How to Install Front Brake Pads in a VUE

The Saturn Vue is a cross-over sport utility vehicle. It comes with disc brakes on the front wheels. These brakes work by two brake pads pressing against a spinning rotor, which causes friction. As the brakes are used, the friction wears away on the brake pads. The pads need to be replaced regularly to keep the brakes functioning properly. A typical weekend mechanic can replace the front brake pads in an afternoon if all the pieces are gathered first.

Accessing the Brakes

• 1

  Park the Vue on a level and solid surface.

• 2

  Loosen the lug nuts on both front tires.

• 3

  Slide the floor jack under the front of the Vue and lift the vehicle by the front cross member of the frame.

• 4

  Place a jack stand under the frame behind each front wheel well, then lower the front of the SUV onto the stand.

• 5

  Remove the lug nuts and front tires.

Changing the Pads

• 1

  Use the ratchet and socket set to remove the bolts on the back disc brake assembly.

• 2

  Slide the screwdriver between the brake assembly and the brake rotor. Pry away from the center of the rotor to remove the brake assembly from the rotor.

• 3

  Tap on the back of the brake pads with the screwdriver to remove the brake pads if they do not fall out.

• 4

  Set the new brake pads into the brake pad tracks and press them firmly in place using your thumbs.

• 5

  Set the brake assembly over the brake rotor and insert the bolts. Tighten the bolts to be as tight as possible using the ratchet and sockets.

Completing the change

• 1

  Repeat the changing process for the other side of the Vue.

• 2

  Set the tires on the axles and screw on the lug nuts until the tires are fully seated on the hubs.

• 3

  Lift the front of the Vue using the floor jack. Remove the jack stands, then set the front of the Vue on the ground.

• 4

  Tighten the front lug nuts using the tire iron.