How to Replace PT Cruiser Brake Pads

Through normal wear and tear, the brake pads on the Chrysler PT Cruiser will wear down and require replacement. While it is recommended to replace the rotors or have them machined when replacing the pads, there are occasions where replacing the pads is acceptable. All PT Cruisers feature front disk brakes, but some may also feature rear disk brakes, instead of rear drum brakes. Replacing the pads on the front or rear of the Cruiser employs a similar procedure.

Instructions

1

Remove 1/3 of the brake fluid from the master cylinder using a brake fluid siphon. Discard the fluid and replace the master cylinder cover.

2

Crack the five lug nuts loose on one side using the tire iron. Lift the Cruiser using a hydraulic jack and place a jack stand under the frame rail to support the car. Finish removing the lug nuts and then remove the wheel.

3

Place the large C-clamp over the outboard pad and the rear caliper housing. Tighten the clamp to compress the caliper piston until the piston is seated inside the piston bore.

4

Remove the top and bottom caliper guide bolts using a metric wrench. Remove the caliper and pad assembly. Support the caliper to the front coil spring by bending a metal coat hanger into a makeshift hook. Do not allow the caliper to hang from the brake hose or damage to the hose can occur.

5

Pry the outboard pad retaining clips off of the caliper housing and then remove the pad. Pull the inboard pad from the caliper piston bore.

6

Clean the area of the caliper bridge where the backing plate tabs of the pads contact using emery cloth. Apply a light coat of silicone brake lubricant to the contact points. Install replacement pads--inboard pad first and then the outboard pad. Apply a light coat of silicone brake lubricant to the non-threaded area of the caliper guide bolts. Replace the caliper and pad assembly over the rotor and then replace and tighten the guide bolts.

7

Replace the wheel and lug nuts. Tighten the lug nuts flush to the hub and then lower the Cruiser. Use a torque wrench and a 19mm socket to tighten the lug nuts properly to 100 foot pounds. Repeat the procedure for the other side.

8

Pump the foot brake pedal five to six times to seat the new pads to the rotor. When the pedal feels firm, recheck and adjust the brake fluid level in the master cylinder. Test drive the Cruiser to ensure the braking system is working properly.