Front Disc Brake Pads Replacement

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2006 Buick Lucerne. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

Fig 1: Replacing Front Disc Brake Pads

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS CORP.

Callout	Component Name
CAUTION: Refer to Brake Fluid Irritant Caution . CAUTION: Refer to Brake Dust Caution . NOTE: Refer to Brake Fluid Effects on Paint and Electrical Components Notice . NOTE: Support the brake caliper with heavy mechanic wire or equivalent, whenever it is separated from its mount and the hydraulic flexible brake hose is still connected. Failure to support the caliper in this manner will cause the flexible brake hose to bear the weight of the caliper, which may cause damage to the brake hose and in turn may cause a brake fluid leak. Preliminary Procedures Inspect the fluid level in the brake master cylinder reservoir. If the brake fluid level is midway between the maximum-full point and the minimum allowable level, no brake fluid needs to be removed from the reservoir before proceeding. If the brake fluid level is higher than midway between the maximum-full point and the minimum allowable level, remove brake fluid to the midway point before proceeding. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle . Remove the tire and wheel. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation .
1	Guide Pin Bolt NOTE: Refer to Fastener Notice . Tighten: 36 N.m (27 lb ft) IMPORTANT: Install an open end wrench to hold the caliper guide pin in line with the brake caliper while removing or installing the caliper guide pin bolt. DO NOT allow the open end wrench to come in contact with the brake caliper. Tip: Hold the brake caliper guide pin stationary when removing the guide pin bolt.
2	Brake Caliper Tip: Rotate the brake caliper up and to the rear until it rests on the mounting bracket and support with heavy mechanics wire or equivalent. Place a block of wood or an old disc brake pad against the brake caliper pistons. Using a suitable tool, slowly compress the brake caliper pistons squarely into the caliper bores.
3	Brake Pads
4	Spring Retainer (Qty: 2) Tip: If replacing the brake pads, DO NOT reuse the spring retainers. Use NEW spring retainers only. With the engine OFF, gradually apply the brake pedal to approximately 2/3 of its travel distance. Slowly release the brake pedal. Wait 15 seconds, then repeat steps 2-3 until a firm brake pedal is obtained. This will properly seat the brake caliper pistons and brake pads. Fill the master cylinder reservoir to the proper level. Refer to Master Cylinder Reservoir Filling . Burnish the pads and rotors. Refer to Brake Pad and Rotor Burnishing .