How to Change Front Brakes on a 2004 Pontiac Vibe

The larger size of the Pontiac Vibe can sometimes take a toll on its brakes. A grinding sound when applying the brakes indicates the brakes need to be changed immediately before they damage the rest of the brake system. Replacing the front brake pads on the Vibe is similar to changing the front brakes on most other vehicles, as they are contained within calipers mounted on the brake discs.

Instructions

Park the vehicle on a level surface and turn off its ignition. Open and secure its hood. Open the cap on the brake fluid reservoir located in the engine compartment to allow air flow. This helps air escape the reservoir, not let air in. Loosen the front wheels' lug nuts with the tire iron, turning counterclockwise.

Raise the Vibe's front end--a commercial floor jack will work better than the stock jack--and support it on jack stands. Unscrew and remove the lug nuts. Remove both front wheels, even though you will work on one brake assembly at a time.

Compress the piston in the brake caliper using a C-clamp; the piston is located within the arch on the caliper. This will push brake fluid into the reservoir; make sure it does not overflow.

Apply an aerosol brake cleaner to the entire brake assembly to clean it off, using a pan to catch any dripping residue.

Unscrew the two bolts at the ends of the caliper with a wrench--do not touch the center bolt with the brake hose--and remove the caliper from the disc. Hang the caliper from the shock coil using a strong wire.

Pull the shims out of the caliper mounting bracket, then remove the brake pad. Each pad contains an outer and inner shim; remove both shims for one pad and then the pad.

Install the replacement inner brake pad with its two shims, making sure the pad's retaining ears engage with the upper and lower pad support plates. Repeat the step for the outer pad.

Remove the slide pins from the bracket and clean them with brake cleaner and a rag. Apply high-temperature grease to the pins and reinstall them in the bracket.

Reconnect the caliper to the mounting bracket using its bolts. You might need to compress the caliper piston with the clamp if you cannot fit the caliper.

Reconnect the wheels and lug nuts, turning clockwise. Lower the car off the jack stands with the jack after completing the above steps for both brakes.

Inspect the level of brake fluid within the reservoir and add more fluid, if needed.