GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Removal Procedure

Caution: Do not move the vehicle until a firm brake pedal is obtained. Failure to obtain a firm pedal before moving vehicle may result in personal injury.

  1. Remove one-third of the brake fluid from the master cylinder.
  2. Raise and suitably support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle in General Information.
  3. Mark the relationship of the wheel to the hub.
  4. Remove the front tire and wheel assembly. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation in Tires and Wheels.

  5. Object Number: 177027  Size: SH
  6. Install a large C-clamp (2) over the top of the brake caliper and against the back of the outboard brake pad.
  7. Tighten the C-clamp until the caliper piston is pushed into the caliper bore enough to slide the caliper off the rotor.
  8. Notice: Do not allow calipers to hang from the flexible hoses. Doing so can damage the hoses.


    Object Number: 176035  Size: SH
  9. If you remove the caliper from the vehicle for unit repair (overhaul), then remove the brake hose bolt that attaches the inlet fitting. If only the brake pads are being replaced, do not disconnect the inlet fitting.
  10. Plug the openings in the caliper housing (3) and the pipe in order to prevent brake fluid loss and contamination.

  11. Object Number: 185495  Size: SH
  12. Remove the caliper bolts (3).
  13. Remove the caliper housing (1) from the rotor and the caliper bracket (2).
  14. Inspect the bolt boots for the following conditions:
  15. • Cuts
    • Tears
    • Deterioration
    • Replace the bolt boots if damage exists.
  16. Inspect the piston boot for the following conditions:
  17. • Cuts
    • Tears
    • Deterioration
    • Replace the bolt boots in the caliper bracket if damage exists. Refer to Front Brake Caliper Overhaul .
  18. Inspect the bolt boots in the caliper bracket for the following conditions:
  19. • Cuts
    • Tears
    • Deterioration
    • Replace the bolt boots in the caliper bracket if damage exists. Refer to Front Brake Caliper Bracket Replacement .

    Object Number: 177025  Size: SH
  20. Inspect the caliper bolts (1) for corrosion or damage. If corrosion is found, use new parts, including bushings, when installing the caliper. Do not attempt to polish away corrosion.

Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 185495  Size: SH
  1. Install the caliper housing (1) over the rotor and the caliper bracket (2). Ensure that the bushings are in place.

  2. Object Number: 177025  Size: SH
  3. Lubricate the caliper bolts (1). Use silicone grease. Do not lubricate the threads.

  4. Object Number: 177016  Size: SH
  5. Lubricate the two bolt boots (5) in the caliper bracket (6). Use silicone grease.

  6. Object Number: 185495  Size: SH

    Notice: Use the correct fastener in the correct location. Replacement fasteners must be the correct part number for that application. Fasteners requiring replacement or fasteners requiring the use of thread locking compound or sealant are identified in the service procedure. Do not use paints, lubricants, or corrosion inhibitors on fasteners or fastener joint surfaces unless specified. These coatings affect fastener torque and joint clamping force and may damage the fastener. Use the correct tightening sequence and specifications when installing fasteners in order to avoid damage to parts and systems.

  7. Install the caliper bolts (1). Use a screwdriver in order to push the bolt boot over the shoulder of the caliper bolt. Ensure that the bolt boot fits securely in the groove of the pin bolt.
  8. Tighten
    Tighten the caliper bolts to 85 N·m (63 lb ft).

    Important: Replace the copper gaskets.

  9. Install the brake hose bolt, if removed.
  10. Tighten
    Tighten the brake hose bolt to 54 N·m(40 lb ft).

  11. Remove the wheel nuts securing the rotor to the hub.
  12. Install the front tire and the wheel assembly. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation in Tires and Wheels.
  13. Lower the vehicle.
  14. Fill the master cylinder to the proper level with clean brake fluid. Refer to Master Cylinder Reservoir Filling in Hydraulic Brakes.
  15. Bleed the caliper if the inlet fitting was removed. Refer to Hydraulic Brake System Bleeding in Hydraulic Brakes.
  16. Firmly apply the brake pedal three times after bleeding, if necessary.
  17. Inspect the hydraulic brake system for brake fluid leaks. Refer to Brake Fluid Leak in Hydraulic Brakes.