Tools You'll Likely Need:
* Wheel chocks: Essential for safety.
* Jack and jack stands: Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
* Lug wrench: To remove the wheels.
* Screwdrivers (Phillips and flathead): For various fasteners.
* C-clamp or brake spring pliers: To compress the return springs. These tools are crucial and specifically designed for this job; improvising can damage parts.
* Hammer (small): Possibly needed to tap things loose.
* Wrench(es): Sizes will vary depending on your specific Aveo, check your owner's manual or a repair manual. You might need wrenches to remove the backing plate.
* Brake cleaner: To clean parts before reassembly.
* New brake shoes and hardware: Get the correct parts for your vehicle.
* Grease (brake compatible): For lubrication of certain parts.
* Repair Manual: Highly recommended. A Chilton's or Haynes manual will give you detailed, illustrated instructions specific to your year and model.
General Steps (Consult your repair manual for precise details and torque specifications):
1. Safety First: Chock the front wheels and securely lift the rear of the vehicle using a jack and jack stands.
2. Remove the Wheel: Remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel.
3. Expose the Drum: You'll see the brake drum. Sometimes it's simply held on by friction, and you can gently tap it off with a rubber mallet. Other times there may be a few retaining bolts or clips. Be careful not to damage the drum.
4. Inspect the Components: Once the drum is off, you'll see the brake shoes, springs, adjusters, and other hardware. Take photos or make sketches to help with reassembly.
5. Remove the Brake Shoes: The brake shoes are held in place by various springs and possibly a retaining clip or star wheel adjuster. This is where the C-clamp or brake spring pliers are crucial. Carefully compress the springs to release the shoes. You might need to loosen or adjust the star wheel to release the shoes.
6. Replace the Shoes and Hardware: Install the new brake shoes, making sure they're properly seated and the springs and adjuster are correctly installed. Refer to your repair manual; it's important to get the springs and other components in their correct locations.
7. Reinstall the Drum: Carefully place the drum back onto the axle.
8. Reassemble the Wheel and Lug Nuts: Tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern. Don't overtighten.
9. Lower the Vehicle: Carefully lower the vehicle from the jack stands.
10. Check Your Work: Pump the brake pedal several times to ensure the brakes are working correctly. Test drive the vehicle, carefully and cautiously, and be sure the brake pedal feels firm and the braking is responsive. If anything feels wrong, stop immediately and re-check your work. Have your brakes inspected by a professional if you're not completely confident.
Important Considerations:
* Brake Adjustment: The rear drum brakes often have an automatic adjuster, but it might need to be adjusted after the shoes are replaced. Your repair manual will explain how to do this correctly.
* Brake Bleeding: You may need to bleed the brakes after replacing the shoes, though it's less likely than with disc brakes. This removes air from the brake lines. Again, consult your repair manual.
Again, I strongly recommend using a repair manual for your specific 2004 Chevy Aveo. This response is for general guidance only and should not be taken as a complete and safe guide for replacing your brakes. Improper brake work can be extremely dangerous. If you are not comfortable doing this yourself, take your car to a qualified mechanic.
