Removal Procedure

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2015 Chevrolet Trax and 2015 Buick Encore. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

WARNING:

Refer to Brake Dust Warning .

WARNING:

Refer to Brake Fluid Irritant Warning .

NOTE:

Always replace disc brake pads in axle sets.

Inspect the fluid level in the brake master cylinder reservoir.
If the brake fluid level is midway between the maximum-full point and the minimum allowable level, no brake fluid needs to be removed before proceeding.
If the brake fluid level is higher than midway between the maximum-full point and the minimum allowable level, remove brake fluid to the midway point before proceeding.
Raise and support the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle .
Remove the tire and wheel assembly. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation .
Place a large C-clamp over the brake caliper body and against the outer brake pad.
Using the C-clamp, compress the brake caliper piston fully into the brake caliper bore.

Fig 1: Lower Brake Caliper Guide Pin Bolt

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS COMPANY

NOTE:

DO NOT use any air tools to remove or install the guide pin bolts. Use hand tools ONLY.
Install an open end wrench to hold the caliper guide pin in line with the brake caliper while removing or installing the caliper guide pin bolt. DO NOT allow the open end wrench to come in contact with the brake caliper. Allowing the open end wrench to come in contact with the brake caliper will cause a pulsation when the brakes are applied.

Using a backup wrench to hold the brake caliper guide pin stationary, remove the lower brake caliper guide pin bolt (1).

CAUTION:

Support the brake caliper with heavy mechanic wire, or equivalent, whenever it is separated from its mount and the hydraulic flexible brake hose is still connected. Failure to support the caliper in this manner will cause the flexible brake hose to bear the weight of the caliper, which may cause damage to the brake hose and in turn may cause a brake fluid leak.

Rotate the brake caliper upward and support with heavy mechanics wire.

Fig 2: Inner And Outer Brake Pads

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS COMPANY

NOTE:

Note the location of the brake pad wear sensor for correct installation.

Remove the inner brake pad (1).
Remove the outer brake pad (2).

Fig 3: Brake Pad Springs

Courtesy of GENERAL MOTORS COMPANY

Remove the upper and lower brake pad springs (1).
If installing new brake pads, discard the brake pad springs.