This guide provides a general overview. Specific procedures might vary slightly depending on the exact trim level and options on your Cobalt. Always consult a repair manual specific to your 2006 Chevy Cobalt for detailed instructions and diagrams. A Haynes or Chilton manual is a good investment for DIY car repairs.
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 secure the car.
* Socket wrench set: Various sizes, including those for lug nuts, caliper bolts, and brake line bleed screw.
* Wrench set: For various fasteners.
* C-clamp or brake caliper compressor: To compress the caliper piston.
* Brake cleaner: To clean parts.
* New brake pads and rotors (likely): Always replace pads in pairs (both sides of the axle). Rotors should be replaced if scored or significantly worn.
* Torque wrench: To tighten bolts to the manufacturer's specifications.
* Brake fluid: DOT 3 or DOT 4 (check your owner's manual).
* Catch basin or container: To collect old brake fluid.
* Gloves: To protect your hands.
* Safety glasses: To protect your eyes.
Steps (General Overview - Consult your repair manual for specifics):
1. Safety First: Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and use wheel chocks on the wheels that remain on the ground.
2. Lift and Secure: Use the jack to lift the car and securely place it on jack stands.
3. Remove Wheel: Remove the lug nuts and carefully remove the wheel.
4. Remove Caliper:
* Locate the caliper bolts and carefully remove them.
* Some calipers might have a slide pin that needs to be removed or lubricated.
* Carefully support the caliper to prevent it from hanging by the brake line. You can use a bungee cord or wire to secure it to something nearby.
5. Compress Caliper Piston: Use a C-clamp or caliper compressor to push the piston back into the caliper. This creates space for the new, thicker brake pads. Be careful not to damage the piston.
6. Remove Old Brake Pads: Remove the old brake pads. Inspect the rotor for scoring, wear, or damage. If necessary, replace the rotors.
7. Install New Brake Pads: Install the new brake pads, ensuring they slide smoothly into their respective slots.
8. Reinstall Caliper: Carefully reinstall the caliper and securely tighten the bolts to the manufacturer's specified torque.
9. Reinstall Wheel: Reinstall the wheel and tighten the lug nuts to the manufacturer's specified torque. *Don't overtighten!*
10. Repeat for Other Wheel: Repeat steps 2-9 for the other wheel on the same axle.
11. Bleed Brakes (Important!): After replacing the brake pads, it's crucial to bleed the brakes to remove air bubbles from the brake lines. This requires two people, one to pump the brake pedal and one to open and close the bleed valve on each caliper. Consult your repair manual for the correct bleeding procedure.
12. Lower Vehicle: Carefully lower the vehicle and remove the jack stands.
13. Test Brakes: Test the brakes carefully at low speeds before driving normally. If anything feels unusual, immediately take your car to a mechanic.
Important Considerations:
* Rotor Replacement: If the rotors are scored, warped, or excessively worn, they *must* be replaced. Using worn rotors with new pads is unsafe.
* Brake Fluid: Brake fluid is hygroscopic (absorbs moisture), which can affect braking performance. If you're working on the system, consider replacing the fluid.
* Torque Specifications: Use a torque wrench and adhere to the manufacturer's specifications for tightening all bolts. Improper torque can lead to loose parts and potentially dangerous failures.
This is a simplified guide. Always refer to a repair manual specific to your 2006 Chevy Cobalt for detailed instructions and safety precautions. Improper brake repair can lead to serious injury or death. If you have any doubt, seek professional help.
