How to Install Front Brake Pads on a Bravada

Replacing brake pads on a Oldsmobile Bravada is not too difficult provided you have a few of the right tools to make it easier. Depending on driving and braking habits, from normal wear and tear, brake pads can wear down between 25,000 to 35,000 miles. Replacing your own pads can save you expensive labor charges incurred at your local service station. Replacing the pads when they're low is a key component if you do not wish to replace rotors at the same time. Most pads come with wear sensors nowadays (a small metal tab riveted to the backing plate of the pad) and will make noise when the pads are getting low, indicating it's time to replace them.

• Floor jackJack standWheel chockSmall angled pry bar or large straight-edged screwdriver1/2-inch drive breaking bar with appropriate deep socket; most likely a 3/4-inch or 19 millimeter3/8-inch drive ratchet with a 3/8-inch hex head adapter socket (male) or a 3/8-inch Allen wrenchSandpaper or wire brushC-clamp or extra large pair of channel locksHigh temperature anti-seize lubricant or you can use the silicone compound that comes with the pads1/2-inch drive adjustable torque wrench (set to 100 foot pounds)

How to Install Front Brake Pads on a Bravada
1. Step 1

   Park the vehicle on a flat level paved or concrete surface. Place vehicle in park or in gear. Apply the parking brake. Turn the steering wheel all the way to the right and shut ignition completely off. This will set you up to remove and replace the pads on the left front wheel first. Since the caliper is located at the back side of the front wheel, it will now extend past the wheel well when the tire is off and give you more room to work. Reverse the process when you're ready to work on the right side. Place a wheel chock behind one or both rear tires or in front and rear of one rear tire.

2. Step 2

   Break the lug nuts loose on the left front tire with the breaking bar and deep socket. Do not remove.

3. Step 3

   Lift the left front quarter panel of the vehicle with the floor jack and place jack stand under vehicle in a secure location to support the weight of the vehicle.

4. Step 4

   Remove the lug nuts and take the tire off.

5. Step 5

   Remove the caliper bolts using a 3/8-inch ratchet and 3/8-inch hex head male socket (recommended) or a 3/8-inch Allen wrench.

6. Step 6

   Pry off the caliper gently with small angled pry bar or large straight-edged screwdriver.

7. Step 7

   Remove the old pads, but take note if there is any wear sensor in what location it is in so when you place in the new pads, it's in the same location. The inboard and outboard pad have riveted hardware on them then hold them in place quite differently from one another. You may need the screwdriver or pry bar to remove old pads and when installing the new ones.

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