GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

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

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

  1. Inspect the fluid level in the brake master cylinder reservoir.
  2. If the brake fluid level is midway between the maximum-full point and the minimum allowable level, no brake fluid needs to be removed from the reservoir before proceeding.
  3. If the brake fluid level is higher than midway between the maximum-full point and the minimum allowable level, remove brake fluid to the midway point before proceeding.

  4. Object Number: 142234  Size: SH
  5. Install a large C-clamp, over the body of the brake caliper with the C-clamp ends against the rear of the caliper body and against the outer brake pad.
  6. Tighten the C-clamp until the caliper piston is compressed into the caliper bore leaving a gap of approximately 10 mm (0.38 in) between the disc brake pads and the brake rotor.
  7. Remove the C-clamp from the caliper.
  8. Grasp the brake caliper and attempt to move the brake caliper vertically. The brake caliper should not exhibit excessive looseness.
  9. Grasp the brake caliper and move the brake caliper inboard and outboard. The brake caliper should slide smoothly with minimal force.

  10. Object Number: 927124  Size: SH
  11. Inspect the disc brake pad retainers.
  12. Inspect the disc brake pad mounting hardware and the disc brake pads for the following:
  13. • Bent mounting tabs
    • Excessive corrosion
    • Looseness at the steering knuckle
    • Looseness at the disc brake pads
    • Missing mounting hardware
  14. If any of the conditions listed are found, the disc brake pads require replacement.
  15. Ensure the disc brake pads are held firmly in place on the steering knuckle, yet slide easily on the knuckle without binding.

  16. Object Number: 142246  Size: SH
  17. Inspect the brake caliper bolts (1) by gently pulling the caliper outward, then push the caliper inward, and observe for the following:
  18. • Bent or damaged brake caliper bolts (1)
    • Bent or damaged brake caliper assembly
    • Restricted caliper sliding movement
    • Corrosion
    • Split or torn bushings (2)
    • Missing bushings
    • Looseness in the brake caliper assembly
    • Seized caliper bolts
  19. If any of the conditions listed are found, the brake caliper mounting hardware requires replacement.