How to Change Brake Pads on Polaris ATV

Polaris produces robust off-road vehicles for various terrains. Their ATVs are reliable for both work and recreation. Yet, as with every other vehicle, they require regular maintenance so they can provide optimal performance and offer a safe drive. One of the crucial things you should know as an owner is how to change brake pads on Polaris ATV.

If you know your way around with tools, it is highly likely that you won’t have any trouble changing the brake pads on your Polaris ATV. However, as the brake system is complex, you can finish the process with high precision, and ensure safety, with our expert guidance.

How to Change Brake Pads on Polaris ATV

You are probably here because you are wondering, can I change the brake pads myself? While the best advice is to always seek industry-standard repair services for Polaris ATVs, you can still change the brake pads with our assistance. We will explain how do you change brake pads step by step.

1. Ordering brake pads

The first step in changing your Polaris ATV brake pads is purchasing the correct brake pads. As a rule of thumb, the information you will need when choosing brake pads is the position of the brake pads (front or rear) and the model of your ATV.

It’s best to check your instruction manual to see what brake pads you will need. If you don’t have it, you can find the right replacement part by using the Polaris repair parts tool. Once you know what brake pads you need, you can order them in a few simple steps from our website.

2. Gathering the needed tools

To change the brake pads on your Polaris ATV, you will need a few tools you might already have in your workshop:

• Socket wrench set
• Lug wrench
• Flathead screwdriver
• Floor jack
• Clamp
• Hex key
• Vice grips

3. Removing the wheel

The next step in how to change brake pads on ATV is removing the wheel. Ensure the ATV is parked on a level surface and the engine is turned off. Start by placing the floor jack or ATV stand under the vehicle. Lift the ATV and start loosening the lug nuts one by one.

After all lug nuts are loose, unscrew them entirely and take them out. Carefully remove the wheel, and repeat the process for the other wheels where necessary.

4. Clean and inspect the brake system

Cleaning and inspecting the brake system before replacing the pads is crucial. It is normal for brake pads, rotors, and disks to accumulate dirt and debris. Cleaning them will allow you to make a detailed visual inspection and check the condition of the other parts. For best results, use a brush, cloth, and brake cleaner spray.

5. Loosen the caliper

Loosening the caliper is crucial for pad replacement. Use the flathead screwdriver or vice grips to compress the piston inside the brake caliper. This will allow you to install the new brake pads.

Then, take the hex key and locate the allen plug. It is typically at the top right side of the brake caliper. Ease the allen plug off to allow more space for removing and installing the brake pads. 

6. Remove the caliper bolts and brake pads

Find the right socket size and use it to remove the bolts. Typically, Polaris ATVs have two 15-millimeter bolts at the back of the caliper. Push the bolts all the way to the back and remove the old brake pads.

7. Take out the backing plate

You should remove the backing plate and clean it to ensure the braking system functions seamlessly. Use brake cleaner on the backing plate and put grease on the pins.

At the same time, check whether the receptacles where the pins go are in good condition. If they are, continue by putting the backing plate back.

8. Install the new brake pads

Next, take the new brake pads, inspect them and put the two brake pads on the pins. If you don’t have enough room, compress the piston again. Install the caliper back and ensure the disk is between the two brake pads. Put the bolts back and tighten the allen plug.

9. Pump the brakes and install the wheel back on

Pump the brakes a couple of times to ensure the pads engage properly. If everything looks good, put the wheel on your ATV and tighten the lug nuts.

If you are changing the front brake pads, do the same process on both sides. On the contrary, if you need to change the rear brake pads, most models have brake pads only on one wheel, meaning you will have to do only one side. The procedure on how to change brake pads on Polaris ATV is the same for both the front and back.

How Often Do You Need to Change ATV Brakes

Brake pads are parts of the vehicle that wear off the more often you use them. There is no typical replacement interval. So, how often you need to change the brake pads on your Polaris ATV will depend on their condition.

Common signs that indicate you should change the brake pads on your Polaris ATV include:

• Hearing squeaking, metal-to-metal sounds or other strange noises when braking
• Vibrating feel when braking
• Soft brake pedal to the feel
• Decreased stopping power and trouble reaching a full stop in a typical amount of time
• Uneven wear across the pad surface
• Visual damage to the brake pads, such as cracks
• Leaking brake fluid
• Burning smell when braking
• ATV pulls to one side when braking

Conclusion

If you follow our advice on how to change brake pads on Polaris ATV, you will have your machine ready for work or enjoyment in no time. If you doubt that you can do it on your own, our Polaris experts can change the brake pads for you. All you need to do is request a brake pad replacement in one of our five Colorado locations.