- A Cavalier usually takes semi-metallic brake pads, and all models from 1996 to 2005 take the same brakes. You can buy them online or at any auto parts store. You can buy cheaper pads made with metal or ceramic pads that will last much longer, though they are a little more expensive. Installing them is a job you can do at home if you have some experience with cars and the right tools.
- Disengage the brake fluid reservoir by removing the cap under the hood. When you release the pressure here, the brakes can be pushed back fully. Then set the car on jacks and remove the wheel. Using a flathead screwdriver, pry the brake pad piston back, then remove the brake caliper which holds the pad to the rotor.
- Pop off the pads from the caliper. You might need to work them out with a screwdriver. Then take out the new pads and place them in position just as the old pads were situated. Make sure they are an exact fit. They should slide into place and secure exactly as the old pads did. All that is left is to replace the tire and put the cap back on your brake fluid reservoir. You may also need to bleed your brake lines to get the air out of the system.
- Pump your brakes once they are installed. They should feel similar to the way the brakes felt before. If not, there is excess air in the lines, or you have lost fluid. Bleeding the brake lines and replacing the fluid will help solve this problem. Open the bleeding valves on the calipers and then manually pump the pedals to release the excess air and fluid. You should immediately replace the fluid and then reattach the valves. Then try the brakes again. You may also need to adjust your calipers, especially if your old brakes were very worn. New brake pads will be thicker and therefore the brakes may feel tighter.
