Here's a general guide; specific steps might vary slightly depending on the exact caliper design on your particular model. Consult a repair manual specific to your 1996 Cadillac Deville Concours for precise diagrams and torque specifications. This is crucial to avoid damaging your vehicle.
Tools You'll Need:
* Jack and jack stands
* Wheel chocks
* Lug wrench
* Socket wrench set (metric)
* Brake caliper piston compression tool (C-clamp can sometimes work in a pinch, but a proper tool is recommended)
* Pliers
* Wire brush (to clean caliper surfaces)
* Brake cleaner
* New front brake pads (ensure you get the correct part number for your vehicle)
* Torque wrench (highly recommended)
* Gloves
* Rags
Steps:
1. Safety First: Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and chock the rear wheels. Jack up the front of the car and securely place it on jack stands. Remove the wheel.
2. Inspect: Examine the brake pads and rotor. Note the pad thickness – replace them if they're worn below the minimum thickness specified in your repair manual. Inspect the rotor for scoring or excessive wear. If the rotor is damaged, it will likely need to be resurfaced or replaced.
3. Caliper Removal (if necessary): Depending on your DeVille's caliper design, you may need to remove the entire caliper assembly or just compress the piston. Some models may require removing a caliper mounting bolt or two. Your repair manual will guide you here. If you remove the caliper, support it with wire or a bungee cord to prevent it from hanging by the brake hose.
4. Compressing the Caliper Piston: Using the caliper piston compression tool, carefully compress the piston back into the caliper. This creates space for the new, thicker brake pads. Turn the piston slowly and evenly to avoid damage. Brake fluid will be displaced, so check your master cylinder's fluid level and top it off if necessary. *Be cautious not to over-compress the piston.*
5. Pad Removal: Once the piston is compressed, remove the old brake pads. They usually just slide out.
6. Cleaning: Use a wire brush to clean any rust or debris from the caliper and the caliper bracket. Clean the caliper mounting surfaces and the brake rotor with brake cleaner.
7. Installation: Install the new brake pads. Make sure they slide in easily.
8. Reassembly: Reinstall the caliper (if removed). Carefully guide it onto the mounting pins and tighten the bolts to the manufacturer's specified torque.
9. Reinstall Wheel: Carefully install the wheel and tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern. Lower the vehicle.
10. Torque Lug Nuts: Tighten the lug nuts to the manufacturer's specified torque using a torque wrench.
11. Test: Carefully test the brakes several times. Check for any unusual noises or vibrations. If anything feels wrong, stop immediately.
Important Considerations:
* Brake Fluid: Be prepared for brake fluid to spill. Have rags ready and check your master cylinder fluid level frequently. If the fluid level gets low, you may need to bleed the brakes.
* Bleeding Brakes (if necessary): If you’ve opened the brake system, it may be necessary to bleed the brakes to remove any air that might have entered the system. This requires a second person and a bleeding kit. Your repair manual will detail this procedure.
* Rotor Resurfacing or Replacement: If the rotors are excessively worn, they should be resurfaced (machined) or replaced. This requires specialized equipment.
* Professional Help: If you are uncomfortable with any of these steps, it's best to take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic. Improper brake repair can be extremely dangerous.
This guide provides general information. Always refer to a repair manual specific to your 1996 Cadillac DeVille Concours for detailed instructions and torque specifications. Your safety is paramount.
