Tools You'll Need:
* Jack and jack stands (SAFETY FIRST: Never work under a car supported only by a jack)
* Lug wrench
* Wheel chocks
* Socket wrench set (metric)
* Brake caliper pliers or C-clamp (to compress the caliper piston)
* Wrench to remove caliper mounting bolts
* Pliers
* Wire brush (to clean caliper mounting surfaces)
* Brake cleaner
* New brake pads
* New rotors (likely necessary, but inspect current ones first)
* Anti-seize lubricant
* Torque wrench (highly recommended)
* Safety glasses and gloves
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, and securely place it on jack stands. Never work under a car supported only by a jack.
3. Remove the Wheel: Loosen the lug nuts using the lug wrench before jacking up the car. Remove the wheel and set it aside.
4. Inspect the Brake System: Inspect the brake pads for wear. Measure the pad thickness. Replace them if they are worn down to the minimum thickness specified in your repair manual. Inspect the brake rotors for scoring, grooves, or excessive wear. If they are damaged, they must be replaced.
5. Remove the Caliper: Locate the caliper mounting bolts and remove them using the appropriate socket wrench. Carefully remove the caliper assembly; you might need to gently pry it away from the rotor. Do not let the caliper hang by the brake line; use a wire or bungee cord to support it.
6. Compress the Caliper Piston: Use brake caliper pliers or a C-clamp to compress the caliper piston. This will create space for the new, thicker brake pads. You may need to rotate the piston as you compress it. Be careful not to damage the piston seal. Some pistons turn, while others push straight in. Some fluid will likely be displaced; have a rag ready.
7. Remove the Old Brake Pads: Remove the old brake pads from the caliper. Clean the caliper and its mounting surfaces with a wire brush and brake cleaner.
8. Install the New Brake Pads: Install the new brake pads into the caliper.
9. Install the Caliper: Mount the caliper back onto the rotor and secure it with the mounting bolts. Tighten the bolts to the manufacturer's specified torque (found in your repair manual). Apply anti-seize lubricant to the caliper mounting bolts to prevent future corrosion.
10. Inspect and Install the Rotors (If Necessary): If you're replacing the rotors, clean the wheel hub thoroughly. Install the new rotors, ensuring they are properly seated.
11. Install the Wheel: Mount the wheel back onto the studs and tighten the lug nuts. Do not fully tighten the nuts yet.
12. Lower the Vehicle: Carefully lower the vehicle to the ground.
13. Tighten the Lug Nuts: Fully tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern to ensure even pressure.
14. Pump the Brakes: Get back in your vehicle and pump the brake pedal several times to push the brake pads against the rotors. Check for any leaks or unusual noises.
15. Test Drive: Carefully test drive the vehicle, checking for proper braking performance. If anything feels unusual, re-check your work.
Important Considerations:
* Bleeding the Brakes: Depending on how much work you did and how much brake fluid you displaced, you might need to bleed the brakes. This is a separate procedure involving opening bleeder valves at the calipers and pumping the brake pedal to remove air bubbles from the brake lines.
* Brake Fluid: Brake fluid is corrosive, so be careful not to spill it on painted surfaces. If you do spill brake fluid, clean it up immediately.
* Repair Manual: A repair manual specific to your 1999 Chrysler Sebring LXi is highly recommended for detailed instructions, torque specifications, and diagrams.
This guide provides a general overview. Incorrectly performing brake repairs can be extremely dangerous. If you are unsure about any step, seek professional help from a qualified mechanic. Your safety is paramount.
