GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only
Makes 🢒 Pontiac 🢒 2001 🢒 Grand Prix 🢒 Brakes 🢒 Disc Brakes 🢒 Rear Disc Brake Pads Replacement

Removal Procedure
  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, then no brake fluid needs to be removed from the reservoir before proceeding. If the brake fluid level is higher than midway between the maximum-full point and the minimum allowable level, then remove brake fluid to the midway point before proceeding.
  3. Raise and suitably support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle in General Information.
  4. Remove the rear tire and the wheel assembly. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation in Tires and Wheels.
  5. Install a hand tightened lug nut to retain the rotor to the hub.

    6. Object Number: 176947 Size: SH
  6. Compress the caliper piston enough for clearance. Use a C-clamp (3).

    7. Object Number: 176946 Size: SH
  7. Remove the upper caliper bolt (2).

    8. Notice: Use care to avoid damaging pin boot when rotating caliper.

  8. Pivot the caliper down in order to access the pads. Do not remove the caliper.

    9. Object Number: 176945 Size: SH
  9. Remove the brake pads (9,10) from the caliper bracket.
  10. Remove the 2 pad clips (11) from the caliper bracket.
  11. Inspect the caliper mounting hardware for the following conditions:
    12. • Cuts
    • Tears
    • Deterioration
    •  Replace any damaged hardware. Refer to Rear Disc Brake Mounting and Hardware Inspection .
  12. Inspect the caliper dust boot (8) for the following conditions:
    13. • Cuts
    • Tears
    • Deterioration
    •  Replace any damaged caliper dust boot. Refer to Brake Caliper Inspection .
  13. Inspect the caliper bolts for corrosion or damage. Do not attempt to polish away the corrosion. Use new components when installing the caliper.

Installation Procedure

    Object Number: 176945 Size: SH
  1. Bottom the piston (7) into the caliper bore (2).

    2. Use a C-clamp before installing new brake pads in order to compress the piston. Use an old brake pad or wooden block across the face of the piston. Do not damage the piston or the caliper boot.

  2. Install the 2 retainers (11) to the caliper bracket (12).

    3. Important: The wear sensor is on the outside pad. The sensor is positioned at the trailing edge (downward) of the pad during forward wheel rotation.

  3. Install the pads (9, 10) to the caliper bracket (12).

    4. Object Number: 176946 Size: SH

    Notice: Use care to avoid damaging pin boot when rotating caliper.

  4. Swing the caliper (3) upward in position around the pads.
  5. Lubricate the bolt and the bolt boot. Use silicone grease.

    6. Notice: Use the correct fastener in the correct location. Replacement fasteners must be the correct part number for that application. Fasteners requiring replacement or fasteners requiring the use of thread locking compound or sealant are identified in the service procedure. Do not use paints, lubricants, or corrosion inhibitors on fasteners or fastener joint surfaces unless specified. These coatings affect fastener torque and joint clamping force and may damage the fastener. Use the correct tightening sequence and specifications when installing fasteners in order to avoid damage to parts and systems.

  6. Install the upper caliper bolt (2).

    7. Tighten
    Tighten the caliper bolt to 44 N·m (32 lb ft).

  7. Remove the 2 wheel lug nuts retaining the rotor to the hub.
  8. Install the rear tire and the wheel assembly. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation in Tires and Wheels. Align the previous marks on the wheel, hub and bearing.
  9. Lower the vehicle.
  10. With the engine OFF, gradually apply the brake pedal to approximately 2/3 of its travel distance.
  11. Slowly release the brake pedal.
  12. Wait 15 seconds, then repeat steps 10 and 11 until a firm brake pedal is obtained. This will properly seat the brake caliper pistons and brake pads.
  13. Fill the brake master cylinder reservoir to the proper level. Refer to Master Cylinder Reservoir Filling in Hydraulic Brakes.
  14. Burnish the pads and rotors. Refer to Brake Pad and Rotor Burnishing .