* Rear Brake Pads: A set for your specific Vue (ensure you get the correct ones for your model, as there might be slight variations).
* Rear Brake Shoes (if applicable): The 2003 Saturn Vue *likely* uses drum brakes on the rear. If it has drum brakes (check your owner's manual or visually inspect), you'll also need new brake shoes. If it has disc brakes in the rear, you can skip this.
* Hardware: This is crucial and often overlooked. For drum brakes, you'll need new brake shoe springs, self-adjusters (sometimes called "automatic adjusters"), and possibly wheel cylinder seals or a new wheel cylinder if they're damaged or leaking. For disc brakes, you'll need caliper pins/bolts and potentially new clips.
* Brake Lubricant: A high-temperature brake grease is essential for lubricating the caliper pins (for disc brakes) or the moving parts of the drum brake mechanism. Do not use general purpose grease.
* New Wheel Cylinders (Drum Brakes only, if needed): If the wheel cylinders are leaking or damaged, you'll need replacements. Inspect them carefully.
* Optional: Rotors (Disc Brakes only, if needed): If the rotors are worn below the minimum thickness specified in your owner's manual, you'll need new ones. You'll also need new rotor mounting hardware if the original hardware is significantly rusted.
Tools You'll Also 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: For added safety.
* Sockets and Wrenches: A variety of sizes to fit your car's specific nuts and bolts.
* C-Clamp (for drum brakes): To compress the wheel cylinder and release the brake shoes.
* Screw Driver (for drum brakes): Possibly for removing retaining clips and adjusting mechanisms.
* Wire Brush: To clean brake parts.
* Brake Cleaner: To thoroughly clean brake components before installation.
* Gloves: To keep your hands clean.
* Owner's Manual: Refer to it for specific torque specifications for bolts.
Important Note: Before purchasing any parts, confirm whether your 2003 Saturn Vue has rear disc brakes or drum brakes. This will significantly affect the parts you need. Check your owner's manual or visually inspect the rear wheels. If you're unsure, consult a mechanic.
