2017 Honda Fit Front Brake Pads: Everything You Need to Know About Replacement, Maintenance, and Performance​

If you own a 2017 Honda Fit—or are considering buying one—the condition of your front brake pads is critical to your safety, driving experience, and long-term vehicle value. Front brake pads on the 2017 Fit wear out faster than rear pads due to weight distribution during braking (up to 70% of stopping power comes from the front wheels), making them a top maintenance priority. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know: how to spot wear, when to replace them, choosing the right pads, DIY vs. professional installation, and tips to extend their lifespan. By the end, you’ll have the knowledge to keep your Fit’s brakes reliable and performant for years.

Why Front Brake Pads Matter More on the 2017 Honda Fit

The 2017 Honda Fit is a subcompact car known for fuel efficiency, agility, and practicality—but its braking system demands attention. Unlike larger vehicles, the Fit’s lightweight design (around 2,500 lbs) means front brakes handle a disproportionate amount of stopping force. Over time, this leads to faster wear on the front pads compared to the rear. Neglecting them can result in reduced stopping power, longer brake distances, noise, vibration, or even damage to rotors (which are far costlier to replace than pads).

Honda’s engineering prioritizes safety, but the stock brake pads are designed for balanced performance, not extreme longevity. Depending on your driving habits, they may need replacement every 30,000–60,000 miles—a wide range that underscores the importance of regular inspections.

How to Tell When Your 2017 Fit’s Front Brake Pads Need Replacement

Waiting until you hear grinding noises is risky; by then, metal-on-metal contact has likely damaged the rotors. Instead, monitor these early warning signs:

1. Squealing or Scraping Noises

Most 2017 Fit brake pads come with wear indicators—small metal tabs that scrape the rotor when the pad thickness drops below ~3mm (about 1/8 inch). These produce a high-pitched squeal during braking, even at low speeds. Don’t ignore this; it’s your first clear signal to inspect the pads.

2. Reduced Braking Responsiveness

If you notice your Fit takes longer to stop, or the pedal feels “soft” (sinks further before engaging), worn pads could be the culprit. Worn pads increase stopping distance by 10–20% in some cases, which is dangerous in emergencies.

3. Visible Wear Through the Wheel Rims

The 2017 Fit’s wheels are relatively small, but you can still check pad thickness with a flashlight. Remove the front wheel (use a lug wrench; no jack needed if you’re just peeking), and look at the brake caliper. The pad should have at least 3mm of friction material remaining. If it’s thinner than that, replace immediately.

4. Vibration or Pulsation in the Brake Pedal

Uneven pad wear (often from warped rotors or contaminated pads) can cause the pedal to vibrate when braking. This isn’t just uncomfortable—it means your brakes aren’t working evenly, reducing effectiveness.

Step-by-Step: Replacing 2017 Honda Fit Front Brake Pads Yourself

If you’re handy with tools and want to save money ($150–$400 in parts vs. $300–$600 at a shop), DIY replacement is feasible. Here’s how:

Tools You’ll Need:

• Jack and jack stands (or a hydraulic lift)

• Lug wrench

• C-clamp or brake piston tool

• Socket set (including 14mm and 17mm sockets)

• Torque wrench

• Wire brush or brake cleaner

• Gloves and safety glasses

Step 1: Lift and Secure the Vehicle

Park on a flat surface, chock the rear wheels, and use a jack to lift the front of the Fit. Place jack stands under the frame rails for safety, then lower the car onto the stands. Remove the front wheels with the lug wrench.

Step 2: Remove the Caliper

Locate the front brake caliper, held in place by two bolts (usually 14mm). Loosen and remove these bolts, then carefully lift the caliper off the rotor. Do not let the caliper hang by the brake hose—use a bungee cord to hang it from the suspension or frame.

Step 3: Compress the Piston

The old pad will be stuck to the piston. Use a C-clamp or brake piston tool to slowly push the piston back into the caliper bore. This is crucial—new pads are thicker, and the piston needs to retract to fit over them. Watch the brake fluid reservoir (near the firewall under the hood); if it overflows, suction some fluid out with a turkey baster.

Step 4: Install New Pads

Remove any rust or debris from the caliper bracket with a wire brush. Insert the new pads into the bracket, ensuring they sit flush. Some pads come with shims or anti-rattle clips—install these as directed (they prevent noise and keep pads stable).

Step 5: Reassemble and Bed the Brakes

Slide the caliper back over the pads and rotor, then reinsert the bolts. Tighten them to Honda’s spec (usually 25–30 ft-lbs—check your service manual). Repeat for the other front wheel.

Finally, bed the brakes: Drive gently, then make 5–10 slow, firm stops from 30 mph. This transfers friction material from the pad to the rotor, ensuring even wear and optimal performance.

Choosing the Right 2017 Honda Fit Front Brake Pads: Material, Brand, and Compatibility

Not all brake pads are created equal. The 2017 Fit’s braking system is compatible with most aftermarket pads, but your choice depends on driving style:

1. Ceramic Pads

• ​Best for: Daily commuting, quiet operation, low dust.

• ​Pros: Made from ceramic fibers and copper, they’re quiet, produce minimal dust, and resist heat fade.

• ​Cons: Slightly higher upfront cost; may not handle extreme heat as well as semi-metallic pads.

• ​Top picks: Akebono ProACT Ultra Ceramic, Bosch QuietCast Elite.

2. Semi-Metallic Pads

• ​Best for: Aggressive driving, towing, or frequent mountain roads.

• ​Pros: Contain metal fibers for better heat dissipation and fade resistance. They last longer under heavy use.

• ​Cons: Noisier, produce more dust, and may cause slight rotor wear over time.

• ​Top picks: EBC Yellowstuff, Power Stop Z23.

3. Organic Pads

• ​Best for: Light driving, budget-friendly options.

• ​Pros: Made from organic materials (rubber, Kevlar), they’re soft, quiet, and inexpensive.

• ​Cons: Wear quickly under hard braking; not ideal for spirited driving.

• ​Top picks: AC Delco Professional Organic, Wagner ThermoQuiet.

​Note: Stick to pads labeled for the 2017 Honda Fit (or 2015–2020 Fit models, as they share the same front brake setup). Avoid generic “universal” pads—they may not fit or perform well.

The Cost of Replacing 2017 Fit Front Brake Pads: What to Expect

• ​DIY: $150–$400 (pads only; add $50–$100 for rotors if they’re warped).

• ​Professional service: $300–$600 (includes labor, pads, and rotor resurfacing if needed).

Honda OEM pads (part number 11411-PWA-305) cost around $80–$120 per set. Aftermarket brands like Akebono or Bosch are often cheaper and perform just as well. Always factor in rotor condition—if they’re scored or warped, resurfacing ($50–$100 per axle) or replacement ($200–$300) may be necessary.

Extending the Life of Your 2017 Fit’s Front Brake Pads

With proper care, you can stretch pad life to 60,000+ miles:

• ​Avoid riding the brakes: Constant pressure heats pads and rotors, accelerating wear. Coast to slow down when possible.

• ​Warm up brakes in cold weather: Cold pads don’t grip as well—drive gently for the first few minutes until they warm up.

• ​Inspect pads every 10,000 miles: Use the wheel-rim check method to catch wear early.

• ​Clean brakes annually: Brake dust attracts moisture, leading to rust. Use a brake cleaner on calipers and rotors.

Common Myths About 2017 Honda Fit Front Brake Pads

• ​Myth: “Ceramic pads are too expensive for a Fit.”

  ​Fact: While pricier upfront, they last longer and reduce rotor wear—saving money long-term.

• ​Myth: “You can’t replace pads yourself; the caliper is too complex.”

  ​Fact: The 2017 Fit uses a simple floating caliper design—removing it is straightforward with basic tools.

• ​Myth: “New pads don’t need bedding.”

  ​Fact: Bedding aligns the friction material with the rotor, ensuring even wear. Skipping it can cause noise and reduced performance.

Final Thoughts: Keeping Your 2017 Fit’s Brakes Safe and Reliable

Front brake pads are the unsung heroes of your 2017 Honda Fit’s safety. By understanding wear signs, choosing the right pads, and staying proactive with maintenance, you’ll avoid costly repairs and enjoy confident stopping power. Whether you tackle the job yourself or trust a pro, prioritizing your brakes ensures your Fit remains fun, safe, and reliable for miles to come.