2021 Honda Accord Rear Brake Pad Replacement

Ever hit the brakes and felt that tell-tale squeal or a noticeable shudder? Or maybe your pedal just feels a little… soft? For many 2021 Honda Accord owners, these are the first signs that it’s time to think about a 2021 Honda Accord rear brake pad replacement. Don’t sweat it – while brakes are critical, replacing your rear pads on a modern Accord is a completely manageable DIY project with the right guidance.

At FatBoysOffroad, we empower you to take control of your vehicle’s maintenance. This comprehensive guide will walk you through every step of the process, transforming you from a hesitant owner into a confident wrench-turner. We’ll cover everything from gathering your tools to those crucial post-replacement checks, ensuring you achieve safer stops and significant savings. Get ready to tackle this essential maintenance with expertise and trust!

Why Your 2021 Honda Accord Needs New Rear Brake Pads

Brake pads are wear items. They’re designed to sacrifice themselves, creating friction against the rotors to slow your vehicle. Over time, this friction wears them down, reducing their effectiveness.

Ignoring worn brake pads isn’t just about poor performance; it’s a serious safety hazard. It can also lead to more expensive repairs down the line, like damaged rotors or even caliper issues.

Common Signs It’s Time for a 2021 Honda Accord Rear Brake Pad Replacement

Your Accord usually gives you clear warnings when its rear brake pads are nearing the end of their life.

Squealing or Grinding Noises: Many pads have a built-in wear indicator that produces a high-pitched squeal when they’re thin. A grinding noise, however, often means the pads are completely worn, and metal is rubbing against metal – a critical issue.
Reduced Braking Performance: You might notice it takes longer to stop, or you have to press the pedal harder than usual.
Vibrations or Pulsations: A vibrating brake pedal or steering wheel, especially when braking, can indicate warped rotors, often caused by excessively worn pads.
Dashboard Warning Light: Some modern Accords have a brake wear sensor that triggers a warning light on your dash.
Visual Inspection: If you can see that the pad material is less than 3mm thick, it’s time for replacement.

Catching these signs early means you can plan your 2021 Honda Accord rear brake pad replacement before it becomes an emergency.

Gathering Your Tools & Parts for the Job

Preparation is key for any successful DIY project. Having the right tools and parts on hand before you start will save you time and frustration.

Essential Tools You’ll Need

Don’t skimp on quality when it comes to tools, especially for safety-critical components like brakes.

Jack and Jack Stands: Absolutely crucial for safely lifting and supporting your vehicle. Never work under a car supported only by a jack.
Wheel Chocks: To prevent the car from rolling.
Lug Nut Wrench: Or an impact wrench, to remove the wheel.
Ratchet and Socket Set: You’ll typically need 12mm, 14mm, and 17mm sockets for the caliper bolts and possibly the bracket bolts.
Torque Wrench: Non-negotiable for tightening lug nuts and caliper bolts to factory specifications.
C-Clamp or Brake Caliper Piston Tool: To compress the caliper piston. For the 2021 Accord with an electronic parking brake (EPB), you’ll need a specialized electronic brake reset tool (OBD-II scanner with EPB function) or a compatible diagnostic tool to put the EPB into service mode.
Wire Brush: For cleaning caliper brackets and hub surfaces.
Brake Cleaner: To clean components and remove grease.
Gloves and Safety Glasses: Protect your hands and eyes.
Flathead Screwdriver or Pry Bar: To help remove old pads.

Selecting the Right Parts: Pads & Rotors

For your 2021 Honda Accord rear brake pad replacement, you’ll need more than just pads. Consider replacing your rotors too, especially if they show signs of wear.

Brake Pads: Choose quality pads from reputable brands.

Ceramic Pads: Offer quieter operation and less dust, great for daily driving.
Semi-Metallic Pads: Provide excellent stopping power and heat dissipation, good for spirited driving.
Look for pads that are specifically designed for the 2021 Honda Accord rear brakes.

Brake Rotors (Optional but Recommended): If your rotors have grooves, rust, or are below the minimum thickness specification, replace them.

Matching new pads with new rotors ensures optimal braking performance and longevity.

Brake Hardware Kit: Often comes with new pads, but if not, buy one. It includes new shims and clips.
High-Temperature Brake Grease/Lube: For caliper slide pins and contact points.

Choosing sustainable 2021 Honda Accord rear brake pad replacement options can involve selecting pads made from recycled materials or low-copper formulations, which are better for the environment. Look for manufacturers that prioritize eco-friendly 2021 Honda Accord rear brake pad replacement practices.

Step-by-Step Guide: 2021 Honda Accord Rear Brake Pad Replacement

This is where the rubber meets the road – or rather, where the wrench meets the bolt. Follow these steps carefully for a successful and safe replacement.

Step 1: Prepare Your Vehicle Safely

Safety first! This cannot be stressed enough.

Park your Accord on a flat, level surface.
Put the transmission in “Park” (P).
Engage the parking brake.
Place wheel chocks in front of the front wheels to prevent any movement.
Loosen the rear wheel’s lug nuts slightly while the car is still on the ground. Don’t remove them yet.
Using your jack, lift the rear of the vehicle until the wheel is off the ground.
Place jack stands securely under the vehicle’s frame or designated jack points. Lower the car onto the jack stands.
Remove the lug nuts completely and carefully take off the wheel. Store it safely out of your way.

Step 2: Engage Electronic Parking Brake (EPB) Service Mode

This is a critical step for 2021 Accords due to their electronic parking brake. **Do NOT skip this.**

Connect your OBD-II scanner or diagnostic tool to the car’s OBD port.
Navigate through the tool’s menu to find the “Electronic Parking Brake (EPB) Service Mode” or “Caliper Maintenance Mode.”
Activate this mode. The EPB motor will retract, allowing the caliper piston to be compressed.
If you don’t have the tool, this is where you stop and consider professional help, as forcing the piston can damage the EPB motor.

Step 3: Disassemble the Caliper

Now you can start taking things apart.

Locate the two caliper slide pin bolts on the back of the caliper. They are usually 12mm or 14mm.
Using your ratchet and appropriate socket, remove these two bolts.
Carefully slide the caliper off the rotor. It might be a little snug.
Do not let the caliper hang by the brake hose! This can damage the hose. Use a wire hanger, bungee cord, or a designated caliper hanger to support it from the suspension component.
Remove the old brake pads. They might just slide out or need a gentle pry with a flathead screwdriver. Note how the old pads were installed.

Step 4: Inspect and Prepare the Rotor (and Replace if Necessary)

A crucial part of 2021 Honda Accord rear brake pad replacement tips is checking the rotor.

Inspect the rotor for deep grooves, scoring, cracks, or excessive rust.
If the rotor is heavily worn or below its minimum thickness (stamped on the rotor hat), you must replace it.
To remove the rotor, you might need to remove a small Phillips head screw that holds it to the hub, or it might just slide off. If it’s stuck, a few taps with a rubber mallet can help.
Clean the hub surface with a wire brush to ensure the new rotor sits flush.
Install the new rotor (if replacing) and secure it with the small screw if applicable.

Step 5: Clean and Lubricate Caliper Bracket

This step is often overlooked but is vital for proper brake operation and longevity.

Remove the caliper bracket (the larger metal piece the caliper bolts to). This usually involves two larger bolts, often 17mm.
Remove the old brake pad shims and clips from the bracket.
Use a wire brush to thoroughly clean all rust and brake dust from the bracket, especially where the brake pads slide and where the new clips sit.
Clean and inspect the caliper slide pins. They should move freely. Apply a thin layer of high-temperature brake grease to the pins.
Install the new brake pad clips and shims onto the clean caliper bracket. Apply a very thin layer of brake grease to the contact points where the pads will slide.
Reinstall the caliper bracket onto the vehicle and torque the bolts to factory specifications. Refer to your Accord’s service manual for precise torque values.

Step 6: Compress the Caliper Piston

This step allows the new, thicker pads to fit.

With the EPB in service mode, use your C-clamp or specialized brake caliper piston tool to slowly and evenly push the piston back into the caliper body.
Keep an eye on the brake fluid reservoir under the hood. As you push the piston in, fluid will be pushed back into the reservoir. If it’s full, remove a small amount of fluid to prevent overflow.
Ensure the piston is fully retracted and flush with the caliper body.

Step 7: Install New Brake Pads and Reassemble

You’re almost there!

Install the new brake pads into the caliper bracket. Ensure they slide freely. One pad will have a wear indicator, typically on the inner pad.
Carefully slide the caliper assembly back over the new pads and rotor.
Reinstall the two caliper slide pin bolts. Torque these bolts to factory specifications. Again, consult your service manual.
Double-check all bolts for tightness.

Step 8: Exit EPB Service Mode and Final Checks

Don’t forget this crucial EPB step!

Using your diagnostic tool, exit the EPB service mode. The EPB motor will re-engage.
Pump the brake pedal several times until it feels firm. This pushes the caliper piston out and seats the new pads against the rotor.
Check the brake fluid reservoir level and top it off if necessary, but do not overfill.

Step 9: Reinstall Wheel and Lower Vehicle

Finishing up.

Reinstall the wheel, hand-tightening the lug nuts.
Lift the vehicle slightly with the jack, remove the jack stands, and slowly lower the vehicle to the ground.
Using your torque wrench, tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern to the manufacturer’s specified torque (usually around 80-90 ft-lbs for a Honda Accord).
Remove wheel chocks.

Post-Replacement Care: Bedding-In Your New Pads

After your 2021 Honda Accord rear brake pad replacement, it’s essential to properly “bed-in” the new pads. This process transfers a thin layer of pad material onto the rotor, optimizing performance and longevity.

The Bedding-In Procedure

Find a safe, open road where you can accelerate and brake without traffic.
Accelerate to 35 mph, then brake moderately hard (but not to a complete stop) down to 5 mph. Repeat this 5-6 times.
Accelerate to 55 mph, then brake firmly (again, not to a complete stop) down to 10 mph. Repeat this 2-3 times.
Drive for 10-15 minutes without heavy braking to allow the brakes to cool down.

Avoid hard braking for the first 200 miles after installation. This care guide ensures your new pads and rotors perform their best and last longer.

Troubleshooting Common Problems with 2021 Honda Accord Rear Brake Pad Replacement

Even with the best guide, things can sometimes go sideways. Here are a few common issues and how to address them.

Squealing After Replacement: If the squealing persists after bedding-in, it could be due to improper lubrication of the pad backing plates or shims, or the use of cheap pads. Ensure all contact points were greased with high-temperature brake lube.
Soft or Spongy Pedal: This almost always indicates air in the brake lines. You’ll need to bleed the brake system. This is a more advanced procedure, and if you’re uncomfortable, call a professional.
Brake Dragging: If a wheel feels hot after driving, or you hear a continuous rubbing sound, a caliper slide pin might be seized, or the piston isn’t fully retracting. Recheck lubrication and ensure the EPB exited service mode correctly.
Vibrations: If you replaced only the pads and not the rotors, old, warped rotors could still cause vibrations. If you replaced both and still have vibrations, recheck lug nut torque and ensure the rotors are sitting flush.

When in doubt, especially concerning brake performance, it’s always best to consult a certified mechanic. Your safety is paramount.

Sustainable & Eco-Friendly 2021 Honda Accord Rear Brake Pad Replacement Best Practices

As responsible DIYers, we can make choices that benefit both our wallets and the planet.

Choose Low-Copper or Ceramic Pads: Copper dust from brake pads can harm aquatic life. Many manufacturers now offer low-copper or copper-free ceramic pads.
Recycle Old Parts: Many auto parts stores will accept old brake pads and rotors for recycling. Don’t just toss them in the trash.
Proper Disposal of Fluids: If you bled your brakes or removed excess fluid, dispose of brake fluid at an authorized hazardous waste facility. Never pour it down the drain.
Extend Pad Life: Practice smooth, gradual braking rather than sudden stops. This not only saves your brakes but also improves fuel economy.

These practices contribute to a more sustainable 2021 Honda Accord rear brake pad replacement experience, aligning with broader eco-friendly 2021 Honda Accord rear brake pad replacement goals.

Frequently Asked Questions About 2021 Honda Accord Rear Brake Pad Replacement

How long do rear brake pads last on a 2021 Honda Accord?

Typically, rear brake pads on a 2021 Honda Accord can last anywhere from 30,000 to 70,000 miles, depending on driving habits, terrain, and the quality of the pads. Rear pads often wear slower than front pads.

Do I need to replace my rotors when I replace my pads?

It’s highly recommended to replace rotors when replacing pads, especially if the rotors show signs of wear (grooves, warping, or are below minimum thickness). Matching new pads with new rotors ensures optimal performance and prevents premature pad wear.

What is an electronic parking brake (EPB) service mode, and why is it important for the 2021 Accord?

The 2021 Honda Accord uses an electronic parking brake. EPB service mode retracts the caliper piston electronically, preventing damage to the EPB motor when you try to compress the piston manually. Without this, you risk breaking the caliper or its internal motor.

Can I replace just one side’s brake pads?

No, you should always replace brake pads in pairs (both rear wheels or both front wheels). This ensures even braking force and prevents uneven wear, which could lead to pulling or instability during braking.

What happens if I don’t bed-in my new brake pads?

Improper bedding-in can lead to reduced braking performance, increased noise (squealing), uneven pad wear, and even premature rotor warping. It’s a crucial step to ensure the pads and rotors work together effectively.

Conclusion: Drive Confidently with Your New Brakes

You’ve done it! Completing a 2021 Honda Accord rear brake pad replacement is a significant achievement for any DIY mechanic. Not only have you saved money, but you’ve gained invaluable experience and a deeper understanding of your vehicle.

Remember, the best practices for brake care extend beyond just replacement. Regular visual inspections, mindful driving, and addressing issues promptly will keep your Accord stopping safely for years to come. By following this guide, you’ve ensured your Accord’s rear brakes are ready for whatever the road throws at them.

Stay safe and stay comfortable on your next adventure, knowing your brakes are in top-notch condition!

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Thomas Corle

Founder & Automobile expert at FatBoysOffroad

Automobile expert and off-road enthusiast, sharing in-depth knowledge of vehicles, gear, and adventures. Helping readers make smart decisions and enjoy the thrill of off-roading safely and confidently.