How to Replace the Front Brake Pads on a Mini Cooper

To replace the front brake pads on a Mini Cooper, start by opening the bonnet and unscrewing the brake fluid reservoir cap, placing the cap on the reservoir. Position a wedge in front of the left front wheel, remove the wheel bolt cover, and loosen the bolts.

Lift the car (either with a ramp or just at the front) and continue unscrewing the wheel bolts. Once the wheel is off, use a flathead screwdriver to push the pads back so the piston can retract and the pads can move.

Now remove the two caps holding the caliper screws, unscrew the screws securing the caliper, remove the clip, move the caliper, and take out the pads. After removing the pads, spray some brake lubricant on the piston and use a special tool to push it in until it is parallel with the caliper.

Next, use a wire brush on the pad seating, spray brake lubricant, and apply anti-squeal paste. Now take the new pads, insert the pad with the hooks into the caliper piston and the other on the outer part of the disc with the friction material on the disc.

Position the caliper with the pad on the disc and screw in the rear screws with their caps, also inserting the front clip. Spray brake lubricant on the brake disc while rotating it, dry it off, and spray some copper grease on the central part of the disc.

Refit the wheel, tighten the wheel bolts, lower the car, place a wedge behind the wheel, tighten the bolts, and refit the wheel bolt cover. Finally, screw the brake fluid reservoir cap back on and close the bonnet.