Tools You'll 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 wrench set (metric): Various sizes will be needed.
* Ratcheting wrench: Makes the job easier.
* C-clamp (or brake caliper compressor tool): To compress the caliper piston.
* Wire brush: To clean the caliper and hub.
* Brake cleaner: To clean surfaces before reassembly.
* Penetrating lubricant (like PB Blaster): To help loosen stuck bolts.
* New brake pads and rotors: Make sure you get the correct parts for your specific Trailblazer model (front or rear).
* Torque wrench: To tighten bolts to the manufacturer's specifications.
* Gloves: To protect your hands.
* Safety glasses: To protect your eyes.
Procedure (for Front Brakes - Rear Brakes are Similar but May Have Slight Variations):
1. Safety First: Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and chock the rear wheels.
2. Jack Up and Secure: Jack up the front of the vehicle and securely place it on jack stands.
3. Remove Wheel: Remove the lug nuts and carefully take off the wheel.
4. Remove Caliper:
* Locate the caliper mounting bolts (usually two).
* Spray penetrating lubricant on the bolts if they're difficult to remove.
* Carefully remove the bolts and gently lower the caliper. You might need to support the caliper with a bungee cord or wire to keep it from hanging by the brake line.
5. Compress Caliper Piston:
* Using a C-clamp or caliper compressor tool, slowly and evenly compress the caliper piston. This is crucial to make room for the new, thicker brake pads. Brake fluid will be displaced, so check and potentially top off the brake fluid reservoir as needed. Never compress the piston too quickly, as this can damage the system.
6. Remove Old Brake Pads:
* The old brake pads should now be easily removable. Note their orientation for correct installation of the new pads.
7. Remove Rotor (if replacing):
* Usually, you'll find one or two bolts holding the rotor to the hub. Remove these. If the rotor is stubbornly stuck, use a rubber mallet to gently tap it off. Be careful not to damage the wheel studs.
8. Clean:
* Thoroughly clean the caliper, hub, and rotor mounting surface with a wire brush and brake cleaner.
9. Install New Rotor (if replacing):
* Install the new rotor onto the wheel studs. Make sure it's seated properly. Tighten the rotor mounting bolts (if applicable) to the manufacturer's specifications.
10. Install New Brake Pads:
* Install the new brake pads, ensuring they slide into their respective slots smoothly and are properly oriented.
11. Reinstall Caliper:
* Carefully reattach the caliper to the mounting brackets. Make sure the caliper slides freely. Tighten the bolts to the manufacturer's specifications.
12. Reinstall Wheel:
* Put the wheel back on, and hand-tighten the lug nuts.
13. Lower Vehicle:
* Lower the vehicle to the ground.
14. Tighten Lug Nuts:
* Tighten the lug nuts to the manufacturer's specifications using a torque wrench.
15. Pump Brakes:
* Pump the brake pedal several times to ensure the pads are properly seated against the rotors. Check for any leaks.
16. Test Drive:
* Take a short test drive to ensure the brakes are working correctly. Listen for any unusual noises.
Repeat the process for the other front wheel, and then for the rear wheels (if needed).
Important Considerations:
* Consult a Repair Manual: A repair manual specific to your 2003 Chevy Trailblazer will provide detailed instructions, torque specifications, and diagrams.
* Brake Fluid: Monitor your brake fluid level throughout the process. If it gets low, top it off with the correct type of brake fluid.
* Bleeding Brakes: In some cases, you may need to bleed the brakes after replacing the pads and rotors to remove any air that might have entered the system. This is a more advanced procedure.
This is a general guide. Always refer to a repair manual for your specific vehicle model for precise instructions and torque specifications. If you are uncomfortable performing this repair, take your vehicle to a qualified mechanic. Improper brake repair can be extremely dangerous.
