Removal (Front)
WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2003 Pontiac Aztek and 2003 Buick Rendezvous. 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 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, 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 lower brake caliper bolt.
- Rotate the brake caliper upward in order to access the brake pads.
- Remove the brake pads from the brake caliper bracket.
- Remove the brake pad retainers from the brake caliper bracket.
- 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
- 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.