Replacing pads on the 981's fixed monobloc calipers is a moderate DIY job. Do not attempt this on PCCB (yellow caliper) cars without the correct ceramic-specific pads and procedure.
What you need
- Correct front/rear pad set for your variant
- New caliper mounting bolts if you remove the caliper (they are single-use stretch bolts)
- Brake cleaner, a caliper piston tool, anti-squeal/lubricant for the pad backs and pins
- Torque wrench, jack and stands, the wheel-bolt socket
Procedure
1. Loosen the wheel bolts, raise and secure the car, remove the wheel.
2. On the fixed caliper, remove the pad retaining pins/clips and slide the old pads out (you usually do not need to remove the caliper itself for a pad-only job).
3. Inspect the disc: minimum thickness is stamped on it (S/GTS front ~26 mm, rear ~18 mm). Replace discs if at or below minimum.
4. Push the pistons back carefully (watch the fluid reservoir level so it does not overflow).
5. Fit the new pads with anti-squeal on the backing plates; reinstall pins/clips.
6. If you removed the caliper, torque the mounting bolts to 85 Nm with new bolts. Brake line unions are 16 Nm.
7. Refit the wheel and torque the bolts to 160 Nm.
8. Before driving, pump the brake pedal until firm to take up the piston clearance. Bed the pads in per the manufacturer's instructions.
Notes
- Replace pads at ~2 mm friction material.
- Consider a brake-fluid flush at the same time if it is due (every 2 years).
Torque values are from 981 owner references; verify against the workshop manual.
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