However, if you are experienced and understand the risks, here's a general outline of the process. This is NOT a complete guide and should be supplemented with a repair manual specific to your vehicle:
1. Safety First:
* Engage the parking brake: This is crucial to prevent the vehicle from rolling.
* Use jack stands: Never work under a vehicle supported only by a jack. Use jack stands rated for the vehicle's weight.
* Wear safety glasses and gloves: Protect yourself from flying debris and chemicals.
2. Diagnosis:
* Identify the problem: Is it a soft pedal, spongy pedal, pulling to one side, grinding noise, warning light illuminated (ABS or brake light)? This will dictate which components need attention.
* Inspect brake pads and rotors: Check pad thickness (replace if below minimum thickness specified in your repair manual). Inspect rotors for scoring, cracks, or excessive wear.
* Inspect brake lines and hoses: Look for leaks, bulges, or kinks.
* Check brake fluid level: Low fluid indicates a leak somewhere in the system.
3. Repair Procedures (General - Consult your repair manual for specifics):
* Bleeding the brakes: This is necessary after any work on the brake system. It removes air bubbles that can compromise braking performance. Bleeding ABS systems is more complicated and often requires a scan tool to properly actuate the ABS pump.
* Replacing brake pads: This is relatively straightforward but requires proper caliper piston retraction. Failure to do this correctly can damage the caliper.
* Replacing brake rotors: Usually requires specialized tools to remove and install.
* Replacing brake calipers: More complex, often requiring bleeding and potentially rebuilding or replacing the caliper.
* Repairing or replacing brake lines and hoses: Requires careful bending and flaring of lines. Leaks must be found and addressed.
* ABS system repair: This is the most complex aspect. Problems can range from a faulty sensor to a malfunctioning ABS module, requiring diagnostic tools and potentially specialized knowledge. A simple ABS light might be due to a sensor or even a bad wheel speed sensor, but it may also be a more complicated ABS pump failure.
4. Tools You Will Likely Need:
* Jack and jack stands
* Wheel chocks
* Wrenches (various sizes)
* Socket set
* Torque wrench
* Brake caliper piston compressor tool
* Brake fluid bleeder kit
* C-clamps (possibly)
* Wire brush
* Shop rags
* New brake pads, rotors (if needed), calipers (if needed), brake fluid, and any other necessary parts.
* Repair manual specific to your 1997 Chrysler Cirrus LXi
5. Post-Repair:
* Test the brakes: After completing repairs, carefully test the brakes in a safe, controlled environment. Ensure they work properly and evenly.
* Check for leaks: Inspect the brake system for any leaks after a test drive.
Again, I strongly emphasize that brake repair is dangerous and requires expertise. If you are not experienced with auto repair, take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic. Improperly repaired brakes can lead to serious injury or death. The information above is for educational purposes only and should not be considered a substitute for professional guidance. Always consult a repair manual specific to your vehicle for detailed instructions and safety precautions.
