This is a general overview. Always consult your vehicle's repair manual for specific torque specifications and procedures. These vary slightly depending on trim level and options.
Tools You'll Need:
* Jack and Jack Stands: Essential for safety. Never work under a car supported only by a jack.
* Wheel Chocks: To prevent the car from rolling.
* Lug Wrench: To remove the wheels.
* Wrench set (metric): Various sizes will be needed for caliper bolts, brake line fittings, etc.
* Socket set (metric) with ratchet: Similar to wrenches, but often easier to use.
* C-clamp or caliper compressor tool: To compress the caliper piston.
* Pliers: For various tasks, like removing brake clips.
* Brake cleaner: Crucial for cleaning brake parts.
* Penetrating oil (like PB Blaster): Helps loosen rusted bolts.
* Torque wrench: To tighten bolts to the correct specification – prevents damage and ensures safety.
* Safety glasses: Protect your eyes from flying debris.
* Gloves: Keep your hands clean.
* New brake pads and rotors (possibly): Buy quality parts from a reputable supplier. Inspect the rotors for scoring or excessive wear; you may need to replace them as well.
Steps:
1. Safety First: Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and chock the wheels. Jack up the car securely and place it on jack stands.
2. Remove the Wheel: Use the lug wrench to remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel.
3. Inspect the Brakes: Examine the brake pads for wear. Measure the pad thickness; replace if they're below the minimum thickness specified in your repair manual. Inspect the rotors for scoring, grooves, or excessive wear. If they're damaged, they'll need to be replaced.
4. Remove the Caliper: Locate the caliper bolts (usually two) and carefully remove them. Sometimes they can be stubborn due to rust. Use penetrating oil if needed. Once the bolts are removed, carefully support the caliper with a bungee cord or wire to prevent it from hanging by the brake line. *Do not let the brake line hang or stretch.*
5. Compress the Caliper Piston: Use a C-clamp or caliper compressor tool to slowly compress the caliper piston. This creates space for the new, thicker brake pads. Be careful not to damage the piston.
6. Remove the Old Brake Pads: The old pads should now be easily removable. Take note of how they're oriented (some have shims).
7. Install the New Brake Pads: Install the new pads, ensuring they're properly seated. If there are wear sensors, install them as well.
8. Reinstall the Caliper: Carefully put the caliper back in place and tighten the bolts to the correct torque specification (found in your repair manual).
9. Reinstall the Wheel: Tighten the lug nuts firmly, but don't fully tighten them yet.
10. Repeat for the Other Wheel: Repeat steps 2-9 for the other wheel on the same axle.
11. Lower the Car: Carefully lower the car to the ground.
12. Final Tightening: Tighten the lug nuts to the proper torque specification.
13. Pump the Brakes: Before driving, firmly pump the brake pedal several times to engage the new pads. Check for leaks around the caliper.
14. Test Drive: Take a short, cautious test drive to ensure the brakes are working properly.
Important Notes:
* Bleeding the Brakes: In some cases, bleeding the brakes may be necessary after replacing the pads. This removes air from the brake lines. If you're unsure, consult a repair manual or professional.
* Rotor Replacement: If your rotors are damaged, you'll need to remove them before installing the new pads. This involves removing additional bolts and possibly using a slide hammer.
* Rear Brakes: The rear brakes on a Grand Am might be drum brakes or disc brakes. The procedure for replacing drum brakes is more involved.
* ABS: If your Grand Am has anti-lock brakes (ABS), there are additional considerations you should be aware of; Consult a repair manual for your specific vehicle.
This is a simplified overview. Refer to a repair manual specific to your 2002 Pontiac Grand Am for detailed instructions and safety precautions. Improper brake installation can lead to dangerous situations. If you're uncomfortable with any aspect of this process, take your car to a qualified mechanic.
