1. Safety First:
* Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and chock the front wheels.
* Wear safety glasses and gloves.
2. Preparation:
* Gather your tools: This will include a jack, jack stands, lug wrench, socket set (metric), hammer, pry bar, bearing separator (essential!), a large C-clamp (possibly), penetrating oil (like PB Blaster), a wheel bearing grease packer (if replacing the bearings), and possibly a press depending on your skill level and tools. A repair manual will give you a complete list.
* Raise and support the vehicle: Safely jack up the rear of the Cavalier and securely place it on jack stands. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
3. Remove the Wheel:
* Loosen the lug nuts before jacking up the car.
* Remove the wheel.
4. Remove the Brake Drum or Rotor:
* Drum Brakes (older models): You'll likely need to use a drum puller or a hammer and pry bar (carefully!) to remove the brake drum. Be gentle; you don't want to damage the drum. Once removed, you'll see the axle flange and the backing plate.
* Disc Brakes (newer models): Remove the caliper assembly (usually by unbolting it and hanging it out of the way with wire). Then remove the rotor (usually with bolts).
5. Remove the Axle Nut and Flange:
* Locate the axle nut: This is a large nut on the end of the axle shaft.
* Use a socket wrench and breaker bar to loosen and remove the axle nut. It will likely be very tight. Penetrating oil may be needed.
* Remove the axle flange: This usually requires removing some bolts securing it to the backing plate.
6. Remove the Wheel Bearing:
* This is the most challenging part. The bearing is usually pressed onto the axle. You'll need a bearing separator to remove it. There are different types of separators; a good repair manual will show you how to use one appropriately. A slide hammer bearing puller is very helpful. Applying excessive force can damage the axle.
* Some models might require removing the entire axle shaft assembly, which will greatly increase the complexity of the job.
7. Installation (If Replacing):
* Clean all surfaces thoroughly.
* Pack the new bearing with grease.
* Install the new bearing using a bearing installer (a press is ideal).
* Reverse the removal process to reassemble everything.
Important Considerations:
* This is a complex procedure. If you're not comfortable with automotive repair, take your Cavalier to a qualified mechanic. Improper installation can lead to serious safety hazards.
* Your Cavalier's year and model will significantly impact the specific steps. Refer to a repair manual specific to your car. This is crucial. A Haynes or Chilton manual would be beneficial.
* Take pictures as you disassemble. This will be invaluable when reassembling.
* Torque specifications are critical. Use a torque wrench to tighten everything to the manufacturer's specifications, found in your repair manual.
Remember, safety and precision are paramount when working on your vehicle's braking system. If you are unsure about any step, seek professional help.
