How to Change Brakes & Rotors on a 2000 Pontiac Sunfire

The 2000 Pontiac Sunfire has four-wheel anti-lock disc brakes. The brake system is comprised of the rotors, the calipers, and the brake pads. After years of use the brake rotors become scored by the brake pad wear indicators. The rotors can also become warped, which will significantly affect the performance of the brakes. The caliper, which houses the brake pads and the caliper piston, is a component that rarely (barring a collision) requires replacement. When changing the brake pads, inspect the caliper for cracking or other signs of serious wear.

Instructions

1

Loosen the lug nuts with the lug wrench. Lift the Sunfire with the jack and place jack stands beneath the frame.

2

Remove the lug nuts and pull the wheels from the wheel bolts.

3

Remove the two caliper bolts with the 5/8 inch Hex socket and ratchet. Remove the caliper and place it on top of the steering arm. Disconnect the brake line from the caliper by unscrewing the fastener that holds the line to the caliper.

4

Spray the rotor with chain lubricant to break up the bond of brake fluid and rust that holds the rotor to the wheel bolts. Pull the rotor from the wheel bolts.

5

Spray the new rotor with brake cleaner and wipe it clean. Place the rotor onto the wheel bolts with the raised center section (called the "top hat" section) facing outward.

6

Connect the new brake pads to the new caliper. The brake pads snap onto the sides of the caliper with thin metal clips on the back side of the brake pad.

7

Connect the brake line to the new caliper and screw the fastener (by hand) that holds the line in place.

8

Place the caliper onto the rotor and replace the caliper bolts with the 5/8-inch Hex socket and ratchet.

9

Replace the wheels on the wheel bolts and screw on the lug nuts by hand.

10

Remove the jack stands and lower the Pontiac to the ground. Tighten the lug nuts with the lug wrench.

11

Remove the cap to the master cylinder, located under the hood of the Pontiac Sunfire, and fill the container with brake fluid. Press the brake pedal three times slowly to force brake fluid into the new caliper.