Toyota Harrier ACU30W Rear Brake Pad Kit 04466-48090

Get Toyota Harrier ACU30W Rear Brake Pad Kit 04466-48090 in Kenya

The rear brake pad kit is an essential component of a vehicle’s braking system, responsible for slowing down and stopping the car safely. Whether you drive a Toyota Prado 120/150, Nissan Note, Wingroad, Tiida, or any other vehicle, having high-quality rear brake pads ensures smooth braking, reduced stopping distance, and increased safety.

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about rear brake pads, including their function, importance, replacement signs, installation, maintenance, and common FAQs.

What Are Rear Brake Pads? 🛑

Brake pads are friction materials that press against the brake rotors (discs) to slow down or stop a vehicle. The rear brake pad kit includes:

🔹 Brake Pads (Left & Right) – The main components that create friction.
🔹 Shims – Reduce noise and vibrations.
🔹 Clips & Springs – Ensure proper fitment and function.

While front brake pads handle most of the braking force (about 60-70%), rear brake pads play a crucial role in stability, balance, and overall braking efficiency.

Types of Rear Brake Pads 🔧

There are different types of brake pad materials, each offering unique advantages.

1️⃣ Semi-Metallic Brake Pads

✔️ Made from metal fibers and resin
✔️ Provide strong stopping power
✔️ Perform well in high temperatures
✔️ Slightly noisier and may cause more rotor wear

2️⃣ Ceramic Brake Pads

✔️ Made from ceramic fibers and non-metallic materials
✔️ Offer quiet, smooth braking
✔️ Last longer and produce less brake dust
✔️ More expensive than other types

3️⃣ Organic (NAO) Brake Pads

✔️ Made from non-metallic fibers (rubber, carbon, etc.)
✔️ Softer and quieter but wear out faster
✔️ Suitable for light vehicles and city driving

For SUVs like the Toyota Prado 120/150, semi-metallic or ceramic brake pads are preferred due to their durability and braking performance.

Why Are Rear Brake Pads Important? 🚘

Although the front brakes do most of the work, rear brake pads are vital for:

🔹 Vehicle Stability – Prevents skidding and maintains balance when braking.
🔹 Reduced Brake Fade – Helps distribute braking force evenly.
🔹 Shorter Stopping Distance – Enhances overall braking performance.
🔹 Protection for the Brake Rotors – Prevents excessive wear on rotors.

Without properly functioning rear brake pads, braking efficiency is compromised, increasing the risk of accidents.

Signs of Worn-Out Rear Brake Pads 🚨

Over time, brake pads wear down due to friction and heat exposure. Here are common signs that indicate your rear brake pads need replacement:

🔧 Squeaking or Squealing Noises – Worn-out brake pads produce a high-pitched sound.
🚗 Grinding Noise – Indicates metal-to-metal contact, meaning the pads are completely worn.
🛞 Longer Braking Distance – Reduced stopping power can be dangerous.
⚠️ Brake Warning Light – Some vehicles have sensors that trigger a warning.
💨 Excessive Brake Dust – More dust on the wheels indicates pad wear.
🏎️ Vibrations When Braking – Warped brake rotors or uneven wear on pads can cause shaking.

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s time to inspect and replace the rear brake pads.

Replacing Rear Brake Pads – Step-by-Step Guide 🛠️

Changing rear brake pads is a relatively simple task that requires basic tools.

Tools Needed 🧰

✔️ Jack & jack stands
✔️ Lug wrench
✔️ Socket wrench
✔️ C-clamp or brake caliper tool
✔️ Brake cleaner
✔️ New rear brake pad kit

Installation Steps 🔩

1️⃣ Park on a Level Surface – Engage the parking brake and use wheel chocks.
2️⃣ Loosen the Lug Nuts – Before jacking up the car.
3️⃣ Jack Up the Vehicle – Secure it with jack stands.
4️⃣ Remove the Rear Wheels – To access the brake caliper.
5️⃣ Unbolt the Brake Caliper – Use a socket wrench to remove the bolts.
6️⃣ Remove the Old Brake Pads – Slide them out carefully.
7️⃣ Clean the Brake Components – Use brake cleaner to remove dust and debris.
8️⃣ Install the New Brake Pads – Insert them into the caliper bracket.
9️⃣ Compress the Brake Caliper Piston – Use a C-clamp to push the piston back.
🔟 Reassemble Everything – Bolt the caliper back and reinstall the wheel.
1️⃣1️⃣ Pump the Brake Pedal – Ensures proper brake engagement before driving.

💡 Tip: Avoid touching the brake pad friction surface with greasy hands to maintain effectiveness.

OEM vs Aftermarket Brake Pads 🏁

When replacing rear brake pads, you have two options:

🔹 OEM (Original Equipment Manufacturer):
✔️ Designed by the car manufacturer
✔️ Ensures a perfect fit and reliability
✔️ More expensive but better long-term performance

🔹 Aftermarket Brake Pads:
✔️ Wide variety of brands and materials
✔️ Some offer higher performance (e.g., ceramic or semi-metallic)
✔️ Quality varies – choose reputable brands

For Toyota Prado 120/150, Nissan Note, Wingroad, and Tiida, OEM brake pads are recommended for daily driving, while high-performance ceramic or semi-metallic options are great for heavy-duty use.

Maintenance & Longevity Tips 🏎️

To extend the lifespan of your rear brake pads, follow these maintenance tips:

✅ Inspect Brake Pads Every 20,000 km – Look for thickness and wear.
✅ Check Brake Fluid Levels – Low fluid can affect braking performance.
✅ Avoid Sudden Braking – Increases pad wear and generates excess heat.
✅ Clean the Brake System – Removes dust and debris buildup.
✅ Replace Both Sides at the Same Time – Ensures even braking performance.

Proper maintenance helps prevent premature wear and costly brake repairs.

Common Questions About Rear Brake Pads 🤔

1️⃣ How long do rear brake pads last?

On average, rear brake pads last 50,000 – 80,000 km, but this depends on driving habits and road conditions.

2️⃣ Can I drive with worn-out rear brake pads?

No. Worn-out brake pads increase stopping distance and risk brake failure, making driving dangerous.

3️⃣ How much does it cost to replace rear brake pads?

Prices vary, but expect $50 – $200 for a rear brake pad kit, plus labor costs if done at a shop.

4️⃣ Do I need to replace rear and front brake pads together?

Not necessarily. Rear pads wear slower than front pads, so they can be replaced separately.

5️⃣ How can I check rear brake pad wear?

Visually inspect the pad thickness (should be at least 3-4mm thick) or listen for squealing noises.

Final Thoughts 💭

The rear brake pad kit is an essential part of your vehicle’s braking system, ensuring safe and efficient stopping power. Whether you drive a Toyota Prado 120/150, Nissan Note, Wingroad, or Tiida, using high-quality brake pads will improve performance, safety, and longevity.

🔧 If your car is showing signs of worn-out brake pads, replacing them with OEM or premium aftermarket options will restore optimal braking performance.

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