The process generally involves these steps, but specifics will vary depending on your vehicle's year and whether you're replacing just the pads, rotors, calipers, or a complete braking system:
1. Safety First:
* Jack up the vehicle securely: Use jack stands, never rely solely on a jack. Place the stands on the frame, not the suspension components.
* Chock the wheels: This prevents the vehicle from rolling.
* Disconnect the battery's negative terminal: This prevents accidental short circuits.
2. Removing the Old Brakes:
* Wheel removal: Remove the wheel and tire assembly.
* Caliper removal: This often involves removing caliper mounting bolts and potentially disconnecting brake lines. Be prepared for brake fluid spillage; have rags and a container ready.
* Rotor removal: This might involve removing caliper mounting bolts or other retaining hardware. Sometimes the rotor slides off, other times it requires more force (use a slide hammer if needed).
* Brake pad removal: Remove the old brake pads, noting their orientation and position.
3. Installing the New Brakes:
* Rotor installation: Install the new rotors, ensuring they are properly seated.
* Caliper installation: Install the new calipers (if replacing) and firmly tighten the mounting bolts to the specified torque.
* Brake pad installation: Install the new brake pads, ensuring they are correctly positioned and seated.
* Brake line connection: Reconnect the brake lines carefully, avoiding leaks.
* Bleed the brakes: This is crucial to remove air from the brake lines. This usually requires two people and a wrench. You'll open bleeder valves on each caliper while someone pumps the brake pedal. Refer to your repair manual for the correct bleeding sequence.
4. Reassembly:
* Replace the wheels: Tighten the lug nuts to the manufacturer's specified torque.
* Lower the vehicle: Carefully lower the vehicle from the jack stands.
* Test the brakes: Before driving, test the brakes thoroughly in a safe, open area. If the brakes feel spongy or ineffective, you likely have air in the lines and need to re-bleed the system.
Tools You'll Likely Need:
* Jack and jack stands
* Wheel chocks
* Socket wrench set (metric)
* Wrenches
* Brake caliper tool (possibly)
* C-clamp (possibly)
* Brake fluid
* Bleeder wrench
* Rags
* Container for brake fluid
* Repair manual specific to your vehicle
Disclaimer: This information is for general guidance only. Incorrect brake installation can be extremely dangerous. If you lack the necessary experience or tools, take your Lumina APV to a qualified mechanic. The cost of professional brake service is far less than the cost of a serious accident.
