Loosen lugs and lift the rear
With the tC on the ground, crack the rear lug nuts loose. Jack up the rear, secure it on jack stands, release the parking brake, and remove the rear wheels.
Video at 0:00
2005–2010 Scion tC
By Tom Becker ✓ Certified Mechanic · Published Sep 24, 2026 · Updated Oct 20, 2026
Save $302 by doing it yourself! Shop cost: $365
Quick answer: Rear Brake Pads Replacement on a 2005–2010 Scion tC is rated Moderate and takes about 1–2 hours. You'll need 6 tools for this job, and parts cost about $63. This guide walks you through the full job step by step, including the mistakes to avoid.
| Part Name | Part Number | Price | Buy |
|---|---|---|---|
| Rear brake pad set (correct for 2005–2010 Scion tC) | — | $51.00 | |
| Brake cleaner | — | $7.00 | |
| Brake grease / anti-seize for pad contact points | — | $5.00 | |
| Anti-rattle clip set | — | — |
|
About prices: shown prices are typical retail averages and change frequently; cheaper alternatives may be available. Confirm the current price before buying.
💡 Pro tip: Order all parts at once to save on shipping
Follow these steps carefully
With the tC on the ground, crack the rear lug nuts loose. Jack up the rear, secure it on jack stands, release the parking brake, and remove the rear wheels.
Video at 0:00
Locate the two caliper bracket bolts on the back of the rear caliper. Remove the caliper bolts, then slide the caliper off the rotor and hang it from the suspension with wire so the hose is not stressed.
Slide the old pads out of the caliper bracket and note their orientation. Pull the anti-rattle clips and shims, and inspect the rotor surface for deep scoring that would require replacement.
Open the brake fluid reservoir cap under the hood to relieve pressure.
Scrub the pad slide surfaces in the bracket with a wire brush and spray them with brake cleaner. Apply a thin film of brake grease to the pad ears' contact points and check that the slide pins move freely.
Fit the new anti-rattle clips into the bracket, then slide the fresh pads in with their friction material facing the rotor. Double-check that the wear-indicator tab is positioned correctly.
Slide the caliper back over the pads and rotor, then torque the caliper bolts to spec. Refit the wheel, hand-tighten the lugs, lower the car, and torque the lug nuts in a star pattern.
Pump the brake pedal several times until it feels firm before moving the car. Take a cautious test drive with a few moderate stops from 30 mph to bed the new pads, listening for any abnormal noise.
Test your repair before closing everything up. If something doesn't work right, double-check your steps.
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid