Tools You'll Need:
* Jack and Jack Stands: Essential for safety. Never work under a car supported only by a jack.
* Lug Wrench: To remove the wheels.
* Wheel Chocks: To prevent the car from rolling.
* Socket Wrench Set: Various sizes, likely including 13mm, 14mm, and possibly others.
* Wrench Set: May be needed for certain bolts.
* C-Clamp or Brake Caliper Compression Tool: To compress the brake caliper piston.
* Brake Cleaner: To clean brake components.
* New Brake Pads: Make sure to get the correct pads for your Sunfire.
* New Brake Rotors (optional): Inspect the rotors for wear and scoring. If they're worn or damaged, replace them.
* Penetrating Oil (like PB Blaster): Can help loosen stubborn bolts.
* Gloves: To protect your hands.
* Safety Glasses: To protect your eyes.
Procedure:
1. Safety First: Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and use wheel chocks on the rear wheels.
2. Raise and Secure the Vehicle: Use the jack to lift the front of the car, placing jack stands securely under the frame near the jacking points (consult your owner's manual for jacking points).
3. Remove the Wheels: Unscrew the lug nuts using the lug wrench. Keep them together in a safe place. Remove the wheels.
4. Remove the Caliper:
* Use a socket wrench to remove the caliper bolts holding the caliper to the caliper bracket. These bolts are usually 13mm or 14mm. Sometimes they're difficult to remove; penetrating oil may help.
* Carefully remove the caliper and hang it using a wire or bungee cord to keep it from dangling and stretching the brake hose.
5. Compress the Caliper Piston: Use a C-clamp or brake caliper compression tool to push the caliper piston back into the caliper bore. This creates space for the new, thicker brake pads. Be careful not to damage the piston or boot. You may need to turn the piston as you compress it.
6. Remove the Old Brake Pads: The old pads should simply slide out of the caliper bracket. Inspect the bracket for wear or damage.
7. Install the New Brake Pads: Slide the new brake pads into the caliper bracket, ensuring they're seated correctly.
8. Install the Caliper: Mount the caliper back onto the caliper bracket, and tighten the caliper bolts to the manufacturer's specified torque.
9. (Optional) Install New Brake Rotors: If replacing the rotors, remove the old rotors (usually just bolts holding them to the hub). Clean the hub thoroughly before installing the new rotors. Torque the rotor bolts to specification.
10. Reinstall the Wheels: Place the wheels back on and tighten the lug nuts. Do not overtighten.
11. Lower the Vehicle: Carefully lower the vehicle using the jack. Once the wheels are on the ground, fully tighten the lug nuts.
12. Pump the Brakes: Get back in the car and pump the brake pedal several times to build up pressure in the brake system. Check for leaks.
13. Test Drive: Take a short test drive, carefully testing the brakes. If you feel anything unusual, have the brakes inspected by a mechanic.
Important Considerations:
* Bleeding the Brakes: You might not need to bleed the brakes if only replacing the pads, but it's a good idea to check for leaks and to bleed them if there's any concern about air in the lines. Bleeding the brakes is a separate procedure that requires additional tools and knowledge.
* Brake Fluid: Check the brake fluid level in the master cylinder before and after the brake job. Add fluid if needed, using the correct type of brake fluid for your vehicle.
* Rotor Inspection: Always inspect the rotors for scoring, excessive wear, or cracks. Replace them if necessary. Uneven wear may indicate other brake system issues.
This is a general guide. Refer to your vehicle's repair manual for specific instructions and torque specifications. If you're not comfortable with any step, seek professional help. Improperly installed brakes are dangerous.
