I'm trying to replace all my brake pads, I have replace brake pads on my previous cars but somehow the assembly on my 06 Mazda 5 is different. It does not have the bolts that hold the part that comes off without removing the entire brake assembly. Or am I just missing its location? Thanks.

 

This site helped me alot when changing mine. Yes I know it says Mazda 3 but the two are essentially the same. In the pics you will see the plastic dust covers that hide the allen head bolts.

Mazda3 HOWTO: Install Front Brake Pads and Rotors

 

All disc brake designs are essentially the same. You have the rotor which are held in place by lug nuts, then the caliper bracket bolts (two), then the caliper bolts. Either with or without anti vibration springs. Most German brand cars also have wear sensor on the driver's (left) side. If you don't see those bolts, yeah, like the other member said, it's hidden by something. VW's that I've worked on the last past 12 years or so have either plastic or rubber caps on them so that dust can't get in.

 

I replaced mine today. Prize the anti-rattle spring from the front of the caliper, then remove the two plastic caps on the rear of the caliper which cover the retaining bolts. The bolts have a 7mm Allen head. Very straight forward job.

 

Yes, agreed, as long as you know where everything is. My earlier post includes pics to aid in the process

 

Should have checked your post!

 

That is a pretty good write-up for the front pads, which are easy and straight forward, but the rears are jussstttt a bit different, and more difficult.

You have the parking brake cable to contend with. And the caliper piston the screw in and compress. If you don't know what you're doing, or have the correct tools for the job all you'll get is frustrated.

 

Good point!! For the life of me I thought it covered both front and rear, oops. hear is the write-up for the rears.

Mazda3 HOWTO: Install Rear Brake Pads and Rotors

 

Thanks for the reply! That save me a lot of $$$!!! I did not know that the bolt is hiding behind that plastic cap and rubber. I thought it was springs are in the back of it that' why I was hesitant to remove it the first time since my previous cars do not have those plastic caps and rubber. Thanks again. Requesting for this thread be a sticky for other members to see that may need it someday.

Thanks again.

 

Out of interest is the rear hand brake mechanism wound back in using a standard tool? I have a tool I used on my Mondeo (2000 model) somewhere in the shed so I'm wondering if this will be good for the Mazda 5?