As a responsible vehicle owner, it’s essential to stay on top of regular maintenance tasks to ensure your car runs smoothly and safely. One critical component that requires periodic attention is the brake pads. Worn-out brake pads can lead to reduced stopping power, increased wear on other brake components, and even accidents. If you own a 2017 Chevy Silverado, learning how to change brake pads is a crucial skill to have.
Overview of the Process
Changing brake pads on your 2017 Chevy Silverado may seem like a daunting task, but it’s actually a relatively straightforward process that you can accomplish with basic tools and some mechanical aptitude. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the step-by-step process of replacing your brake pads, including preparing your vehicle, removing the old pads, and installing the new ones.
What You’ll Need
Before you begin, make sure you have the following items:
- New brake pads specifically designed for your 2017 Chevy Silverado
- C-Clamps or piston compressor
- Brake lubricant
- Wheel chocks
- Jack stands
- A socket set or wrench set
With these tools and a bit of patience, you’ll be able to replace your brake pads and get back on the road with confidence.
How to Change Brake Pads on 2017 Chevy Silverado
Changing the brake pads on your 2017 Chevy Silverado is a crucial maintenance task that ensures your vehicle’s safety on the road. Worn-out brake pads can lead to reduced stopping power, increased wear on other brake components, and even accidents. In this article, we will guide you through the step-by-step process of changing the brake pads on your 2017 Chevy Silverado.
Important Safety Precautions
Before starting the brake pad replacement process, make sure to take the following safety precautions:
- Wear protective gloves and safety glasses to prevent injury from sharp edges and debris.
- Jack up the vehicle on a level surface and use jack stands for added stability.
- Make sure the vehicle is in park (automatic) or first gear (manual) and apply the parking brake.
- Never work on a vehicle that is supported only by a jack.
- Consult your owner’s manual or a repair manual for specific instructions and precautions.
Gather the Necessary Tools and Materials
To change the brake pads on your 2017 Chevy Silverado, you will need the following tools and materials:
| Tool/Material | Description |
|---|---|
| Brake pad wear gauge | Used to measure the thickness of the brake pads |
| C-clamps | Used to compress the brake caliper piston |
| Brake cleaner | Used to clean the brake components |
| New brake pads | Replacement brake pads for your 2017 Chevy Silverado |
| Brake lubricant | Used to lubricate the brake pad wear sensors |
| Wheel chocks | Used to prevent the vehicle from rolling |
| Jack and jack stands | Used to lift and support the vehicle |
Remove the Wheels and Brake Caliper
To access the brake pads, you need to remove the wheels and brake caliper. Follow these steps:
Loosen the lug nuts on the wheel using a lug wrench, but do not remove them yet.
Raise the vehicle using a jack and support it with jack stands.
Remove the lug nuts and flat the wheel.
Use a wrench to loosen the brake caliper bolts, then remove them and slide the caliper off the rotor.
Use a piece of wire or a rubber band to suspend the caliper out of the way. (See Also: Who Sells Motorcraft Brake Pads)
Remove the Old Brake Pads
Now that you have access to the brake pads, follow these steps to remove them:
Use a screwdriver to release the brake pad wear sensor wire from the brake pad.
Remove the brake pad retaining clips or springs.
Slide the old brake pads out of the brake caliper.
Use a brake cleaner to clean the brake caliper and rotor.
Install the New Brake Pads
Follow these steps to install the new brake pads:
Apply a small amount of brake lubricant to the back of the new brake pads.
Slide the new brake pads into the brake caliper, making sure they are properly seated.
Reinstall the brake pad retaining clips or springs.
Reconnect the brake pad wear sensor wire to the new brake pad.
Compress the Brake Caliper Piston
To compress the brake caliper piston, follow these steps: (See Also: Does Brake Fluid Circulate)
Use C-clamps to compress the piston, making sure it is fully seated.
Check the brake caliper piston for any signs of damage or corrosion.
Reinstall the Brake Caliper and Wheel
Follow these steps to reinstall the brake caliper and wheel:
Slide the brake caliper back over the rotor, making sure it is properly aligned.
Reinstall the brake caliper bolts and tighten them in a star pattern.
Reinstall the wheel and tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern.
Bleed the Brake System
After changing the brake pads, it is essential to bleed the brake system to remove any air that may have entered the lines. Follow these steps:
Use a brake bleeding kit to connect to the brake caliper.
Pump the brake pedal several times to remove any air from the system.
Check the brake fluid level and top it off as needed.
Test the Brakes
Finally, test the brakes to ensure they are functioning properly:
Drive the vehicle slowly and press the brake pedal to test the brakes. (See Also: Is Brake Judder Dangerous)
Check for any unusual noises, vibrations, or spongy brake pedal feel.
Conclusion
Changing the brake pads on your 2017 Chevy Silverado is a relatively straightforward process that can be done at home with the right tools and materials. Remember to always follow proper safety precautions and consult your owner’s manual or a repair manual for specific instructions. By following the steps outlined in this article, you can ensure your vehicle’s safety on the road and prevent costly repairs down the line.
Recap
In this article, we covered the step-by-step process of changing the brake pads on a 2017 Chevy Silverado. We discussed the importance of safety precautions, gathering the necessary tools and materials, removing the wheels and brake caliper, removing the old brake pads, installing the new brake pads, compressing the brake caliper piston, reinstalling the brake caliper and wheel, bleeding the brake system, and testing the brakes. By following these steps, you can ensure your vehicle’s safety and performance on the road.
Frequently Asked Questions: How to Change Brake Pads on 2017 Chevy Silverado
What tools do I need to change the brake pads on my 2017 Chevy Silverado?
You’ll need a few specialized tools to change the brake pads on your 2017 Chevy Silverado, including a lug wrench, a C-clamp, and a piston compressor. You may also want to have a set of gloves and safety glasses on hand to protect yourself from sharp edges and debris. Additionally, it’s a good idea to consult your owner’s manual or a repair manual for specific instructions and recommendations.
How do I know when it’s time to change my brake pads?
There are a few signs that indicate it’s time to change your brake pads. If you hear a squealing or grinding noise when you press the brake pedal, it’s likely that your brake pads are worn out. You can also visually inspect your brake pads by looking through the wheel spokes. If you see less than 1/8 inch of brake pad material, it’s time to replace them. Finally, if your brake pedal feels spongy or soft, it may be a sign that your brake pads are worn out.
Can I change my brake pads myself, or do I need to take it to a mechanic?
If you’re comfortable with DIY car repairs and have some experience working with brakes, you can change your brake pads yourself. However, if you’re not comfortable with the process or don’t have experience with brake repairs, it’s recommended that you take your truck to a qualified mechanic. Changing brake pads can be a complex process, and improper installation can lead to safety issues.
How long does it take to change the brake pads on a 2017 Chevy Silverado?
The time it takes to change the brake pads on a 2017 Chevy Silverado can vary depending on your level of experience and the complexity of the job. On average, it can take around 2-3 hours to change the brake pads on one axle, assuming you have some experience with brake repairs. If you’re doing it for the first time, it may take longer. It’s also important to factor in the time it takes to bleed the brake system, which can add an additional hour to the process.
Do I need to change my brake rotors when I change my brake pads?
Not always. If your brake rotors are in good condition and show no signs of excessive wear, you can reuse them. However, if your rotors are warped, scored, or have excessive wear, it’s recommended that you replace them when you change your brake pads. Worn-out brake rotors can lead to uneven braking and reduce the effectiveness of your new brake pads. Consult your owner’s manual or a repair manual for specific guidance on inspecting and replacing brake rotors.
