GM Service Manual Online
For 1990-2009 cars only

Inspection Procedure

Important: The brake pads must have freedom of movement within the brake caliper bracket. If movement is restricted by debris or rust, the brake pads may remain against the rotor after the brake pedal is released. This condition may contribute to the following conditions:

   • Accelerated brake pad wear
   • Brake pulsation
   • Rotor damage

  1. Remove and discard 2/3 of the brake fluid from the master cylinder.
  2. Raise the vehicle. Refer to Lifting and Jacking the Vehicle in General Information.

  3. Object Number: 378519  Size: SH
  4. Remove the tire and wheel. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation in Tires and Wheels.

  5. Object Number: 142234  Size: SH
  6. Install a C-clamp over the top of the brake caliper and against the back of the outboard brake pad.
  7. Tighten the C-clamp in order to push the brake caliper piston into the brake caliper bore as far as possible.
  8. Remove the C-clamp from the brake caliper.
  9. Important: The brake pad should move easily within the brake caliper bracket.

  10. Inspect the outer brake pad for freedom of movement relative to the brake caliper bracket.
  11. Important: The brake caliper should move easily within the brake caliper bracket.


    Object Number: 142246  Size: SH
  12. Use your hands in order to push the brake caliper inboard as far as possible. If the brake caliper does not move easily, perform the following steps.
  13. • Inspect and replace any worn or damaged brake caliper bolts  (1).
    • Inspect and replace any worn or damaged brake caliper bushings (2).

    Important: The brake pad should move easily within the brake caliper bracket.

  14. Inspect the inner brake pad for freedom of movement relative to the brake caliper bracket.
  15. • If brake pad movement is restricted for either brake pad, go to the Cleaning Procedure.
    • If brake pad movement is not restricted for either brake pad, go to the Installation Procedure.

Cleaning Procedure


    Object Number: 142240  Size: SH
  1. Remove the brake pads from the brake caliper (2). Refer to Brake Pads Replacement
  2. Use a wire brush in order to clean away any rust and debris from the brake caliper and knuckle where the brake pads contact.
  3. Apply a thin coat of silicone grease (GM P/N 18010909 or equivalent) to the brake caliper and knuckle where the brake pads come in contact.
  4. Perform the Inspection Procedure for the opposite side brake caliper.

Installation Procedure


    Object Number: 378519  Size: SH
  1. Install the tire and wheel. Refer to Tire and Wheel Removal and Installation in Tires and Wheels.
  2. Perform the Inspection Procedure for the opposite side brake caliper.
  3. Lower the vehicle.

  4. Object Number: 283188  Size: SH
  5. Fill the master cylinder to the proper level with new clean brake fluid. Refer to Master Cylinder Reservoir Filling in Hydraulic Brakes.
  6. Pump the brake pedal (3/4 of a full stroke) as many times as necessary in order to obtain a firm brake pedal.