Here's a general overview. This is not a substitute for a repair manual and should only be used as a guide.
Tools You'll Need:
* Jack and jack stands: Essential for safely lifting the vehicle. Never work under a car supported only by a jack.
* Wheel chocks: To prevent the car from rolling.
* Lug wrench: To remove the wheel.
* Socket wrench set (metric): You'll need various sizes depending on the caliper bolts and potentially other fasteners.
* C-clamp or caliper compressor tool: To compress the caliper piston. This is crucial.
* Wrench for caliper bracket bolts (if needed): Some designs require removing the caliper bracket.
* Brake cleaner: To clean the caliper and rotor surfaces.
* Penetrating lubricant (PB Blaster, etc.): To help loosen rusty bolts.
* Gloves: To protect your hands.
* Safety glasses: To protect your eyes.
* New brake pads: Make sure you get the correct pads for your vehicle.
Steps:
1. Safety First: Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and chock the wheels. Raise the vehicle using the jack and securely support it with jack stands.
2. Remove the Wheel: Remove the lug nuts and carefully remove the wheel.
3. Expose the Caliper: You should now see the brake caliper and rotor.
4. Compress the Caliper Piston: This is the most important step. Use a C-clamp or caliper compressor tool to push the piston back into the caliper. This creates space for the new, thicker brake pads. Be careful not to damage the piston seal. You may need to turn the piston as you compress it. Some brake fluids are corrosive, so wear gloves.
5. Remove the Old Brake Pads: There are usually retaining clips or pins holding the brake pads in place. Remove these carefully. The old pads should slide out.
6. Clean the Caliper and Rotor: Use brake cleaner to thoroughly clean the caliper surfaces and the rotor.
7. Install the New Brake Pads: Insert the new brake pads into the caliper, ensuring they slide freely.
8. Reassemble: Reinstall any retaining clips or pins.
9. Reinstall the Wheel: Carefully put the wheel back on and tighten the lug nuts. Do not fully tighten them yet.
10. Lower the Vehicle: Lower the vehicle to the ground.
11. Torque Lug Nuts: Tighten the lug nuts to the manufacturer's specified torque (found in your repair manual).
12. Pump the Brakes: Pump the brake pedal several times to ensure the pads are making contact with the rotor.
13. Test Drive: Take a short test drive to ensure the brakes are working correctly.
14. Check for Leaks: After the test drive, check for any brake fluid leaks.
Important Considerations:
* Rotor Condition: Inspect the brake rotors for wear and tear. If they're excessively worn or scored, they may need to be replaced.
* Caliper Condition: Inspect the caliper for any signs of damage or leaks.
* Brake Fluid: If you have to bleed the brakes (unlikely with just pad replacement), follow the procedure in your repair manual.
* Professional Help: If you are not comfortable performing this task yourself, take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic. Brake system failure can be dangerous.
This is a simplified guide. Refer to a repair manual specific to your 1996 Ford Probe GT for detailed instructions and torque specifications. Incorrectly installed brakes are a serious safety hazard.
