How to Replace Install Front Brakes 03-08 Honda Pilot

Difficulty: Intermediate · About 90 min · Honda Pilot

Replace the front pads and rotors on a 2003–08 Honda Pilot, then confirm the pedal and braking action before normal driving.

Steps

1. Lift and remove the wheel

   With the vehicle on level ground, loosen the lug nuts slightly. Raise the front safely, support it on jack stands, remove the nuts, and take off the wheel.

2. Remove the caliper and bracket

   Unbolt the hose bracket and caliper, then hang the caliper from the suspension so its hose carries no weight. Remove the caliper bracket bolts and set the bracket aside.

3. Remove and prepare the rotor

   Take out the rotor retaining screws and pull the rotor from the hub. If stuck, use the rotor's service holes with a suitable bolt to press it free; brush rust from the hub face.

4. Fit the replacement rotor

   Clean the new rotor on both sides with brake cleaner and place it on the hub. Refit the retaining screw and caliper bracket, starting all fasteners by hand.

5. Prepare and install pads

   Clean the pad clips and bracket contact points, then apply a thin layer of brake lubricant only where the pad ears and slide pins contact. Retract the caliper piston with a clamp and seat the new pads in the clips.

6. Reassemble the caliper

   Position the caliper over the pads and reinstall its fasteners. Tighten the bracket and caliper hardware to the vehicle's specification, and make sure the hose is not twisted.

7. Reinstall the wheel and check operation

   Install the wheel and snug the lug nuts in a star pattern. Lower the vehicle, torque the lugs to specification, pump the brake pedal until firm, and verify braking at low speed in a safe area.

Check your vehicle’s repair manual for exact specifications and fit.