Tools needed for front brake repair on 2006 cobalt

Check this procedure about how to Replace Brake Pads....

Parts:
1. Brake Pad Set

Tools:
1. C-Clamp
2. Flat Head Screwdriver
3. Jack Stand Set
4. 3/8 in. Drive Ratchet
5. Combination Wrench Set
6. Tire Iron
7. Socket Set
8. 1/4 in. Drive Torque Wrench
9. Dial Indicator

Supplies:
1. Brake Cleaner
2. Brake Lubricant

Steps:
Step 1 Secure your vehicle on a level surface, making sure your car will not roll or lean too much when jacked up.
o Tip: Safety Tip:Always wear safety glasses when working on your vehicle. Wear other personal protective equipment (PPE) when necessary, for example latex gloves or safety shoes.

Step 2 Remove the cap from the brake master cylinder. Using a turkey baster, remove a quarter of the brake fluid from the master cylinder. Lift up the front of your vehicle using a floor jack.
o Tip: Using an aftermarket floor jack, instead of the original equipment (OE) jack, can make the job easier and safer. Verify the condition of the floor jack before use.

Step 3 Secure the vehicle with jack stands on both sides for safety before starting any work. The pinch welds and the frame are the two best locations. Do not rely on the jack to hold the vehicle up while working.
o Tip: Try to find a flat, level, and strong surface to put the jack stands.

Step 4 Remove the front wheels by removing the lugs nuts that are holding them on. To do this you will need to find the correct size socket and large ratchet or tire iron and turn them counter clockwise. If your vehicle is equipped with hub caps (plastic covers over the wheels), these will need to be removed to access the lug nuts.
o Tip: It is a good idea to try and break the lug nuts free before you jack the wheels off the ground. This way they you will not spin the front wheels or put stress on the transaxle.
o Tip: Lug nuts fasten the wheel to the hub and may be on very tight. To gain more leverage, use a breaker bar to loosen the nuts.

Step 5 Inspect the brake rotors for scoring, grooves, cracks and discoloration.

Step 6 Remove the brake caliper mounting bolts.

Step 7 Slide the brake caliper off of the brake rotor.
o Tip: If the brake rotors are worn and there is a big lip preventing the brake caliper from sliding off easily, gently pry one pad back into the brake caliper to clear the lip and make removal easier.

Step 8 Support the brake caliper up and away from the working area. Make sure you do not kink or pinch any brake lines. Do not disconnect the brake line.
o Tip: Use a bungee cord to secure the brake caliper out of the way and hang it on the suspension spring.

Step 9 Remove the brake pads from brake caliper.

Step 10 Compress caliper piston using a C-clamp.

Step 11 Install the new brake pads in the brake caliper.

Step 12 Reinstall the brake caliper.

Step 13 Torque the brake caliper mounting bolts to manufacturer’s specifications. Repeat for other side.

Step 14 Install wheels and torque to manufacturer’s specifications.

Step 15 Refill the brake fluid in the brake master cylinder and reinstall the cap.

Step 16 Road test vehicle, break in new pads.
o Tip: To break in pads and rotors refer to manufacturers recommendations. Some companies have different procedures for pad and rotor break in.


Hope this help (remember rated this help), good luck.

Instead of replacing your brakes yourself, you might be smarter to take it into an automotive shop. That is what I would want to do for my car so I don't make anything worse. Brakes can be a hassle, and I want to leave it to the pros to fix up for me. http://www.albanycreekauto.com.au/services/brake-service/