Gen2 (R56 R55) Front Brake Pad Install

Read OctaneGuys Brake pad install for Gen1 First;
https://www.northamericanmotoring.co...beginners.html
This should be considered an addendum to the above guide; illustrations have changed for Gen2 Minis.
This does not have complete details needed for a safe brake pad install - again read Octane Guys detail before using this guide.

Thank you OctaneGuy for the detailed "how to"

Remove the wheels

Remove Brake Hydraulic line from Strut clip

Remove Brake Sensor Line from Strut clip

The Caliper is held on by two 16mm Bolts (top bolt touched – bottom bolt directly below. This view is from
the back of the caliper.

Remove the two 16mm Bolts - view from the top of caliper.

Have Resting Place for the Caliper Prepared (Do not hang by the lines!! - I used a blue plastic crate)

Lift out the brake sensor; being careful with the copper clip (it is easy to lose). On my Gen2 only the drivers side had the sensor.

Lift out the old pads – move to center then lift out.

Clean the Caliper Body – get it ready for new pads( brake clean - small wire brush - shop rag).

Inspect the Rotors; If they do not need resurfacing
Sand the Rotors (I used Hawk Pads and Hawk recommends 130 grit paper)
I started the engine and put car in 5th and let wheel rotate at idle
BE CAREFUL – Keep hands outside of rotors so that should something hang-up, you hand will thrown away from the rotor!

Sanding outside of rotor

Now clean rotors with soap and water

Modified Harbor Freight Tool – Circular hole is cut out to “U” Shape.

Gen2 Calipers have a cross piece between the ends and the tool would not fit between as originally designed.
Squeeze the caliper piston into the body

Place the new pads into the Caliper (coat ends of pads and caliper piston with anti squeal gel)

Reconnect Brake Pad Sensor (Make sure copper clip is in place).


Remount caliper with 16mm bolts and place brake line and brake sensor line in strut clips.

Put the wheels on and go Safely Motoring and -- “Bed the Pads In”