GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Removal Procedure

Caution: Refer to Brake Fluid Irritant Caution in the Preface section.

Caution: Refer to Brake Dust Caution in the Preface section.

Notice: Refer to Brake Fluid Effects on Paint and Electrical Components Notice in the Preface section.

Notice: Refer to Brake Caliper Notice in the Preface section.


    Object Number: 787456  Size: SH
  1. If the brake fluid is midway between the maximum-full and the minimum allowable level, no brake fluid needs to be removed from the reservoir before proceeding.

  2. Object Number: 787455  Size: SH
  3. If the brake level is higher than midway between the maximum-full and minimum allowable level, remove the brake fluid with the appropriate tool to the midway point before proceeding.
  4. Remove the tire and wheel assembly. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation .
  5. Using denatured alcohol, clean the front caliper assembly.

  6. Object Number: 820903  Size: SH
  7. Install a large C-clamp over the top of the brake caliper housing and against the back of the of the outboard brake pad.
  8. Slowly tighten the C-clamp until the pistons are fully seated in the brake caliper bore.
  9. Remove the C-clamp from the brake caliper.

  10. Object Number: 786430  Size: SH

    Important: It is not necessary to remove the slide pins to remove the brake pads.

  11. Remove the lower brake caliper mounting bolt.

  12. Object Number: 1241479  Size: SH
  13. Rotate the brake caliper upward until it stops on the brake caliper mounting bracket.

  14. Object Number: 1241371  Size: SH
  15. Remove the inboard brake pad.

  16. Object Number: 1241369  Size: SH
  17. Remove the outboard brake pad.

  18. Object Number: 1241374  Size: SH
  19. Remove the brake pad shims from the mounting bracket and discard.

Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 1241374  Size: SH

    Important: When installing the new brake pads, DO NOT reuse the old retaining clips. Use only the NEW retaining clips that come with the brake pads.

  1. Install the NEW brake pads retaining clips.

  2. Object Number: 1241369  Size: SH
  3. Install the outboard brake pad.

  4. Object Number: 1241371  Size: SH
  5. Install the inboard brake pad.

  6. Object Number: 786430  Size: SH
  7. Lower the brake caliper back into it's proper location.
  8. Notice: Refer to Fastener Notice in the Preface section.

  9. Install the lower brake caliper guide pin bolt.
  10. Tighten
    Tighten the brake caliper guide pin bolt to 40 N·m (29 lb ft).


    Object Number: 1253298  Size: SH
  11. Install the tire and wheel assembly. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation .
  12. Lower the vehicle.
  13. Add brake fluid to the master cylinder if needed, so the fluid is between the maximum and minimum level.
  14. Pump the brake slowly and firmly to seat the brake pads.
  15. Caution: Refer to Firm Brake Pedal Caution in the Preface section.

    Important: The following service procedure may need to be repeated to obtain a firm brake pedal.

  16. Pump the brakes slowly and firmly to seat the brake pads.
  17. 10.1. With the engine OFF, gradually apply the brake pedal to approximately 2/3 of its travel distance.
    10.2. Slowly release the pedal.
    10.3. Wait 15 seconds, apply the pressure to check for a firm pedal. This will properly seat the brake caliper pistons and brake pads.

    Object Number: 787455  Size: SH
  18. Fill the master cylinder to the required level. Refer to Master Cylinder Reservoir Filling .
  19. Burnish the new brake pads. Refer to Brake Pad and Rotor Burnishing .