GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Removal Procedure

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

Caution: Support the brake caliper with heavy mechanic wire, or equivalent, whenever it is separated from its mount and the hydraulic flexible brake hose is still connected. Failure to support the caliper in this manner will cause the flexible brake hose to bear the weight of the caliper, which may cause damage to the brake hose and in turn may cause a brake fluid leak.

  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 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. Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle.
  5. Remove the tire and wheel assembly. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation.

  6. Object Number: 2049712  Size: SH
  7. Remove the lower brake caliper guide pin bolt (1).

  8. Object Number: 2049715  Size: SH
  9. Pivot the brake caliper (1) upward and support with heavy mechanics wire or equivalent.
  10. Place a block of wood or an old brake pad against the brake caliper pistons.
  11. Using a brake pad spreader tool or equivalent, fully seat the caliper pistons in the caliper bores.

  12. Object Number: 2049718  Size: SH
  13. Remove the inner (1) and outer (2) brake pads.
  14. Note the location of the brake pad wear sensors for correct installation.


    Object Number: 2049721  Size: SH
  15. Remove the brake pad shims (1).
  16. If installing new brake pads, discard the shims.

Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 2049721  Size: SH
  1. Install the brake pad shims (1).
  2. If installing new brake pads, install new shims.


    Object Number: 2049718  Size: SH
  3. Install the inner (1) and outer (2) brake pads.
  4. Note the location of the brake pad wear sensors for correct installation.

    Caution: Refer to Fastener Caution in the Preface section.


    Object Number: 2049712  Size: SH
  5. Pivot the brake caliper into position, install the lower brake caliper guide pin bolt (1) and tighten the bolt to 42 N·m (31 lb ft).
  6. Install the tire and wheel assembly. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation.
  7. Lower the vehicle.
  8. With the engine OFF, gradually apply the brake pedal to approximately 2/3 of its travel distance.
  9. Slowly release the brake pedal.
  10. Wait 15 seconds, then repeat steps 6-7 until a firm brake pedal is obtained. This will properly seat the brake caliper pistons and brake pads.
  11. Fill the master cylinder reservoir to the proper level. Refer to Master Cylinder Reservoir Filling.
  12. Burnish the pads and rotors. Refer to Brake Pad and Rotor Burnishing.