A Guide to Disc Brake Hardware for the 2006-2017 Mazda 5
Solve common brake noise and uneven wear issues by understanding this small but critical part.
- Always replace the disc brake hardware kit with every brake pad change to prevent noise and uneven wear.
- Thoroughly clean rust off the rear caliper brackets to fix and prevent the common premature pad wear issue covered in TSB 04-005/15.
- A special tool is required to retract the rear caliper pistons; they must be rotated and compressed simultaneously.
- For this vehicle, choosing a quality aftermarket brand like Raybestos can offer better durability than the original parts, especially regarding rotor warping.
Why New Brake Hardware is Critical on Your Mazda 5
When changing the brake pads on your 2006-2017 Mazda 5, replacing the disc brake hardware kit is not an optional step—it's a necessary part of the job. The old clips and springs have been exposed to thousands of heat cycles, moisture, and road salt. They lose their tension, corrode, and get clogged with brake dust. Reusing old hardware is a common cause of brake noise, vibration, and uneven pad wear. On the Mazda 5 specifically, failing to replace the hardware can contribute to a well-known rear brake problem.
Known Issue: Premature Rear Brake Pad Wear (TSB 04-005/15)
Many Mazda 5 owners experience the outer rear brake pads wearing out much faster than the inner pads. This is often caused by rust and corrosion building up on the caliper support bracket, right where the hardware clips sit. This corrosion prevents the brake pad from sliding freely, causing it to drag constantly against the rotor. A Technical Service Bulletin (TSB) was issued by Mazda to address this. The solution involves thoroughly cleaning all rust from the caliper bracket and installing new pads and hardware, ensuring everything is properly lubricated. 🎬 Watch this complete walkthrough for Mazda 5 rear brake and rotor replacement. When you do your brake job, cleaning these contact points is critical to prevent the problem from returning.
Symptoms of Failing Brake Hardware
Worn or corroded brake hardware can cause several distinct problems. Here’s what to listen and look for:
- Squealing or Scraping: While often a sign of thin pads, constant noise can also mean a pad is stuck and not retracting properly due to binding hardware.
- Rattling or Clunking: If you hear a rattle from the wheels, especially over bumps, it could be from loose brake pads that are no longer held tightly by worn-out anti-rattle clips.
- Uneven Brake Pad Wear: If you inspect your pads and find one is significantly more worn than another (especially outer vs. inner on the rear), binding hardware is a likely cause.
- Brake Dragging or Burning Smell: A pad that can't slide back and forth will drag on the rotor, creating constant friction. This can lead to a burning smell after driving, excessive heat from one wheel, and potential damage to the brake rotor.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Hardware Kit
Since you're replacing the hardware, you have a choice between several aftermarket brands. They are not all created equal, but even an economy aftermarket kit is better than reusing old, rusty OEM hardware. 🎬 See a step-by-step guide for replacing your front brake pads. Here’s a breakdown of common brands.
| Brand Tier | Brands | Quality & Reputation |
|---|---|---|
| Premium Aftermarket | Raybestos, Centric | These brands are well-regarded in the industry. Raybestos, in particular, has been noted by Mazda 5 owners for making rotors that resist warping better than others. Centric is also a solid choice, though one owner reported issues with their rotors on a Mazda 5. Both are generally considered reliable, professional-grade parts. |
| Performance-Oriented | Dynamic Friction (DFC) | A legitimate brand that often receives positive reviews for performance, sometimes exceeding OEM pads. The main downside mentioned is that their performance pads can create a lot of brake dust. Some users have noted occasional fitment or finish issues on their budget-focused products. |
| Economy | Dorman, Carlson | Dorman has a very mixed reputation; while they make a huge variety of parts, quality can be inconsistent. For a critical component like brakes, it's often worth spending a few extra dollars for a more trusted brand. Carlson is a common hardware provider and is part of the same parent company as Centric and Raybestos. |
Pro Tip: Look for hardware kits made from stainless steel or with a protective coating. These will offer better corrosion resistance than basic plated steel, which is especially important for the Mazda 5's rear brakes if you live in an area where roads are salted in winter.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Do I really need to replace my brake hardware every time?
Yes. For the low cost of a hardware kit, it is cheap insurance against brake noise, dragging, and uneven wear. The old clips lose tension and corrode, preventing the new pads from working as they should. On a Mazda 5, it's especially important for preventing the known rear brake dragging issue.
Is a special tool needed to change the rear brakes on a Mazda 5?
Yes. The rear caliper pistons on the 2006-2017 Mazda 5 must be rotated as they are pushed back into the caliper. You cannot simply compress them with a C-clamp like the front brakes. You will need a disc brake caliper tool kit, which can be purchased inexpensively or often rented from auto parts stores.
🎬 Watch how to properly use a brake caliper piston wind back tool.Why are my rear brakes making a grinding noise?
Grinding usually means the brake pad material has completely worn away, and you now have metal-on-metal contact between the pad's backing plate and the brake rotor. This is a serious safety issue that damages the rotor and greatly reduces stopping power. Stop driving the vehicle and have the brakes serviced immediately.
Can I just clean my old hardware instead of replacing it?
While cleaning the caliper bracket itself is crucial, you should not reuse the old hardware clips. They are spring metal and lose their tension over time from heat and stress. Even if they look clean, they won't hold the new pads with the correct pressure, which can lead to rattles and improper movement.
Helpful Videos
Technical Specifications
Kit typically includes anti-rattle clips and pad abutment clips for one axle (two wheels).
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The information in this article is provided for general reference and educational purposes only. Vehicle specifications, procedures, and part compatibility can vary by production date, trim level, and region. Always consult your vehicle's factory service manual and verify part numbers before purchasing or performing repairs. Safety-critical components such as airbags, seat belts, and braking systems should be installed by a qualified professional.
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