How to Change Honda Civic Rear Drum Brakes: The Ultimate Tutorial You Can’t Miss

Replacing your Honda Civic’s rear drum brakes is a relatively straightforward task that can be tackled by even novice DIYers. This guide will walk you through the process step-by-step, providing you with all the necessary information and tips to ensure a successful brake job.

Why Change Your Rear Drum Brakes?

Drum brakes, unlike disc brakes, are prone to wear and tear. Over time, the brake shoes wear down, and the brake drums can become grooved or warped. This can lead to reduced braking performance, uneven braking, and even brake failure. Here are some signs that your rear drum brakes may need replacing:

• Braking Noise: A grinding or squeaking sound when braking indicates worn-out brake shoes or a damaged drum.
• Spongy Brake Pedal: A soft or spongy brake pedal suggests a loss of hydraulic pressure, which could be caused by worn-out brake shoes or a leaking brake cylinder.
• Pulling to One Side: If your car pulls to one side when braking, it could indicate uneven wear on the brake shoes or drums.
• Visible Wear: If you can see the brake shoes through the inspection holes in the drum, it’s time for a replacement.

Gathering Your Tools and Parts

Before you begin, you’ll need to gather the necessary tools and parts. Here’s a list of what you’ll need:

Tools:

• Jack and jack stands: To lift the car safely.
• Lug wrench: To remove the lug nuts.
• Socket wrench set: To loosen and tighten bolts and nuts.
• Torque wrench: To ensure proper tightening of bolts and nuts.
• Hammer: To tap parts loose.
• Pry bar: To help separate components.
• C-clamp: To compress the brake cylinder.
• Brake cleaner: To clean parts before assembly.
• Grease: To lubricate parts.

Parts:

• Rear brake shoes: Make sure to get the correct size and type for your car.
• Brake drums: If the existing drums are warped or grooved, you’ll need to replace them.
• Brake cylinder: If the cylinder is leaking or damaged, you’ll need to replace it.
• Hardware: This includes springs, clips, and other small parts.

Step-by-Step Guide to Replacing Your Honda Civic Rear Drum Brakes

1. Safety First:

• Park your car on a level surface and engage the parking brake.
• Chock the front wheels to prevent the car from rolling.
• Use jack stands to support the car securely.

2. Remove the Wheel:

• Loosen the lug nuts with the lug wrench.
• Jack up the car and remove the wheel.

3. Remove the Brake Drum:

• Locate the brake drum inspection holes.
• Use a hammer and punch to tap the drum to loosen it.
• If the drum is stuck, you can use a brake drum puller to remove it.

4. Remove the Brake Shoes:

• Release the parking brake.
• Locate the brake shoe retaining springs and clips.
• Remove the springs and clips to release the brake shoes.
• Remove the brake shoes and inspect them for wear.

5. Inspect and Replace the Brake Cylinder:

• Inspect the brake cylinder for leaks or damage.
• If necessary, replace the brake cylinder.
• To remove the cylinder, loosen the mounting bolts and disconnect the brake lines.

6. Clean and Lubricate:

• Clean all parts thoroughly with brake cleaner.
• Apply grease to the brake shoe contact points and other lubrication points.

7. Install the New Brake Shoes:

• Install the new brake shoes in the correct position.
• Ensure the brake shoe springs and clips are installed correctly.

8. Install the New Brake Drum:

• Install the new brake drum onto the axle.
• Tap the drum gently to seat it properly.

9. Adjust the Brake Shoes:

• Use the adjustment star wheel to adjust the brake shoes.
• Turn the star wheel clockwise to tighten the shoes and counterclockwise to loosen them.
• Adjust the shoes until they are tight enough to prevent the drum from rotating freely but not so tight that they bind.

10. Reassemble and Test:

• Reinstall the wheel and tighten the lug nuts to the proper torque.
• Lower the car and remove the jack stands.
• Test the brakes by gently applying them.

Important Considerations

• Bleeding the Brakes: After replacing the brake cylinder or making any other repairs to the brake system, it’s essential to bleed the brakes. This removes air from the system and ensures proper brake performance.
• Proper Torque: It’s crucial to tighten bolts and nuts to the correct torque specifications. Failure to do so can lead to loose parts and potential safety hazards.
• Professional Assistance: If you’re unsure about any part of the process or if you encounter any difficulties, it’s best to seek professional assistance from a qualified mechanic.

Your Brakes Are Now Ready for the Road

By following these steps, you’ve successfully replaced your Honda Civic‘s rear drum brakes. Remember to always prioritize safety and follow the instructions carefully. Now you can enjoy the peace of mind that comes with knowing your brakes are in top condition.

Basics You Wanted To Know

Q: How often should I replace my rear drum brakes?

A: The lifespan of drum brakes varies depending on driving habits and conditions. However, they typically need replacement every 30,000 to 50,000 miles.

Q: Can I replace only the brake shoes or do I need to replace the drums as well?

A: If the drums are in good condition, you can replace only the brake shoes. However, if the drums are warped or grooved, you’ll need to replace them as well.

Q: What happens if I don’t replace my rear drum brakes?

A: Worn-out drum brakes can lead to reduced braking performance, uneven braking, and even brake failure. This can be dangerous and could lead to an accident.

Q: Can I use a hydraulic brake cylinder spreader to compress the cylinder?

A: While a hydraulic brake cylinder spreader can be helpful, it’s not essential. You can use a C-clamp to compress the cylinder instead.

Q: What if I can’t remove the brake drum?

A: If you can’t remove the brake drum, you may need to use a brake drum puller. If the drum is still stuck, it’s best to seek professional assistance.