Step-by-Step Guide to Installing Brake Pads for Aston Martin

Every Aston Martin tells a story—a tale of design, engineering, and exhilarating control. These vehicles aren’t built for average roads or average experiences. They are engineered to deliver grace at high speeds and composed power in every stop. Brake pads may seem like a small part of the equation, but when you drive an Aston Martin, nothing is small—every component contributes to that perfect symphony of motion and silence. When it's time to replace your brake pads, you don’t need a dealership appointment. What you need is a precision mindset, the right tools, and brake pads from Exotic Parts Depot, designed exclusively for Aston Martin vehicles.

Tools and Materials Checklist
Before getting started, gather everything you'll need. The smoother your process, the more confidently you'll move through each step: Floor jack and secure jack stands, Wheel chocks, Lug wrench or impact gun, Socket set (metric), Torque wrench, Caliper spreader or large C-clamp, Flat-head screwdriver or pry bar, Brake cleaner, Brake lubricant/anti-squeal grease, Safety gloves and eye protection, Bungee cords or zip ties, New Exotic Parts Depot brake pads engineered for your Aston Martin model

Step 1: Prep Your Work Area and Vehicle

Choose a level, well-lit surface. Begin by chocking the wheels on the opposite end of where you're starting. For example, if you're replacing front pads, chock the rear wheels. Loosen the lug nuts slightly before lifting the vehicle. Using your jack, carefully lift the car and place it securely on jack stands. Remove the wheel to access the brake system.

Step 2: Locate and Loosen the Caliper
Behind the exposed rotor sits the brake caliper—home to your brake pads. Using a socket wrench, remove the caliper mounting bolts from the rear of the caliper. These can be tight, so apply firm, even pressure. Once the bolts are out, slowly pull the caliper away from the rotor. Do not let the caliper hang—suspend it using a bungee cord or tie to avoid stress on the brake line.

Step 3: Remove the Old Pads and Inspect Hardware
The brake pads should slide out from the caliper bracket. Some models may require light prying to release the pads from retaining clips. Keep any hardware or pins if they’re in good condition, or prepare new ones if included with your Exotic Parts Depot pads. This is also a good time to inspect the rotor surface for scoring, uneven wear, or warping. If the rotor shows visible damage, consider replacing it along with the pads.

Step 4: Compress the Pistons
Using a caliper spreader tool or C-clamp, gently push the caliper pistons back into their housing. This step creates the clearance needed for the new, thicker brake pads. Aston Martin calipers may have multiple pistons depending on the model (e.g., DB11, Vantage, DBS). Be sure to compress all evenly and slowly. Rushing this part risks damaging the caliper seals. If your Aston Martin has an electronic parking brake, you may need to use a diagnostic tool or follow a specific disengagement procedure before compressing rear calipers. Always consult your vehicle manual first.

Step 5: Install the New Exotic Parts Depot Pads
Before installation, apply a thin layer of high-temperature brake grease to the contact surfaces where the pads meet the caliper and bracket—not on the friction surface. This prevents squealing and allows for smooth movement. Slide the new Exotic Parts Depot pads into place, ensuring they're properly seated in the bracket. If your model includes wear sensors, connect the new ones if they’ve triggered replacement.

Step 6: Reassemble the Caliper
Carefully place the caliper over the new pads and align it with the mounting points. Reinsert the bolts and torque them to your Aston Martin's specification. Never overtighten—luxury performance systems rely on precise torquing to avoid warping or vibration.

Step 7: Reattach the Wheel
Mount the wheel back onto the hub, hand-tighten the lug nuts, then lower the car slowly back to the ground. Use a torque wrench to tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern to ensure even pressure. Again, consult your vehicle’s specifications for the proper torque value—these are not "one-size-fits-all."

Step 8: Prime and Test the Brakes
Before moving the car, pump the brake pedal several times to bring the pistons into contact with the new pads. The pedal will feel soft at first—this is normal. It should firm up after a few presses. Now take the vehicle out for a bedding-in procedure: 1. Accelerate to about 35–40 mph and brake gently down to 10 mph. 2. Repeat this 5–7 times, allowing time for cooling between each. 3. Avoid hard or sudden stops for the first 100 miles. This process helps evenly transfer pad material to the rotor surface, which ensures optimal performance and longevity.

Why Choose Exotic Parts Depot for Aston Martin Brake Pads?

Aston Martin vehicles demand precision in every part they wear—and brake pads are no exception. Exotic Parts Depot specializes in components crafted specifically for the high performance, luxury, and balance expected from these elite vehicles. Their pads are built to mirror OEM specifications, ensuring quiet operation, excellent durability, and smooth stopping power. Whether you're servicing a Vantage, DBX, or Valkyrie, Exotic Parts Depot offers fitment that doesn’t compromise, with none of the dealership markup.

Precision is Luxury
Working on an Aston Martin is as much about mindset as it is mechanics. The goal isn’t just to replace brake pads—it’s to preserve the feel, responsiveness, and elegance the brand represents. With high-quality parts from Exotic Parts Depot and a steady, attentive approach, you can confidently restore your Aston Martin's stopping power to its intended perfection. Brake pad replacement may be routine, but in a vehicle like this, nothing is ordinary—and neither should your work be.