change break pads, first time Options

[Cormudgen]

i changed my font brake pads jsut now. its the first time i have done anything with brakes. the reason i changed them is b/c they had been squeeling and my break light in my dash stays on constantly. anyway, so far it seems as if the squealing has stopped but the light didnt go off. also, my pedal feels kinda spongey.

what could cause the brake light to be staying on?
what do i need to do about the spongey brake pedal?

to admit i'm quite aggravated right now and am about to just take it to a fraeakin shop. i dont want to be doing my car any harm--and i also dont want to be endangin my life and those of others with crappy brakes.

cormudgen

[AudioFreak]

The light may be on because of low fluid level.

The spongy pedal means you've got air in the system. You're gonna have to bleed the brakes. Basicaly you crack open the bleeder on the caliper and have someone step on the pedal. A little air will probably come out followed by fluid. Once fluid comes out close the bleeder. Release the pedal and repeat. Do it a few times a t each wheel. Then double check the fluid level.

[aaronc222]

You can get a 'one man bleeder' kit at Autozone(or Advance, Pep Boys...). It's a small bottle with a hose that connects to the bleeder screw(located on the back of the caliper/drum). Start with the one furthest from the master cylinder(rear passenger) and work to the nearest(front driver).

Brakes are the second thing I learned about on my car. Just keep learning, and don't be afraid to try something, but take it to a mechanic if it seems like more than you can handle.