Tools You'll Need:
* Jack and jack stands: Essential for safely lifting the car. 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: You'll need various sizes, likely including metric. Consult your repair manual for specific sizes.
* C-clamp or brake caliper compressor tool: To compress the caliper piston. This is crucial.
* Wrench or socket for caliper mounting bolts: Again, check your repair manual.
* Penetrating oil (PB Blaster or similar): To help loosen rusted bolts.
* New brake pads: Make sure you get the correct pads for your 1994 Buick Park Avenue. Check your owner's manual or a parts store for the correct part number.
* Gloves: To keep your hands clean.
* Safety glasses: To protect your eyes from flying debris.
* Repair manual (highly recommended): A Chilton's or Haynes manual for your specific year and model will be incredibly helpful. It will show you exactly where everything is and the correct procedure.
Procedure:
1. Safety First: Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and chock the rear wheels. Wear safety glasses and gloves.
2. Lift and Secure: Use the jack to lift the front of the car, placing jack stands securely under the frame near the jacking points (consult your repair manual for locations). Lower the car onto the jack stands.
3. Remove Wheel: Remove the lug nuts and carefully remove the wheel.
4. Expose the Caliper: You'll now see the brake caliper clamping onto the rotor.
5. Compress the Caliper Piston: This is where the C-clamp or caliper compressor tool is essential. You need to push the piston back into the caliper to make room for the new, thicker brake pads. Do this slowly and carefully. Some pistons rotate as you push them in; others don't. If it rotates, turn it slightly while pushing. Be careful not to damage the piston boot.
6. Remove the Brake Pads: There are usually two pins or bolts holding the caliper bracket to the caliper. Remove these pins/bolts (penetrating oil might be helpful if they're stuck). Then carefully remove the old brake pads. Take note of how they're oriented; it's generally a good idea to replace them in the same position.
7. Clean: Clean the caliper, caliper bracket, and rotor surface with a brake cleaner. This removes any debris that could interfere with brake function.
8. Install New Pads: Insert the new brake pads into their respective slots within the caliper bracket. Make sure they're seated correctly.
9. Reassemble: Reinstall the caliper bracket bolts or pins, ensuring they're tight.
10. Reinstall Wheel: Put the wheel back on and tighten the lug nuts. Don't fully tighten them yet.
11. Lower Car: Carefully lower the car from the jack stands.
12. Tighten Lug Nuts: Tighten the lug nuts fully in a star pattern.
13. Repeat: Repeat steps 2-12 for the other front wheel.
14. Pump Brakes: Get back in the car, and pump the brake pedal several times to ensure the brakes are engaging properly.
15. Test Drive: Take a short test drive to verify that the brakes are working correctly. Be cautious at first.
Important Considerations:
* Rotor Condition: Inspect your brake rotors for excessive wear or scoring. If they're severely worn or damaged, they'll need to be replaced or resurfaced.
* Brake Fluid: While not directly part of this procedure, you may want to check your brake fluid level.
* Caliper Condition: Inspect the caliper for leaks or damage. A faulty caliper may need to be replaced.
* Repair Manual: A repair manual is invaluable for detailed diagrams and instructions specific to your vehicle.
This is a general guide. Always consult a repair manual for your specific vehicle model before attempting this repair. If you're unsure about any step, seek professional help. Brake failure can have serious consequences.
