Front Brake Pads: Installation

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

Using a C-clamp, bottom the piston into the caliper bore. Use an old brake pad or wooden block across the face of the piston. DO NOT damage the piston or the caliper boot.
Install the 2 retainers to the caliper bracket.
NOTE: The wear sensor is on the outside pad. The sensor is positioned at the leading or upward edge of the pad during forward wheel rotation.
Install the pads to the caliper anchor bracket. Use care to avoid damaging pin boot when rotating caliper.
Remove the support and reposition the caliper back down over the front pads.
Lubricate the pin bolt and the inner diameter of the bolt boot with GM P/N 18047666, or equivalent. DO NOT lubricate the threads of the pin bolt.
Install the lower caliper bolt. Tighten the brake caliper bolts to specification. See TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS .
Remove the 2 wheel lug nuts retaining the rotor to the hub.
Install the tire and the wheel assembly. Tighten wheel lug nuts to specification. See TORQUE SPECIFICATIONS .
Lower the vehicle.
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 10 and 11 until a firm brake pedal is obtained. This will properly seat the brake caliper pistons and brake pads.
Fill the brake master cylinder reservoir to the proper level. See MASTER CYLINDER RESERVOIR FILLING under BLEEDING BRAKE SYSTEM.
Burnish the pads and rotors. See BURNISHING PADS & ROTORS under SERVICING.