Here's a general outline. This is not a comprehensive guide and should not be considered a substitute for a proper repair manual specific to your vehicle's year and model. Always consult your repair manual for detailed instructions, torque specifications, and diagrams.
Tools You'll Likely Need:
* Jack and jack stands: Essential for safely lifting the vehicle. Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack.
* Wheel chocks: To prevent the vehicle from rolling.
* Lug wrench: To remove the wheels.
* Socket set and wrenches: Various sizes will be needed, likely including metric sizes.
* C-clamp or caliper compression tool: To compress the caliper piston.
* Brake cleaner: To clean brake parts.
* Penetrating lubricant (PB Blaster or similar): May be needed to loosen rusted bolts.
* New rear brake pads: Make sure you get the correct pads for your vehicle.
* Torque wrench: To tighten bolts to the manufacturer's specifications.
* Gloves: To protect your hands.
* Safety glasses: To protect your eyes.
General Steps (Consult your repair manual for specifics):
1. Safety First: Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and chock the front wheels.
2. Lift and Support: Safely lift the vehicle using a jack and secure it on jack stands.
3. Remove the Wheel: Remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel.
4. Expose the Caliper: You might need to remove a dust shield or other components to fully access the caliper.
5. 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. Be careful not to damage the piston seal. Some pistons rotate as they are compressed.
6. Remove the Old Pads: Usually, there are retaining pins or clips holding the brake pads in place. Remove these and take out the old pads.
7. Clean: Thoroughly clean the caliper and caliper mounting bracket with brake cleaner.
8. Install the New Pads: Carefully install the new brake pads, ensuring they slide freely in their guides.
9. Reassemble: Reinstall any retaining pins or clips.
10. Reinstall the Wheel: Put the wheel back on and tighten the lug nuts. Do not fully tighten them yet.
11. Lower the Vehicle: Carefully lower the vehicle to the ground.
12. Torque Lug Nuts: Tighten the lug nuts to the manufacturer's specified torque using a torque wrench.
13. Test the Brakes: Pump the brake pedal several times to build up pressure. Test drive the vehicle very cautiously. After a few stops, check the brake pedal for firmness. If the pedal feels spongy, you may need to bleed the brakes. (This is an additional step that requires more specialized tools and knowledge.)
Important Considerations:
* Brake fluid: You may need to add brake fluid if the master cylinder reservoir level is low after compressing the caliper piston.
* Brake bleeding: While not always necessary, bleeding the brakes is often recommended after replacing pads to remove any air bubbles that may have entered the system.
* Rotor condition: Inspect the brake rotors for wear and tear. If they are excessively worn, scored, or warped, they need to be replaced or machined.
* Caliper condition: While you're in there, visually inspect the calipers for leaks, cracks, or other signs of damage.
Again, this is a simplified overview. Refer to a repair manual specific to your 2002 Chrysler Town & Country for detailed instructions and safety precautions. Improper brake repair can lead to serious injury or death. If you're unsure about any step, seek professional help.
