How to Replace the Brake Pads on a 2000 Chevy S10

The 2000 Chevy S10 truck uses the style of brake calipers that store the brake pads within the caliper, rather than in the mounting bracket. If you hear any grinding sounds when using the brakes, you need to replace these pads immediately. Use extreme caution while doing so; the pads need to be properly positioned within the caliper to ensure proper operation of the braking system.

Instructions

Loosen the lug nuts on both front wheels with your tire iron, then raise the truck's front end with a floor jack, support it on jack stands and remove both of the front wheels.

Open the hood and the brake master cylinder reservoir and then use a turkey baster or similar tool to siphon out at least two thirds of the brake fluid. Obey all local laws when disposing of the fluid.

Wash off the entire brake disc and caliper assembly using an aerosol brake cleaner and a drain pan placed underneath the assembly.

Compress the caliper piston using a C-clamp, positioning the ends of the clamp within the arches in the middle of the caliper.

Unscrew and remove the brake caliper mounting bolts using a socket wrench with a hex bolt socket. Remove the brake line's retaining clip from the frame rail and remove the caliper from the disc.

Pull the inner brake pad out of the caliper and remove the pad's anti-rattle clip with pliers. Pry the outer brake pad out of its retainer in the caliper with a flat screwdriver and remove the outer pad.

Connect the anti-rattle clip to the replacement inner brake pad and insert the pad within the brake caliper, then install the outer pad.

Apply multi-purpose grease with a brush to the end surfaces of the caliper's mounting bracket.

Place the caliper back onto the mounting bracket and apply the mounting bolts, tightening them to 37 foot pounds if you have a torque wrench available.

Repeat the caliper removal and installation steps for the other caliper.

Fill the brake master cylinder reservoir with fresh brake fluid.

Press on the brake pedal several times to properly seat the new pads, then bend the outer pads' upper ears with adjustable pliers until the ears are flush and even with the caliper housing.

Reconnect both wheels and lower the truck, tightening the lug nuts after lowering it off the jack stands.