Like many other high-powered cars, the Pontiac Grand Am may have disc brakes in the front and rear. Disc brakes provide more efficient stopping power than drum brakes. If your Grand Am has rear disc brakes, read further to learn how to replace them.
Remove approximately two-thirds of the brake fluid from the master cylinder reservoir to prevent overflow. Use a syringe or suction gun to siphon the brake fluid. Empty it into an approved sealed container and dispose of it according to your state's regulations.
Raise the Pontiac Grand Am off the ground with a car jack. Support the vehicle on all sides with jack stands. Keep children and animals away from the car while replacing the rear disc brakes.
Loosen the lug nuts with a torque wrench. Remove the wheels and set them aside face up to prevent damage.
Disconnect the caliper from the steering knuckle and hang it from the Grand Am's frame with mechanical wire. Push on the outer edge of the outboard brake pad to release the dowels and remove the brake pad from the bottom of the caliper. Pull the inboard brake pads out of the caliper.
Install the inboard brake pad in the caliper by engaging the brake pad's spring clip onto the caliper piston. Fasten the outboard brake pad into the end of the caliper by snapping the mounting dowels into place.
Lay the caliper on the steering knuckle and position it over the rotor. Replace the mounting bolts and sleeves then torque them to 23 feet or pounds.
Replace the rear wheels on the Pontiac Grand Am. Lower the car to the ground. Pump the brake pedal to seat the brake pads. Replace the brake fluid to bring it up to the proper level.
