Tools You'll Need:
* Jack and jack stands: Essential for safety. 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 and sockets: You'll need sockets to remove caliper bolts and possibly the caliper mounting bracket bolts. The sizes will vary, so check your owner's manual or a repair manual.
* C-clamp or brake caliper compression tool: To compress the caliper piston.
* Wrench for caliper mounting bolts (if needed): This is often a different size than the caliper bolts.
* Pliers or a wire brush: To clean caliper surfaces.
* Brake cleaner: To clean brake parts.
* New brake pads: Make sure you get the correct pads for your vehicle.
* Penetrating oil (like PB Blaster): Can help loosen rusted bolts.
* Gloves: Protect your hands.
* Safety glasses: Protect your eyes.
* Torque wrench (recommended): To tighten bolts to the manufacturer's specifications.
Procedure:
1. Safety First: Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake firmly, and chock the rear wheels. Jack up the front of the car and securely support it on jack stands.
2. Remove the Wheel: Remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel.
3. Expose the Caliper: You'll now see the brake caliper clamped onto the rotor.
4. Compress the Caliper Piston: Using a C-clamp or a brake caliper compression tool, carefully compress the piston back into the caliper. This creates space for the new, thicker brake pads. Important: Go slowly and steadily to avoid damaging the piston or the brake fluid system. You may need to open the bleeder valve slightly to allow air in and make compression easier; if you do so, close it securely once finished.
5. Remove the Caliper: Locate the bolts holding the caliper to the caliper bracket (or directly to the knuckle, depending on the model). Use the appropriate socket and wrench to remove these bolts. Carefully remove the caliper and hang it from the suspension using some wire or a bungee cord to prevent the brake line from being stressed.
6. Remove Old Brake Pads: The old brake pads should slide out from between the caliper and the rotor.
7. Clean the Caliper and Bracket: Clean any debris or rust from the caliper bracket and caliper piston using brake cleaner and a wire brush.
8. Install New Brake Pads: Insert the new brake pads into the caliper.
9. Reinstall the Caliper: Carefully reinstall the caliper onto the bracket, making sure the pads are correctly seated. Reattach the caliper bolts and tighten them to the manufacturer's specified torque (check your owner's manual or a repair manual).
10. Reinstall the Wheel: Put the wheel back on and tighten the lug nuts. Don't fully tighten them yet.
11. Lower the Vehicle: Carefully lower the vehicle to the ground.
12. Tighten Lug Nuts: Tighten the lug nuts to the manufacturer's specified torque.
13. Test the Brakes: Before driving, pump the brake pedal several times to ensure proper engagement. Then, carefully test the brakes at low speed in a safe area to ensure they are functioning correctly.
14. Check Brake Fluid Level: Check and top up brake fluid if needed.
Important Considerations:
* Brake Fluid: If you opened the bleeder valve, you may need to bleed the brakes to remove any air introduced into the system.
* Rotor Condition: Inspect the brake rotors for wear and tear. If they're excessively worn or damaged, they should be replaced.
* Repair Manual: A repair manual specific to your 1995 Oldsmobile Cutlass Ciera will provide detailed instructions and torque specifications. This is highly recommended.
This is a general guide, and variations may exist depending on your specific vehicle. Always refer to a repair manual for detailed instructions and safety precautions. If you are not comfortable with this repair, please take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic. Improper brake repair can be extremely dangerous.
