How to Change Brakes on a 1999 Chevy Malibu

Removing the Brake Pads

1). Raise the driver side front end to access the brake system. Unbolt and remove the wheel with the tire tool. Place the wheel to the side.
2). Locate the two bolts on the back of the caliper. Loosen the bolts with the socket wrench.
3). Slide the caliper by lifting up and off the rotor. You may need to tap the caliper with a hammer if it is hard to move off the rotor.
4). Take the brake pads off the caliper with your fingers. The pads are held on by clips that keep it attached to the caliper.
5). Place one of the old pads back in to the caliper against the piston. You will need to retract the piston to make room for the new pads.
6). Place a c-clamp with one end resting against the brake pad and the other end against the back of the caliper. Compress the c-clamp by turning the handle on the top. Stop when the piston is completely retracted back in to the caliper.

1). Place the new brake pads in to the caliper. The pads will click in to place.
2). Bolt the caliper back to the rotor. Tighten the bolts with the socket wrench.
3). Secure the wheel back on to the axle. Ensure the lug nuts are tight before lowering the car.
4). Lower the car to the ground. Slide the jack from under the car.
5). Ensure all the lug nuts are tight. Tighten the lug nuts in a criss-cross pattern. Start with the top and then tighten the bottom lug nut. Secure the right lug nut then tighten the left lug nut. This will ensure the lug nuts are secure to the axle.
6). Repeat the steps to the passenger side of the vehicle. Pump the brake pedal when completed to reset the calipers.