How to Replace Rear Disc Brakes in a Saturn Ion

The Saturn Ion has one of two types of brakes in the rear, disc or drum. While both types of brakes provide efficient stopping power for a passenger car, the disc brakes are easier to replace. Read further to learn how.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Spanner tool
• Silicone-based grease
• 2 New brake pads
• Wrench
• Torque wrench
• Brake fluid

Removal of the Old Disc Brakes

1. Drain half of the brake fluid from the master cylinder reservoir. Use a syringe or suction gun and empty the brake fluid into an approved sealed container. Dispose of it according to your county's regulations.

2. Lift the rear of the Ion off the ground using a car jack. Use jack stands to support the vehicle on all sides. Keep children out of the area when you replace the brakes to prevent accidental injury.

3. Loosen the lug nuts on the wheel and tire assemblies with a torque wrench. Set the assemblies aside face up to prevent damage. Replace two of the lug nuts to secure the rotor to the hub.

4. Compress the caliper 1mm with a large C-clamp. Place the C-clamp over the caliper body with one end of it touching the rear of the body and the other end touching the outer brake pad.

5. Secure one end of the caliper guide pins with a wrench and take off the guide pin bolts. Lift up the caliper and secure it to the frame of the Ion with mechanical wire. Don't disconnect the hydraulic flexible brake hose.

6. Take out the brake pads and retainers. Clean the hardware mating surfaces on the caliper bracket with brake parts cleaner. Inspect the guide pins and guide pin boots for damage.

Installation of the New Disc Brakes

7. Retract the piston into the bore with a spanner wrench. Lubricate the pad hardware mating surfaces on the caliper bracket.

8. Fasten the brake pad retainers to the caliper bracket. Connect the brake pads to the caliper bracket.

9. Release the caliper from the mechanical wire. Attach the caliper to the mounting bracket over the top of the brake pads. Secure the guide pins with a wrench and replace the guide pin bolts. Torque to 25 ft. lb.

10. Replace the wheel and tire assembly. Torque to the proper specifications. Lower the Ion to the ground and remove the car jack.

11. Pump the brakes two-thirds of the travel distance to seat the pistons and brake pads. Replace the brake fluid to bring it to the proper level as indicated.

Who Can Help Sponsored

• Need Cash For An Emergency? Auto Repair, Medical or Home Emergency—CashNetUSA.com is here to help you take control.