How to Replace Rear Brakes 09-10 Pontiac Vibe
Difficulty: Advanced · About 110 min · Pontiac Vibe
Replace rear pads and rotors on a 2009–2010 Pontiac Vibe. The rear caliper piston must be reset using its proper procedure; use vehicle-spec torque values and verify parking-brake function before driving.
Tools you will need
- Floor jack
- Jack stands
- 21mm socket
- 14mm socket
- Ratchet
- Needle-nose pliers
- Wire brush
- Brake parts cleaner
- Torque wrench
Parts and supplies
- Rear brake pads
- Rear brake rotors
Steps
Raise the vehicle and remove the wheel
Loosen the wheel nuts on the ground, raise the rear at approved points, and support it with jack stands. Remove the wheel and check brake wear.
Remove the caliper and rotor
Remove the caliper fasteners and support the caliper so its hose is not strained. Remove the pads and bracket, then slide off the rotor; use controlled taps only if it is seized.
Prepare the caliper and new parts
Clean the pad slides, inspect the caliper, and reset its piston using the proper rear-caliper method for this model. Clean the replacement rotor and avoid contaminating its friction surface.
Install pads, rotor, and caliper
Seat the rotor and bracket, install the pads with a small amount of approved lubricant only at contact points, then refit the caliper. Tighten fasteners to vehicle specification.
Reinstall the wheel and verify
Tighten wheel nuts in a star pattern to specification, lower the car, and pump the pedal until firm. Confirm the parking brake releases and test brakes at low speed before driving normally.
Check your vehicle’s repair manual for exact specifications and fit.