how can i replace the front brakepads in a citroen c5 hdi vtr 2.0 without breaking the caliper

dee, November 2007

Beware the caliper pistons need to be wound back in and not simply pushed back in as on most other cars. It is necessary to know the correct direction too as going the wrong way and the piston will come out of the caliper (happended to me and took all day to get it back in).

Geoff, February 2010

It's a fairly simple job! You have to remove the cable for the handbrake and remove the lower bolt that attaches the caliper and swing the caliper upwards which releases the pads and anti-noise shims. You will have to push the pistons back into the calipers before mounting the new pads and shims. Make sure you put some suitable brake grease on the back of the pads and shims (a very light coating only!) to avoid squeeking. Replacing is the reverse of the dismantling. Good luck

Peter, December 2009