How to Replace Rear Disc Brakes in a Plymouth Neon

In 1995, Plymouth released the first Neon. Throughout this time, the Neon was sold with either disc or drum brakes in the rear. Both types of brakes provide adequate stopping power for a small car, but disc brakes are easier to replace on your own. Read further to learn how.

Instructions

1

Raise the Neon off the ground using a car jack. Balance the vehicle on all sides to prevent it from tipping. Keep kids and animals out of the area while servicing the car.

2

Take off the rear wheels and remove the two pin bolts that connect the caliper to the steering knuckle guide. Turn the unattached end of the caliper away from the steering knuckle. Slide the caliper from underneath the steering knuckle and hang it from the upper control arm.

3

Pry the outboard brake pad's retaining clip over the edge of the caliper and slip out the pad. Separate the inboard brake pad from the piston by pulling the retaining clip from its cavity.

4

Inspect the caliper for brake fluid in or around the boot as this may signify a leak in the piston seal. If you detect damage or leakage, take apart the caliper and replace the seal and boot. Check the caliper pin bushings and replace if dry or damaged.

5

Compress the piston into the caliper using a C-clamp. Press the new inboard brake shoe into the caliper using both thumbs. Insert the outboard brake shoe in the caliper making sure the retaining clip sits firmly in the depressed area. Remove the C-clamp.

6

Grease the adapter caliper slide abutments using a multipurpose lubricant. Lower the caliper and brake shoes over the brake rotor until the caliper's bottom edge catches the back side of the caliper slide abutment. Turn the top of the caliper back into mounting position.

7

Replace the caliper pin bolts and tighten with a torque wrench to 16 ft. lb. Put the wheels back on and tighten the lug nuts with a torque wrench to 100 ft. lb. Lower the Neon, and then seat the brake pads by pumping the brake pedal until firm.