Tools You'll Need:
* Jack and Jack Stands: Absolutely 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: With metric sockets (likely 13mm, 14mm, and 15mm, but check your car's specifications).
* C-Clamp or Brake Caliper Compressor Tool: To compress the caliper piston.
* Pliers: Needle-nose pliers might be helpful.
* Wrench for Bleeder Screw: Usually a 8mm or 10mm (check your car).
* Brake Cleaner: To clean brake parts.
* New Brake Pads: Make sure you get the correct pads for your Cavalier.
* New Rotors (if necessary): Inspect the rotors for scoring or excessive wear. Replace if necessary.
* Gloves: To keep your hands clean.
* Safety Glasses: To protect your eyes.
* Torque Wrench (highly recommended): For proper tightening of caliper bolts and lug nuts.
Steps:
1. Safety First: Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and chock the wheels opposite the one you're working on. Use the jack to lift the car and securely place it on jack stands.
2. Remove the Wheel: Use the lug wrench to loosen the lug nuts before jacking up the car. Remove the wheel completely once the car is safely supported by the jack stands.
3. Inspect the Brake Pads and Rotors: Check the thickness of the brake pads. Replace if they're worn below the minimum thickness (check your owner's manual or the pads themselves). Inspect the rotors for scoring, cracks, or excessive wear. If damaged, they need replacement.
4. Compress the Caliper Piston: Use the C-clamp or caliper compressor tool to push the caliper piston back into the caliper housing. This creates space for the new, thicker brake pads. You may need to turn the piston as you compress it.
5. Remove the Brake Pads: Depending on your Cavalier's model, there may be pins or clips holding the brake pads in place. Carefully remove these and take out the old brake pads.
6. Clean the Caliper and Mounting Bracket: Use brake cleaner to thoroughly clean the caliper, bracket, and any surrounding surfaces.
7. Install the New Brake Pads: Insert the new brake pads into the caliper.
8. Reinstall the Caliper: Make sure everything is aligned correctly and reattach the caliper to the bracket using the caliper bolts. Tighten the bolts to the manufacturer's specified torque.
9. Reinstall the Wheel: Put the wheel back on and tighten the lug nuts. Don't overtighten at this stage, just snug them.
10. Lower the Car: Carefully lower the car to the ground using the jack.
11. Tighten Lug Nuts: Once the car is on the ground, tighten the lug nuts to the proper torque specification using a torque wrench.
12. Bleed the Brakes (Important): Air in the brake lines can significantly impair braking performance. You'll need a helper for this step. Consult a repair manual or online tutorial for the correct bleeding procedure for your Cavalier. This usually involves opening the bleeder valve on the caliper while someone pumps the brake pedal.
13. Repeat for the Other Wheels: Repeat steps 2-12 for the remaining wheels.
14. Test the Brakes: After bleeding the brakes, carefully test them in a safe, open area. The brake pedal should feel firm. If the pedal feels soft or spongy, there might be air in the system, or there could be another problem, requiring professional attention.
Important Considerations:
* This is a simplified guide. Consult a repair manual specific to your 2004 Chevy Cavalier for detailed instructions and torque specifications.
* Safety is paramount. Never work under a car supported only by a jack. Use jack stands.
* Brake work is dangerous if done incorrectly. If you're unsure about any step, consult a professional mechanic. Improperly installed brakes can lead to serious accidents.
* Proper bleeding is crucial. Air in the brake lines can significantly reduce braking power.
This guide provides a general overview. Referencing a repair manual specific to your vehicle is absolutely essential for safe and correct brake replacement.
