
RDA Brakes · Part number RDB1285 · NZ$93.00 incl. GST
Right, for a trusty 4x4 like your Landy Discovery or Defender, decent brake pads are absolutely vital. They're what turns all that forward motion into stopping power, especially when you're tackling tough off-road tracks or towing the boat.
NZ$93.00 including GST. Part number RDB1285.
Swapping Out Your Brake Pads — Featuring RDA
> Brake pads are one of those things you can't skimp on, especially on a Land Rover. They're the bit that clamps down on the rotors to bring you to a halt. Over time, they take a hammering from heat and friction, especially if you're giving your Discovery or Defender a proper workout. Ignoring worn pads means your braking just won't be up to scratch. Time to get them sorted.
Symptoms That Led You Here
• Squealing like a pig, grinding, or chirping when you hit the brakes.
• Brakes feeling soft or 'spongy'.
• The steering wheel or brake pedal vibrating like crazy when you brake.
• Taking way too long to stop, especially when you're loaded up or off the beaten track.
• A light popped up on the dash telling you the pads are knackered.
Will it pass WOF?
Nah mate, worn brake pads are a guaranteed fail on your Warrant of Fitness (WOF) here in New Zealand. They need to have enough meat left on them (usually over 1.5mm) and work properly without making a racket or shuddering. Dodgy brakes are a serious safety issue.
DIY or Workshop?
Difficulty: 6/10 (A decent afternoon's work)
Estimated Time: 1-2 hours per axle
What you'll need: Jack, jack stands (never trust just a jack!), wheel wrench, a G-clamp or proper brake piston tool, brake cleaner spray, torque wrench, a basic socket set, and maybe a wire brush.
🛠️ Bob's "Get It Done Right" Companion Checklist
Alright, before you crack into this job, let's make sure you're set up for success. This isn't just about swapping pads; it's about doing it safely and properly. Here’s what Bob recommends:
• Safety First, Mates!: Never, ever get under a car that's only held up by a jack. Use proper Jack Stands. Safety glasses are a no-brainer to keep brake dust out of your eyes.
• Keep it Clean: Brake dust is nasty stuff. Grab some Brake Cleaner spray to blast away the crud. It'll help you see what you're doing and keep everything working smoothly.
• Glove Up: Protect your hands with some heavy-duty Nitrile Gloves. Brake cleaner and old brake fluid aren't exactly skin-friendly.
• Grease is Key: Use a dab of anti-seize caliper grease on the pad contact points to prevent squealing and ensure smooth movement. A little goes a long way!
Expert Recommendation
Bob at CARFIX reckons you should get those brake pads sorted as soon as you spot any wear. Especially on your Land Rover, where you might be giving it some stick, good brakes are a must. The RDA pads are a pretty good bet, giving you reliable performance that'll handle most of what NZ throws at you. Bob's always here to lend a hand figuring out exactly what you need for your Landy. Swing by Bob's Shop for a yarn!
Fitment Notes
These pads will fit a bunch of Land Rover models, including the Range Rover Vogue (1985-1990), Range Rover TD (1989-1992), Discovery V8 (1998-2004), Defender Td4 (2006-2016), and heaps of other Discovery and Defender models. Just double-check the fit for your exact year and engine, Land Rover made so many variations. Bob's always here to help if you get stuck.
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🛠️ Bob's Pro Tip: Do the Job Right!
> DF2791S)](/parts/DF2791S) to ensure a perfect bed-in and get the job done properly first time!
🧰 What Else You'll Need:
• Safety First: Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack. Always secure it on heavy-duty safety jack stands.
• Brake Dust Protection: Brakes get incredibly dirty. Keep a pack of Nitrile Gloves handy to protect your hands from stubborn brake dust.
• Clean and Prep: Use a high-quality Brake Cleaner spray to blast away stubborn dust, oil, and road grime from the caliper assembly and new rotors before reassembly.
• Lubrication: Apply a thin smear of high-temperature caliper grease to the pad backing plates and slide pins (keep it off the pad friction material!) to prevent squeals and ensure smooth caliper operation.