Tools You'll Need:
* 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 (metric): You'll need various sizes, likely including 13mm, 14mm, and 15mm.
* Brake caliper piston compressor tool: Essential for compressing the brake caliper piston. C-clamps can sometimes work but are less ideal.
* Wrench for caliper bracket bolts: Likely 14mm or 15mm.
* Pliers: For various tasks, including disconnecting brake lines.
* Brake cleaner: To clean brake parts thoroughly.
* New brake pads and rotors (if needed): Buy parts specific to your 2000 Pontiac Sunfire GT. Don't forget the anti-seize lubricant.
* Torque wrench: To tighten bolts to the manufacturer's specifications.
* Gloves and safety glasses: Protect yourself.
Procedure:
1. Safety First: Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and chock the rear wheels. Jack up the front of the car and securely place it on jack stands.
2. Remove the Wheel: Remove the lug nuts and carefully remove the wheel.
3. Remove the Caliper:
* Locate the caliper bolts (usually two) that hold the caliper to the caliper bracket. These are typically 14mm or 15mm.
* Before removing the bolts, use a suitable wrench to slightly loosen the brake line fitting where it connects to the caliper. *This is important; you'll want to loosen this enough to allow the caliper to move freely, but don't disconnect the line yet*.
* Unscrew the caliper bolts and carefully remove the caliper. Support the caliper to prevent the brake line from being stretched or damaged. You might want to hang it using a wire or zip tie.
4. Compress the Caliper Piston: Use the caliper piston compressor tool to compress the brake caliper piston. This creates space for the new, thicker brake pads. You'll need to push the piston in fairly firmly. *Be careful not to damage the piston or boot*.
5. Remove the Old Brake Pads: The old brake pads should now be easily removable from the caliper bracket.
6. Inspect the Rotors: Check the rotors for scoring, excessive wear, or warping. If they're damaged, they need to be replaced.
7. Install New Brake Pads: Install the new brake pads into the caliper bracket.
8. Install the Caliper: Carefully remount the caliper onto the caliper bracket, ensuring the caliper slides smoothly. Tighten the caliper bolts to the proper torque specification.
9. Reconnect the Brake Line: Connect the brake line if you had to partially loosen it previously.
10. Reinstall the Wheel: Replace the wheel and tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern to ensure even tightening. Torque the lug nuts to the manufacturer's specification.
11. Lower the Car: Carefully lower the car from the jack stands.
12. Test the Brakes: Before driving, pump the brake pedal several times to build up pressure. Test the brakes carefully in a safe, open area. If the brake pedal feels soft or spongy, there might be air in the brake lines. You might need to bleed the brakes (a separate and more advanced procedure).
Important Considerations:
* Bleeding Brakes: If you have to disconnect the brake line, you'll likely need to bleed the brakes afterward to remove any air that might have entered the system. This requires a helper and a brake bleeder kit.
* Rotors: If the rotors are worn or damaged, they need to be replaced. This usually involves removing them with appropriate tools.
* Anti-Seize Lubricant: Use anti-seize lubricant on caliper pins and slider pins to prevent them from seizing. *Never apply anti-seize to the brake pad contact surfaces.*
* Consult a Repair Manual: This guide is for general information only. Always refer to a repair manual specific to your 2000 Pontiac Sunfire GT for detailed instructions and torque specifications.
Again, if you're uncomfortable with any of these steps, it's best to have a qualified mechanic perform the brake work. Improperly installed brakes can be extremely dangerous.
