[chrsja2]

Well it's time to get the the front brake pads replaced in my car. Since I don't feel like paying the estimated $90 to get it done, and the parts are pretty cheap, and I think I can do this, I'm going to replace them myself. The only problem is I've never done this. I was just wondering what tools I need (like anything special really) and what I can expect (and some helpful tips wouldn't hurt either ). Thanks for the advice if you have any!

 

[soup]

holy shit 90 bucks, you can do them yourself for 1/3 that and thats getting decent brakes!!!!

its really easy just pick up a haynes or chilton manual and they will explain everything you need. if you include the cost of the haynes or chiltons manual into the cost of the brakes your still only spendind half and it will take you about 30 minutes to complete.

 

[chrsja2]

How about a couple tips so I don't have to "include the cost." :wink:

 

[soup]

youll need

allen wrench (dont rmemeber the size)
jack,
jackstands (may or may not need but come in handy)
tire iron
c clamp

jack up the car and remove the wheels. lossen the caliper from the rotor using the allen wrench (usually allen sometimes torx)
remove brake pads

use c clamp to depress the cylinder pressing against pads.

insert new pads.
put caliper back on rotor, tighten bolts. put wheels back on

 

[soup]

i still recomend you getting that manual, if you own a car you should have one.

 

[ericksaint]

i still recomend you getting that manual, if you own a car you should have one.

I couldn't agree more. Usually the first thing I do when I buy a car is get it registered and buy the Haynes manual for it. I have a mini library of Haynes manuals on my shelf.

 

[soup]

having the manual will help you out more than you can imagine. it will tell you how to do almost any repair needed for your car. its an investment that will pay for it self the first day

 

[wehrengod]

haynes is definately useful. i actually own two, i temporarly lost my first copy when i moved. i found a chilton's on ebay that including shipping cost less than a haynes

 

[dave3156]

Some more tips on a front brake job: You may have to remove some brake fluid from the brake reservoir. If you don't, when you push the calipers open you could overflow the reservoir. Keep an eye on the brake fluid level when you push them back. You will need something to set the calipers on once you remove them. I have found a paint can is about the right height. Also check the rotors for ridges or grooves. You may need new rotors depending on how bad the old pads wore down. Also the dealership GM service manual for your year car would be a good book to have. You can get one off Ebay for about $25.

 

[speedemon]

Some more tips on a front brake job: You may have to remove some brake fluid from the brake reservoir. If you don't, when you push the calipers open you could overflow the reservoir. Keep an eye on the brake fluid level when you push them back. You will need something to set the calipers on once you remove them. I have found a paint can is about the right height. Also check the rotors for ridges or grooves. You may need new rotors depending on how bad the old pads wore down. Also the dealership GM service manual for your year car would be a good book to have. You can get one off Ebay for about $25.

uhm you shouldnt have to touch your fluid unless you top it up when it gets "low"...which you shouldnt even do. as the brake pads wear out the fluid takes up the space. but it doesnt mean that the fluid is getting low.