How to Replace Rear Brakes 03-07 Cadillac CTS

Difficulty: Intermediate · About 90 min · Cadillac Cts

Replace the rear disc pads and rotors on a 2003–07 Cadillac CTS, cleaning the bracket slides and restoring firm pedal feel before driving.

Steps

1. Lift and remove the wheel

   Loosen the lug nuts on the ground, raise and support the vehicle securely, then remove the wheel to expose the rear brake assembly.

2. Remove the caliper and rotor

   Remove the rotor retaining screw and caliper fasteners. Support the caliper with a hook or strap so its hose is not stretched, then remove the carrier and rotor.

3. Clean the hub and pad slides

   Remove the metal pad slides and brush corrosion from them and the carrier seats. Clean the hub face and apply only a thin film of suitable brake lubricant where the rotor contacts the hub.

4. Install the new rotor and carrier

   Place the replacement rotor on the hub and clean its friction surfaces with brake cleaner. Refit the retaining screw and carrier, tightening its bolts to the vehicle's specification.

5. Install pads and caliper

   Apply a small amount of brake grease to pad contact points, then seat the pads in the slides. Retract the caliper piston with a clamp and reinstall the caliper, tightening hardware to specification.

6. Reinstall the wheel and verify

   Mount the wheel and lower the vehicle. Torque the lug nuts to specification in a crossing pattern, pump the brake pedal until firm, and make a cautious low-speed test.

Check your vehicle’s repair manual for exact specifications and fit.