Replacing the rear brakes on a Malibu is straightforward, but you need the right sockets, torque specs, and technique. Follow this guide to do it safely.
- Always support with jack stands, never just the jack
- Inspect caliper boots and hoses—replace if torn or leaking
- Proper torque and angle‑turns prevent hardware failure
🔧 Tools & Socket Sizes You'll Need
| Part | Tool/Socket Size | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Wheel Lug Nuts | 22mm Deep Socket | Breaker bar or impact ready |
| Caliper Slider Bolts | 13mm Socket | Hold caliper—inspect boots |
| Caliper Bracket Bolts | 18mm Socket | Tight—use breaker if needed |
| Rotor Retaining Screw | T30 Torx Bit | Small screw—won’t be on all models |
| Other Essentials | — | Pry bar, wire brush, brake grease, piston turning tool |
🛑 Step‑by‑Step: Rear Brake Job on a Chevy Malibu (2013–2015)
1. Break the Lug Nuts Loose
Use a 22mm deep socket with a breaker bar or impact to break lug nuts loose before jacking up.
2. Jack Up & Secure
Lift at the factory point; place jack stands under solid frame rails.
3. Remove Wheel
Finish removing nuts and take off the wheel.
4. Remove Caliper Slider Bolts (13mm)
Take out the two 13 mm bolts. Pry caliper open, inspect boots and hoses for damage, then hang caliper safely.
5. Remove Caliper Bracket (18mm)
Remove the bracket bolts with an 18 mm socket.
6. Remove Rotor (T30)
Remove the small rotor screw with a T30 bit and slide the rotor off. Tap if stuck.
7. Prep New Parts
- Wire‑brush bracket and hub mating surfaces
- Clean rotors and apply brake grease to slider pins and pad ears
- Position caliper clips correctly
8. Retract Caliper Piston
Use a dedicated turning tool: push in while turning counter‑clockwise until fully retracted.
9. Reinstall & Torque
- Place rotor on hub
- Reinstall bracket bolts: torque to 74 ft‑lb + 60° turn
- Insert pads and clips
- Reinstall slider bolts: torque 20 ft‑lb + 60° turn; ensure wear indicator is inside facing down
10. Reinstall Wheel & Torque
Hand‑tighten lug nuts, lower car, then torque to 100 ft‑lb in a star pattern.
11. Pump Brakes Before Driving
Pump the pedal until firm to seat the pads.
🔧 Quick Pro Tips
- Always do both sides together for even braking
- If pedal feels soft afterward, bleed the brake system
- Check parking brake operation on rear calipers
👨🏾🔧 Need Professional Help?
I’ll come to you—driveway or parking lot—and handle your brake job quickly and correctly.
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📞 (605) 376-2130
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