Here's a general overview. This is NOT a complete, step-by-step guide and should not be used as a sole source for performing this repair. Always consult a repair manual specific to your 2006 Pontiac Montana SV6 for detailed instructions, torque specifications, and safety precautions.
Tools You'll Need:
* Jack and jack stands: Essential for safely lifting the vehicle. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
* Lug wrench: To remove the wheels.
* Wheel chocks: To prevent the vehicle from rolling.
* Socket wrench set: With the appropriate sizes for your lug nuts, caliper bolts, and rotor retaining hardware (if applicable).
* Wrench set: May be needed for caliper bracket bolts or other fasteners.
* C-clamp or brake caliper compression tool: To compress the brake caliper piston.
* Brake cleaner: To clean brake components.
* New brake pads and rotors: Ensure you get the correct parts for your vehicle.
* Gloves and safety glasses: Protect yourself from grease, dirt, and potential injury.
* Torque wrench: Crucial for tightening bolts to the manufacturer's specifications.
* Penetrating lubricant (PB Blaster or similar): To help loosen rusted or stuck bolts.
General Steps (Consult your repair manual for precise details):
1. Safety First: Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and use wheel chocks.
2. Lift and Secure: Safely lift the vehicle using the jack and securely position it on jack stands.
3. Remove the Wheel: Remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel.
4. Remove the Caliper:
* Locate the caliper bolts: These usually are on the back of the caliper.
* Compress the caliper piston: Use a C-clamp or compression tool to push the piston back into the caliper. This creates space for the new, thicker pads. Be careful not to damage the piston or seals.
* Remove the caliper bolts and carefully remove the caliper: You may need to support the caliper with a wire or bungee cord to keep it from hanging by the brake line.
5. Remove the Brake Pads: The old brake pads should slide out. Inspect the caliper slide pins for smoothness and lubrication; replace or clean and lubricate as needed.
6. Remove the Rotor: Some rotors are held on by a single bolt. Others might just slide off. Your repair manual will have specifics for your vehicle.
7. Install the New Rotor: Make sure it's clean and properly seated.
8. Install the New Brake Pads: Insert the new pads into the caliper.
9. Reinstall the Caliper: Attach the caliper to the bracket.
10. Reinstall the Wheel: Torque the lug nuts to the manufacturer's specifications.
11. Lower the Vehicle: Carefully lower the vehicle.
12. Pump the Brakes: After reinstalling everything, pump the brake pedal several times to engage the new pads and check for leaks.
13. Test Drive: Take a short test drive to check for proper braking performance. If anything feels off, have it inspected by a mechanic immediately.
Important Considerations:
* Bleeding the Brakes: You may need to bleed the brakes after this procedure, especially if you had to open the brake lines. This is a separate process.
* Caliper Slides: Inspect and lubricate the caliper slide pins. Sticky caliper slides can cause uneven brake wear.
* Anti-rattle clips: Make sure the anti-rattle clips are properly installed on the back of the brake pads.
* Rotor Thickness: Check your new rotors' thickness against the minimum thickness specified in your repair manual. If they are too thin, they will need to be replaced.
* Brake Fluid: Check and top up the brake fluid level in the master cylinder as needed.
This information is for general guidance only. Always consult a repair manual specific to your 2006 Pontiac Montana SV6 before attempting this repair. Failure to follow proper procedures can lead to brake failure and serious injury. If you are not comfortable performing this repair, take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic.
