This guide provides a general overview; specifics may vary slightly depending on the exact brake system configuration of your vehicle. Always consult your vehicle's repair manual for precise instructions and diagrams.
Tools You'll Need:
* Jack and jack stands: Essential for safety. Never work under a car supported only by a jack.
* Wheel chocks: To secure the other wheels.
* Lug wrench: To remove the wheels.
* Sockets and wrenches: Various sizes will be needed, including those for caliper bolts, brake line fittings (if replacing lines), and possibly a wrench for the parking brake cable.
* C-clamp or caliper compression tool: To compress the caliper piston.
* Brake cleaner: To thoroughly clean brake parts.
* New brake pads and rotors (or drums, if your Regency has rear drum brakes): Ensure you get the correct parts for your vehicle's model.
* Torque wrench: Crucial for tightening bolts to the manufacturer's specifications.
* Gloves: To protect your hands from grease and dirt.
* Safety glasses: To protect your eyes from flying debris.
* Penetrating lubricant (like PB Blaster): Can help loosen rusted bolts.
Steps (General Outline - Refer to Your Repair Manual for Specifics):
1. Safety First:
* Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and chock the wheels.
* Use the jack to lift the vehicle and securely place it on jack stands.
2. Remove the Wheel:
* Loosen the lug nuts slightly before lifting the car.
* Remove the wheel.
3. Inspect the Brake System:
* Visually inspect the brake pads, rotors (or drums), caliper, and brake lines for wear, damage, or leaks.
4. Replace the Brake Pads (Disc Brakes - Front and Possibly Rear):
* Compress the caliper piston: Use a C-clamp or caliper compression tool to push the piston back into the caliper. This creates space for the new, thicker pads.
* Remove the caliper: Carefully remove the caliper bolts and support the caliper with a wire or bungee cord to prevent it from hanging by the brake line.
* Remove the old brake pads: They should slide out relatively easily.
* Install the new brake pads: Carefully insert the new pads into the caliper.
* Reinstall the caliper: Attach the caliper to the bracket and tighten the bolts to the correct torque specification.
5. Replace the Rotors (If Necessary - Disc Brakes):
* Remove the caliper and pads (if you haven't already).
* Remove the rotor. This may require removing some retaining screws or bolts, depending on your model.
* Install the new rotor.
6. Replace the Brake Shoes and Drums (If Applicable - Rear Drum Brakes):
* This process is more involved than disc brake replacement. It involves removing the drum, adjusting the wheel cylinders, and replacing the brake shoes. This is best done with a repair manual as a guide.
7. Bleed the Brakes (If Necessary):
* If you've worked on the brake lines or replaced any components, you'll need to bleed the brakes to remove air bubbles from the system. This usually requires two people.
8. Reassemble:
* Reinstall the wheel and tighten the lug nuts to the correct torque specification.
* Lower the vehicle.
* Repeat for the other wheel.
9. Test the Brakes:
* Before driving, carefully test the brakes in a safe, controlled environment. The brakes should feel firm and responsive.
Important Considerations:
* Brake fluid: Be careful not to spill brake fluid on painted surfaces, as it can damage the paint.
* Torque specifications: Use a torque wrench to tighten bolts to the correct specifications. This is crucial for safety.
* Repair manual: This is absolutely essential. It will provide detailed instructions, diagrams, and torque specifications specific to your 1997 Oldsmobile Regency.
This is a simplified overview. Brake repair can be complex, and mistakes can be dangerous. If you're not comfortable with this level of automotive repair, please take your car to a qualified mechanic. The cost of professional repair is far less than the cost of an accident caused by improperly installed brakes.
