Modified on Fri, 28 Nov at 11:20 AM

Troubleshooting | Resetting Stuck Brake Pads

In this article: You’ll learn how to reopen hydraulic brake pads that have closed together after the brake lever was squeezed without a wheel installed. This is common during unboxing or transport and can be fixed at home in a few minutes.

This Article Applies to the Following Bikes

Difficulty

★☆☆ Easy

Estimated Time

5 - 10 Min

Before You Start

Tools you will need

• Any flat, non-sharp tool will work: Putty knife, butter knife, kitchen spatula, flathead screwdriver, or the Park Tool Disc Brake Pad Spreader.

Preparation

• Turn the bike off.
• Position the bike so you can easily access the brake caliper and insert the wheel. You can place the bike on a repair stand, or carefully flip it upside down (link to remove wheels one)
• Make sure your hands and tools are clean (avoid contaminating the brake pads with grease).

Steps 

Step 1: Confirm the Pads Are Stuck

• Look at the brake caliper where the rotor normally sits.

• If the gap between the pads is extremely thin or completely closed, they were pressed together while the wheel was off.

Step 2: Insert a Flat Tool Between the Pads

• Choose a flat tool (in this case, a butter knife).

• Gently slide your tool between the two brake pads.

Step 3: Slowly Pry the Pads Apart

• Apply light, even pressure on the tool to push the pads back to their neutral position. A small wiggle can help them open evenly.

Step 4: Check the Pad Gap

• The opening should now be wide enough for the brake rotor to slide freely.

• If still too tight, repeat Step 3 with steady pressure.

Step 5: Reinstall the Front Wheel

• Guide the rotor straight into the center of the brake pads, and tighten the axle/quick release securely.

• If needed, check this guide for detailed instructions on how to remove and remount wheels.

Step 6: Test the Brake Lever

• Squeeze the brake lever 2–3 times. The lever should feel firm, not mushy.

• Spin the wheel to ensure it rotates freely without rubbing.

Troubleshooting

• Wheel won’t slide into the caliper → The pads may still be too close. Remove the wheel and repeat the spreading process using your flat tool until the rotor fits freely.

• Rotor rubs after reinstalling the wheel → Loosen the two caliper mounting bolts slightly, squeeze the brake lever once to center the caliper, then re-tighten the bolts. Here’s a quick video that explains how to do it. 

• Pads won’t spread at all → Use a wider flat tool such as a plastic tire lever or spackle knife. Apply slow, steady pressure until the pistons reset.

• Brake lever feels soft or pulls to the handlebar → Spread the pads again using your tool, reinstall the wheel, and test the brake lever until it becomes firm.

• Pads keep closing again while reinstalling the wheel → Avoid touching the brake lever until the wheel is fully installed. If it happens again, simply repeat the spreading process.

FAQs

• Why do the brake pads close when the wheel is removed?
  They self-adjust. When the lever is squeezed without a rotor between them, the pistons move inward and stay there.

• Is this harmful to the brakes?
  No. It’s a common unboxing issue and fully reversible.

• Can I prevent this from happening again?
  Yes. Avoid using the brake lever when the wheel is removed, or insert a brake pad spacer during maintenance.

• Do I need a special tool for this?
  No. Any flat household tool works, including a butter knife, spackle knife, or flathead screwdriver.

• What if my rotor still won’t fit after spreading the pads?
  The pads may still be slightly closed or the wheel may not be fully seated. Spread the pads again and ensure the wheel is centered in the fork.

Warning

⚠️ Important Safety & Liability Notice

These instructions are provided as a general guide for MOD BIKES products. Always ensure that the wheel is fully seated in the fork and that all bolts, quick-release skewers, and fasteners are properly tightened before riding. Improper assembly or maintenance may result in damage, injury, or voiding of warranty.

If you are not confident performing these steps, please seek assistance from a qualified MOD BIKES technician or authorized service provider. MOD BIKES shall not be held liable for injury, damage, or loss caused by improper use, assembly, or failure to follow these guidelines. Local laws and regulations may apply.