The Easiest Way To Change Your Bike Disc Brake Pads - Shimano XT Disc Brake Pad Change

How to Change Disc Brake Pads (Step-by-Step)

Swapping brake pads is one of the easiest maintenance jobs on a mountain bike. You don't need special tools, it takes about 10 minutes per wheel, and you'll save yourself $30-50 every time you skip the bike shop. Here's how to do it right.

The video below walks through the whole process visually, but we've written out each step below so you can reference it trailside on your phone.

How to change Shimano XT disc brake pads without taking your wheel or caliper off! If your pads rub after this check out my other video Stop Pad Rub. To purchase replacement pads head to Loamgoat.com for pads for all makes and models of bikes. The pads are just as good as OEM but a fraction of the price. Free shipping.

Written Step-by-Step Instructions

What You'll Need

• New brake pads (correct shape for your caliper)
• Allen key set (usually 3mm or 2.5mm for the retaining bolt)
• Flat-head screwdriver or tire lever (for pushing pistons back)
• Clean rag

The Process

1. Remove the wheel. Quick release or thru-axle, get it out of the way so you can access the caliper.
2. Remove the retaining bolt or clip. Most calipers use a small bolt (3mm or 2.5mm Allen) or a cotter pin at the top or bottom of the caliper. Remove it and set it aside.
3. Pull the old pads out. They usually slide straight down or out. Note how they sit, including the spring that separates them. Take a photo if it's your first time.
4. Push the pistons back. Use a flat-head screwdriver, a clean tire lever, or a dedicated piston press tool. Push each piston gently back into the caliper body. This makes room for the thicker new pads.
5. Insert the new pads. Slide them in with the spring between them, friction material facing inward. They should drop right in.
6. Reinstall the retaining bolt or clip. Snug it up. Don't overtighten.
7. Reinstall the wheel. Spin it and check for rubbing. A little rub is normal with new pads and will sort itself out.
8. Bed in the new pads. This is the step most people skip. Find a gentle slope and do 10-15 moderate stops from medium speed. Don't lock the brakes. You're building up an even transfer layer on the rotor. Takes 5 minutes and makes a huge difference in performance.

Tips and Common Mistakes

• Don't touch the pad surface. Oil from your fingers can contaminate pads and cause squealing. Handle them by the backing plate.
• Don't squeeze the brake lever with the wheel out. The pistons will push out too far and you'll have a bad time getting them back.
• Check your rotors while you're in there. If they're below minimum thickness or visibly warped, new pads won't fix your braking problems.

Need new pads? We've got every shape and compound. Shimano pads | SRAM pads | All brake pads