Brake Sensor (Front) Damaged do I need to pull pads to install?

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machmike

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One of my front brake sensors (Front) is damaged and alerting. My pads are great with only a few thousand miles on them.
Do I need to pull pads to install the wear sensor? Or can I snap it in place without removing the pad mechanism?

Just curious.

Thanks
 

Mozambique

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No, you just need to attach the new one and the end of it inserts into a slot in the caliper as I recall
 

machmike

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That's what i thought too. But wanted to confirm.

Thank you good sir.
 

2kewlgypsy

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Correct no need to remove a new pad for this. I would place the new one on the pad end before removing the old one completely. That way you can make sure all the clips are on the right spot as you work your way to the connection. Pulling the wheel makes it easier, and turn the steering wheel all the way to that side before starting.
 

machmike

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Any suggestions on where to buy from? I'm in Colorado.

Lucky8?
 

ktm525

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I wouldn't bother. Just cut wire and splice together. With the single piston caliper pad wear is likely to be uneven anyhow. You sound like a handy guy so once in awhile just look to check pad condition.
 

ryanjl

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Almost everyone who's not a Land Rover dealer sells aftermarket sensors. One is probably just as good as the other. I got mine from Atlantic British but don't remember the brand.
 

jlach993

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cut and tied together those wires since truck was new with first brake job.....just keep an eye on your brakes the old fashioned way.
 

Waterndirt

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I've had no problems with these https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0066QW3AM/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1

I had no idea I had pad life sensors when I first bought the vehicle and have only seen a brake pad sensor trigger once. Now I know.

Down the road, if they don't wear through and you're able to reuse them, carefully wiggle them out with a pair of needle nose pliers as they get really brittle and break.

I can see where the others guys are coming from, splice the wires and pay attention, but for me, $16 is cheap insurance.
 

txfromwi

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Agreed, you do not need to pull the pads to replace the sensor. On my 2013 and 2016 LR4's there is one front sensor on the drivers side and one rear sensor on the passengers side.
Turn wheels to the right, remove wheel, jack it up and use appropriate safety stands as you will be laying underneath to get to the connector.

My sensors are from AB and AB has now sent me sensors by various manufacturers, they all work fine. But they are easy enough to damage so be cautious when installing.
I would never re-use and they are cheap enough, so just install new ones.

Personally I do not splice, I replace the entire assembly. The connector is up inside the wheel well, and it's a little booger to get apart. You will need to pop, as I recall at least 4 of those little plastic "pop rivet tabs" to free up the fender liner. if you are careful when you remove them they can be reused, but I now have a bunch in the tool box- they are available AB or Amazon.

if you want to use Rover, my go to online vendor is Palm Beach Rover. They are super easy to work with and always very helpful. And even if you don't buy from them the diagrams are a great way to find part numbers.
 
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