2003 Pontiac Vibe Brake Service (ONLINE REPAIR MANUALS)

When working on or around brake assemblies, care must be taken to prevent breathing asbestos dust, as many manufacturers incorporate asbestos fibers in the production of brake linings. During routine service operations the amount of asbestos dust from brake lining wear is at a low level due to a chemical breakdown during use, and a few precautions will minimize exposure.

• Do not sand or grind brake linings unless suitable local exhaust ventilation equipment is used to prevent excessive asbestos exposure.
• Wear a suitable respirator approved for asbestos dust use during all repair proced...

When troubleshooting the hydraulic brake system, perform the following inspections.

Master Cylinder Internal Fluid Leakage Check

Start engine and depress the brake pedal. If the pedal gradually falls under constant pressure, the hydraulic system may be leaking. Raise the vehicle on a lift and inspect all tubing lines and backing plates for signs of leakage. It may be required to lift or remove the carpeting or floor mats to inspect for boost...

Two basic types of power assist mechanisms are used: vacuum assist diaphragm assemblies, which use engine vacuum or, in some cases vacuum pressure developed by an external vacuum pump. The second type is a hydraulic pressure assist mechanism, which use pressure developed by an external pump (usually the power steering pump). Both systems act to increase the force exerted on the master cylinder piston by the operator. This in turn increases the hydraulic pressure delivered to the wheel cylinders while decreasing driver effort required to obtain acceptable stopping performance.

Vac...

Removal

Replace brake pads on one wheel at a time to prevent opposite side caliper piston from being forced out of bore.

• Remove caliper as outlined under "Caliper Service," leaving brake hose connected, and secure caliper aside.
• Remove anti-rattle clips, then the brake pads, Fig. .
• Remove pad wear indicator plates and anti-squeal shims.
• Remove support plates.

Installation

• Install new support plates on caliper mou...

Service Brake

• Raise and support vehicle.
• Mark relationship of wheel to axle, then remove wheel and tire assembly.
• Remove brake drum. If drum is difficult to remove, proceed as follows:
• Ensure parking brake is released.
• Back off parking brake cable adjustment.
• Remove access hole plug from backing plate, insert screwdriver through hole and push parking brake lever off its stop.
• Insert punch through hole in splash shield, Fig. , tap on punch to loosen drum, then remove drum.
• Measure inside diameter of drum using tool Nos. J-21177-A or J-22364-01, or their equivalents.
• Adjust by turning star whe...

Master Cylinder

• On Vibe models, remove air filer hose clamp and hose from throttle body.
• On all models, disconnect fluid level sensor retainer and electrical connector.
• Drain master cylinder reservoir brake fluid into suita...