1991 Mercedes-Benz 420 SEL Brake Pad Replacement

This video outlines the process involved in replacing both the rear brake pads as well as the front brake pads on a W126 series Mercedes. This vehicle is rare due to the ASR (traction control) system. Because of this, the rear pads also require wear sensors. Most W126's do not require wear sensors for the rear pads.

I chose top tier pads from TMD Friction (PAGID brand) which will very closely match OEM specifications and are ECE R 90 certified. However, the retailer sent the incorrect pad set for the rear. That is why they didn't fit. The correct PAGID part number you need for this application is T1118, not T1014.

A couple of notes:

ALWAYS pump the pedal gently several times to achieve a firm pedal and seat the pads against the rotors before driving the car for the first time. If this is not done, you likely will have little to no breaking action and could have an accident.

Check the master cylinder reservoir to ensure that the brake fluid returned to it while pushing the pistons back into their bores doesn't overflow and spill out. If it looks like it will, crack a bleeder screw while pushing the piston back.

Renewing the brake linings usually isn't a difficult job and you can save allot of money if you do it yourself, but you have to be careful in your process so that the job is done safely and that the vehicle is safe. (10/20/2012)