How to Replace Rear Disc Brakes in a Chevy Cobalt

The Chevy Cobalt comes equipped with either disc or drum brakes in the rear. While they both provide adequate stopping power for a passenger car, disc brakes are much easier to replace. However, you will need a special tool called a spanner wrench caliper piston installer, available at most auto parts stores or the Chevy dealership.

Instructions

Removal of Brakes

1

Drain the brake fluid from the master cylinder reservoir, if it's above the minimum allowable level. Use a syringe or suction gun and empty the brake fluid into an approved, sealed container. Dispose of properly according to your state's regulations.

2

Lift the car from the ground using a jack. Support evenly on all sides with jack stands. Keep children and animals away from the car while you replace the rear disc brakes.

3

Loosen the lug nuts with a torque wrench. Remove the wheels and tire assembly and set them aside face up to prevent scratching the wheels. Secure two lug nuts to opposing wheel studs to prevent the rotor from coming off the hub.

4

Fasten a large C-clamp over the brake caliper, making sure the ends of it press against the back of the caliper body and the outer brake pad. Compress the piston in 1 mm, then remove the C-clamp.

5

Take out the brake caliper guide pin bolts, using a wrench to secure the flats of the pins. Remove the caliper and secure it to the frame of the Chevy Cobalt with mechanical wire. Take the brake pads and brake pad retainers off the caliper mounting bracket.

6

Clean the areas of the caliper bracket that contact the brake pads. Inspect the bracket pins, paying particular attention to any restricted movement, looseness or broken boots. If you find any problems, replace the caliper guide pins and/or boots.

7

Retract the piston into the caliper bore. Use a spanner wrench caliper piston installer. This tool is available at most auto parts stores or the Chevy dealership.

Installation of Brakes

8

Lubricate the areas of the caliper bracket that make contact with the pad hardware. Use a high temperature silicone brake lubricant. Wipe of any excess grease.

9

Attach the new pad retainers to the brake caliper bracket. Install the new brake pads.

10

Lay the caliper in its proper position over the brake pads. Attach it to the caliper mounting bracket and install the caliper guide pins. Tighten the bolts with 25 ft-lb torque.

11

Unfasten the lug nuts that hold the rotors on the hub. Replace the wheel and tire assembly, and lower the Chevy Cobalt to the ground.

12

Pump the brake pedal to seat the brake pads. Push it down about 2/3 of the way then wait 15 seconds before pressing again. Replace any necessary brake fluid to bring it to the proper level.