Here's a general outline of the process. This is NOT a comprehensive guide, and specific steps may vary slightly depending on your exact model and components. Always consult a repair manual specific to your 1994 Buick Park Avenue for detailed instructions and diagrams.
1. Gather Tools and Materials:
* Repair Manual: Essential for specific torque specifications and component locations.
* Jack and Jack Stands: Crucial for safety. Never work under a car supported only by a jack.
* Wheel Chocks: To prevent the car from rolling.
* Lug Wrench: To remove the wheels.
* Socket Wrench Set: Various sizes will be needed.
* Wrench Set: Open-end and box-end wrenches.
* C-clamp or caliper compressor tool: To compress the caliper piston.
* Brake Caliper Piston Wind Back Tool: Highly recommended to avoid damaging the piston seal.
* New Brake Pads: Get a matching set for both sides.
* New Brake Rotors (if needed): Inspect the rotors for excessive wear or scoring. If they're damaged, replace them.
* Brake Cleaner: To clean brake parts.
* Penetrating Oil (like PB Blaster): May help loosen rusted bolts.
* Gloves: To keep your hands clean.
* Safety Glasses: To protect your eyes.
2. Safety First:
* Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and chock the rear wheels.
* Raise the vehicle securely using the jack and place it on jack stands.
3. Remove the Wheel:
* Loosen the lug nuts slightly before jacking up the car.
* Remove the wheel.
4. Inspect the Brakes:
* Examine the brake pads for wear. Replace if they are worn down to the wear indicator.
* Inspect the brake rotors for scoring, grooves, or excessive wear. Replace if necessary.
* Check the brake caliper for leaks or damage.
5. Remove the Caliper:
* Depending on your model, you may need to remove caliper mounting bolts and possibly disconnect the brake line. Your repair manual will show you the specific procedure. Be careful not to damage the brake line.
6. Compress the Caliper Piston:
* Use a C-clamp or a specialized caliper piston wind back tool to compress the piston back into the caliper. This is crucial to allow the new pads to fit. Turning the piston in the wrong direction can damage the seals!
7. Install New Brake Pads:
* Clean the caliper and caliper mounting brackets.
* Install the new brake pads.
8. Install the Caliper:
* Install the caliper back onto the mounting brackets.
9. Reinstall the Wheel:
* Tighten the lug nuts securely.
10. Repeat Steps 3-9 for the Other Wheel:
* Remember to always work on both sides of the vehicle at the same time for optimal braking performance.
11. Bleed the Brakes (Important!):
* After replacing brake components, it's vital to bleed the brakes to remove any air that may have entered the system. This process requires two people and a wrench. Consult your repair manual for the correct bleeding procedure. Air in the brake lines can significantly impair braking performance.
12. Test the Brakes:
* After bleeding the brakes, carefully test them in a safe, controlled environment (like an empty parking lot). The brakes should feel firm and responsive. If not, there may be an issue that needs further investigation.
Again, this is a simplified overview. Refer to a repair manual specific to your 1994 Buick Park Avenue for detailed instructions, diagrams, and torque specifications. If you are not comfortable performing this repair yourself, take your car to a qualified mechanic. Improper brake repair can lead to dangerous and potentially fatal consequences.
