How to Replace Brake Kit 01-05 Honda Civic

Difficulty: Advanced · About 90 min · Honda Civic

Replace the rear drum brake shoes on a 2001–2005 Honda Civic and verify shoe adjustment, pedal feel, and parking brake function.

Steps

1. Raise the vehicle and remove the drum

   Chock the front wheels and release the parking brake. Loosen rear lug nuts, raise and support the vehicle securely, remove the wheel, then pull the drum off; back off the adjuster if the drum binds.

2. Remove the old brake shoes

   Photograph the spring and adjuster layout before disassembly. Remove the return springs and hold-down clips, disconnect the parking brake lever and adjuster bar, then lift each shoe away without stretching the springs.

3. Install the new shoes and hardware

   Transfer the parking brake lever to the correct shoe and attach its cable. Clean the backing plate contact points, apply brake-safe lubricant sparingly, install the shoes and adjuster in their original positions, and reconnect all springs and retainers.

4. Adjust and reinstall the drum

   Center the shoes and adjust them until the drum slides on with slight, even drag. Refit the wheel, lower the vehicle, and tighten the lug nuts to the vehicle specification in a crossing pattern.

5. Restore pedal pressure and test

   Pump the brake pedal until firm and verify parking brake operation before moving. Perform a cautious low speed test in a safe area; stop if the pedal is soft, braking is uneven, or any leak appears.

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