GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Removal Procedure

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

  4. Object Number: 178630  Size: SH
  5. Remove the caliper and support with mechanic's wire. Refer to Front Brake Caliper Replacement .

  6. Object Number: 219578  Size: SH

    Important: Do not attempt to pry or pull the brake pad wear sensor out of the brake pad. The brake pad wear sensor must be pushed out of the brake pad.

  7. Remove the inner brake pad from the caliper bracket with the brake pad wear sensor.
  8. Remove the brake pads (1) from the caliper bracket (2).
  9. Remove the brake pad wear sensor. Use a small punch to push the sensor throught the back side of the brake pad.
  10. Insect the following components:
  11. 8.1. Inspect the guide pins for free movement within the caliper bracket. Replace guide pins and or guide pin boots in the following conditions:
       • Corroded
       • Worn
       • Damaged
    8.2. Inspect the condition of the brake pad wear sensor, replace as needed.
    8.3. Inspect the brake pads for un-even wear.

Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 219578  Size: SH
  1. Ensure caliper bracket mounting surfaces (1) are clean and lubricated.

  2. Object Number: 178630  Size: SH
  3. Install the inner and outer pads (1) to the caliper bracket (2).
  4. Connect the brake pad wear sensor to the inner brake pads.
  5. Connect the brake pad wear sensor harness and retainers to the front suspension strut.
  6. Install the caliper. Refer to Front Brake Caliper Replacement .
  7. Install the tire and wheel assembly. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation in Tires and Wheels.
  8. Lower the vehicle.
  9. Fill the master cylinder reservoir.
  10. Important: It is important that new braking surfaces be broken in or burnished after brake pads are installed and/or after rotors are refinished. Avoid overheating the brakes.

  11. Make 20 stops from 48 km/h (30 mph) using medium to firm brake pedal pressure to burnish the brake rotors.