Front Brake Pads: Removal

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Pontiac Vibe. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

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, then not 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, then remove brake fluid to the midway point before proceeding.
Raise and support the vehicle. Remove the tire and wheel. Install 2 wheel nuts in order to secure the rotor.
Install a C-clamp over the top of the brake caliper and against the back of the outboard brake pad. Tighten the C-clamp until the brake caliper piston pushes into the brake caliper bore enough to slide the brake caliper off of the rotor. Remove the C-clamp from the brake caliper.
Remove the caliper from the mounting bracket and support the caliper with heavy mechanics wire or equivalent. It is not necessary to disconnect the hydraulic brake flexible hose from the caliper. Remove the brake caliper. See FRONT BRAKE CALIPER .
Remove the brake pads from the brake caliper bracket. Remove the brake hardware from the brake caliper bracket. See Figure . Note the location of the upper retainer and the lower retainer. The upper retainer is not interchangeable with the lower retainer.
Insert a block of wood or the old brake pad brake between the C-clamp and the brake caliper piston in order to prevent damage to the brake caliper piston and the brake caliper piston boot. Install a C-clamp over the brake caliper and against the block of wood or the old brake pad. Tighten the C-clamp until the brake caliper piston pushes completely into the brake caliper bore. Remove the C-clamp from the brake caliper.
Inspect the brake caliper bolt boots for the following conditions:
- Cuts
- Tears
- Deterioration
Inspect the brake caliper piston boot for the following conditions:
- Cuts
- Tears
- Deterioration
Replace components if damage exists. Inspect the brake caliper bolts for corrosion or damage. If corrosion is found, use NEW parts, including bushings, when installing the brake caliper. Do not attempt to polish away corrosion.