How do I lubricant front brake calipers?

2008 CHEVROLET COBALT
136,425 MILES
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AZDANNO04
  • MEMBER
  • 348 POSTS
I’ve replaced front brake pads before but never the calipers. The guiding pins but never done the calipers.
Feb 10, 2023 at 6:48 PM
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JACOBANDNICKOLAS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
  • 110,194 POSTS
  • ASE Certified Mechanic
Hi,

As far as what to lubricate, the slid pins are the primary concern. Remove them from the caliper, clean both the slide pin and where they go with brake cleaner. Then lubricate the slide pins. Make sure the rubber boots are installed to prevent dirt from entering the slide pins. (See pic1)

Next, when you have the brake pads removed, there is metal hardware that attaches to the caliper mount, where the pads sit. Remove the steel hardware and take a file and clean the entire area where the hardware will cover. This area can rust. As a result, the rust presses against the hardware and causes the brake pads to seize. (See pic 2)

Here is a link you may find helpful:

https://www.2carpros.com/articles/brake-caliper-replacement

Let me know if this helps or if you have other questions.

Take care,

joe

See pics below.
Feb 10, 2023 at 10:09 PM
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