Tools Needed for Saturn Ion Brakes

There are various reasons you may want to work on your Saturn Ion brakes, including indications of low brake fluid, power brake failure and loud noises from the braking system. Squeaking brakes may indicate the need for new brake pads. Replacing brake pads is one of the more common do-it-yourself brake projects as it requires only a few basic tools that many amateur mechanics already have in their garages.

Caliper Compression Tool

A caliper compression tool makes changing brake pads much easier because it eliminates the need for removal of the calipers. Removing calipers requires first bleeding the brakes which is unnecessary with the compression tool. Because it can be an expensive tool ($300 or more in 2010) consider renting it from a local tool rental center in your area.

Floor Jack

Use a floor jack to lift one corner of the vehicle off the ground before removing the tire for access to the brakes. Floor jacks are simple to use and safe when you follow the manufacturer's safety recommendations. Floor jacks use hydraulics to lift heavy objects with relative ease. Always secure the jack to a solid part of the vehicle frame and never leave it elevated longer than necessary.

Torque Wrench

Torque wrenches loosen and tighten bolts with the proper amount of force. Too much pressure and the bolt may become stripped or break. Not enough pressure, and the bolt may become loose, and potentially problematic. You can set the torque wrench to a certain breaking force, allowing the bolt to be tightened to a certain point before an audible "click" is heard, indicating that the desired tension has been reached.