining Clip Explained
The brake pad retaining clip is made of a small metal clip that helps prevent the brake pad from moving around. It is either made of aluminium or steel and has two prongs that fit into the brake pad slots.
The brake system is an essential part of the car because it helps drivers to slow down or stop reliably and consistently. Generally, the main components of a car brake system include a brake pedal, brake pads, master cylinder, brake booster, brake rotor and brake lines. But other small components also play a very important role in the brake system. A good example is the anti-squeal shims or brake pad shims which help prevent brake rotors and brake pads from clanging together. As a result of this small component, brake noise can be prevented and the absence of shims can cause friction between the pads and rotors. Just in case you are not familiar with shim, most of the newer brake pads have shims already installed while some are separated from the brake pads.
Brake pad clips are made in such a way that it helps reduce noise, keep brakes cool and to prolong the lifespan of the brake pad. Brake pads can wear out and the same goes for the brake pad clips. Though braking systems can be complex and attempting to fix any problem without prior knowledge can be risky but knowing how to replace or install some components can help you save some money.
Is There Any Risk For Not Installing Brake Pad Clips?
There are certainly potential risks attached to not installing brake pad clips some of which include:
The Moving Around of The Brake Pad
Failure to install or replace worn-out brake pad clips will cause your brake pad to move around freely which means the contact with the rotor will be very less. As a result of this, the brakes will not work properly and could lead to an accident.
Shorter brake pad lifespan
Your brake pads wear out quicker than usual without a brake pad retaining clip. In other words, it means it reduces the lifespan of your brake pad since it wears out quickly. Also, the movement of your car will not stop securely due to brake pad clips not being installed.
Now that we have discussed the potential risk involved when you fail to install brake pad clips. Let’s take a look at how to install it.
Steps To Installing Brake Pad retaining Clip
You want to get all the necessary equipment and material ready like a wrench, jack and others to make things faster and easy. It is important to get the right retaining clip for your car and know the size of your brake pads.
Lift The Car Using Jack
The very first thing you want to do with free access to work safely under the car is using a jack to lift the car. You want to ensure there is enough space for you to move under the car. If need be you can use a jack stand as support. Put the jack under the car’s frame and place it on something solid.
Remove the Wheels To Locate The Brake Pad Retaining Clips
As a precaution, you may want to put your car in gear before you start removing the wheels. Using the appropriate wrench remove the lug nuts from the wheels and set them aside. Once you remove the wheel you should be able to locate the clips at the back of the brake pad. If you have a problem identifying it you can check the manual. Mostly you will find the clips on the calliper which are attached to the brake discs.
Unsnap The Caliper Clips
To unsnap the brake pad clip from the brake calliper you can make use of needle-nose pliers or a screwdriver. If you want to prevent damage to the metal parts you can use a plastic screwdriver if you have one because it is softer. At this point, you will need the assistance of someone to help you hold the other side of the clips as you gently pull it out with your pliers.
Replace The Brake Pad Retaining Clips
Place the new brake pad retaining clip in position and ensure it snaps as you push them back. Hearing the click sound is evidence that the clip is back in place. Just make sure to carefully check after the clips are installed.
Reattach The Wheels And Lug Nuts
Once you are sure the clips are fully in place you can reattach the wheels and the nuts using a wrench to tighten them.
Gradually Bring Down Your Car And Test The Brakes
Now that everything is set you can then gradually bring down your car. You don’t want to bring it down suddenly because it can damage any components in the car. In case your car is using automatic transmission you should wait for the fluid to settle before driving. Because lack of lubrication in the axles and gears can cause damage. Test drive the car to see if the brakes work perfectly well. Ensure the brake pads are not moving around but securely in place.
Conclusion
A brake pad clip is very important as it helps secure your brakes in one place. Which means it is not safe to drive without it. You should seek professional help if you find it difficult to replace or install your clips.
Also Read: BMW Service — Its High Tech And Quality Maintenance
