Hi. 2010 Prius. I replaced the front brake pads and rotors but forgot to note the position of a small metal tab that’s affixed to each pad on both the inner and outer pads. Does the tab go on the top or bottom? I am assuming these are the wear indicators but it seems the protruding metal portion is towards the back of each pad. If these are the wear indicators, then they would never contact the rotor in this orientation. Please see attached photo of the original factory brake pads. thank you.
That clip may be a combination pad wear screecher and positioning spring, pushing the pad toward the opposite arm of the bracket. Those are usually positioned so the pad is pushed the same way braking forward pushes it. That way, while you may hear a click when braking backward, you don't when braking forward, which is more common and therefore the way you want it.
Thank you for your suggestion. If I understand you correctly, this is the correct placement. When the pads are in place and the caliper is reinstalled, the metal clip is pushed against the rotor and the other end (the part towards the friction side) then protrudes towards the rotor. Once the pads are sufficiently worn down, the pushed-in part will contact the rotor and make the alerting sound. Best regards.
According to Toyota, on the top. Not that it REALLY matters, because you should be checking pad wear each time you change your oil and you'll notice when they are wearing out.
