Here's a general overview. Specific steps might vary slightly depending on your exact Intrigue model and trim. Always consult your owner's manual for specifics.
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 nuts.
* Socket wrench set: With the appropriate sizes for your lug nuts and caliper bolts.
* C-clamp or caliper compression tool: To compress the brake caliper piston. This is crucial to allow the new rotor to fit.
* Brake cleaner: To clean the caliper and rotor surfaces.
* Wrench or socket to remove caliper bracket bolts (if necessary). Some Intrigues may require removing the caliper bracket entirely, others may just allow caliper removal.
* Torque wrench: To tighten bolts to the manufacturer's specified torque. This prevents damage and ensures safety. (Look up the torque specs for your vehicle in your owner's manual or a repair manual.)
* New brake rotors: Make sure you get the correct size and type for your Intrigue.
* Gloves: To keep your hands clean.
* Safety glasses: To protect your eyes from debris.
Procedure:
1. Safety First: Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and chock the wheels.
2. Lift and Support: Use the jack to lift the vehicle and securely place it on jack stands.
3. Remove Wheel: Remove the lug nuts and carefully take off the wheel.
4. Compress the Caliper Piston: Using the C-clamp or caliper compression tool, carefully compress the brake caliper piston. This will give you enough space to remove the old rotor. Be careful not to damage the piston or the dust boot.
5. Remove the Caliper: In some cases, you may need to remove the caliper bracket bolts and remove the entire caliper assembly. In others, the caliper can be swung away from the rotor. Support the caliper with a wire or bungee cord so it doesn't hang by the brake line.
6. Remove the Rotor: The old rotor should now slide off. It might be a bit tight. If necessary, you can gently tap it with a rubber mallet to loosen it.
7. Clean: Thoroughly clean the wheel hub and caliper mounting surface with brake cleaner.
8. Install New Rotor: Slide the new rotor onto the wheel studs.
9. Reinstall Caliper: Carefully reinstall the caliper and bracket (if removed). Make sure the caliper slides freely. Be sure to use fresh caliper slide pins if needed. Your owner's manual or a repair manual will usually explain the process.
10. Reinstall Wheel: Install the wheel and tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern (opposite nuts first), then tighten fully.
11. Lower Vehicle: Carefully lower the vehicle from the jack stands.
12. Torque Lug Nuts: Use a torque wrench to tighten the lug nuts to the specified torque.
13. Test Brakes: Before driving, carefully test the brakes to ensure they're functioning correctly. A soft pedal could indicate air in the lines. You may need to bleed the brakes if this is the case. This is a more advanced procedure.
Important Considerations:
* Brake Pads: Inspect your brake pads while you're at it. If they're worn, replace them at the same time.
* Wheel Bearings: While you have the wheel off, check the wheel bearings for play or noise.
* ABS Sensors: Be mindful of the ABS sensor; if your model has one, take care not to damage it during rotor removal/installation.
This is a general guide, and specific procedures may vary. Consult a repair manual specific to your 1999 Oldsmobile Intrigue for detailed instructions and torque specifications. If you're not comfortable with any step, seek professional help. Improper brake repair can be very dangerous.
