This is a general overview, and specifics may vary slightly depending on the year of your Cavalier. Always consult a repair manual specific to your vehicle's year and model for detailed instructions and diagrams.
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 and sockets: Appropriate sizes for your Cavalier's lug nuts and caliper bolts.
* C-clamp or caliper compression tool: To compress the caliper piston. This is crucial.
* Wrench or pliers (potentially): Depending on the caliper design, you might need these to hold or adjust parts.
* Brake cleaner: To clean the caliper and rotor surfaces.
* New brake pads: Make sure you get the correct pads for your Cavalier's year and model.
* Gloves: To keep your hands clean.
* Repair Manual: Specific to your year and model Cavalier. This is highly recommended.
Steps (General Overview):
1. Safety First: Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and chock the wheels.
2. Lift and Secure: Use the jack to lift the car and securely place it on jack stands. Always work with the car safely supported.
3. Remove the Wheel: Remove the lug nuts and carefully take off the wheel.
4. Expose the Caliper: You should now see the brake caliper and rotor.
5. Compress the Caliper Piston: This is the most important step. Use the C-clamp or caliper compression tool to push the piston back into the caliper. This creates space for the new, thicker brake pads. Be careful not to damage the piston seal.
6. Remove the Old Pads: Typically, there are retaining pins or clips holding the brake pads in place. Remove these and take out the old pads.
7. Clean: Clean the caliper and rotor surfaces with brake cleaner.
8. Install the New Pads: Carefully install the new brake pads into their slots. Make sure they slide freely.
9. Reassemble: Reinstall the retaining pins or clips.
10. Reinstall the Wheel: Put the wheel back on and tighten the lug nuts.
11. Lower the Car: Carefully lower the car using the jack.
12. Tighten Lug Nuts: Final tighten the lug nuts.
13. Test the Brakes: Crucially, after installing the new pads, pump the brake pedal several times to build pressure and ensure the pads are making contact with the rotor. Then, carefully test the brakes in a safe, open area at low speeds, checking for responsiveness and any unusual noises.
Important Considerations:
* Rotor Inspection: Inspect the brake rotors for wear and tear. They may need to be resurfaced or replaced.
* Caliper Inspection: Inspect the calipers for leaks, sticking pistons, or other problems.
* Bleeding Brakes (Possibly): In some cases, you might need to bleed the brakes after replacing the pads. This is usually not necessary unless you've worked on the hydraulic system. Again, consult your repair manual.
This is a simplified explanation. Refer to a repair manual specific to your Chevy Cavalier's year and model for detailed instructions and safety precautions. Improper brake installation can lead to serious injury or death. If you are not comfortable performing this task, take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic.
