Quick answer: Brake Pad Replacement on a 2019–2024 GMC Sierra 1500 is rated Advanced and takes about 1-3 hours. You'll need 3 tools for this job, and parts cost about $205. This guide walks you through the full job step by step, including the mistakes to avoid.
| Part Name |
Part Number |
Price |
Buy |
| Front or rear brake pad set for 2019-2024 GMC Sierra; verify axle, brake package, and VIN fitment |
— |
$180.00 |
|
| Replacement pad hardware or wear sensor only if the kit requires it |
— |
$25.00 |
|
About prices: shown prices are typical retail averages and change frequently; cheaper alternatives may be available. Confirm the current price before buying.
💡 Pro tip: Order all parts at once to save on shipping
Step-by-Step Instructions
Follow these steps carefully
1
Confirm axle, parts, and brake condition
Ordering the wrong package's pads is the classic Sierra brake mistake. Inspect the abutment clips and slide-pin boots, and measure rotor thickness against the stamped minimum.
🔧 Mechanic's note — Ray Delgado
Photograph that RPO label before you order — 'I'll remember it' has cost more people more money than any other sentence in brake work. The wrong pads don't fit at all, so at least the mistake shows up fast.
2
Lift and secure the vehicle
This is a heavy full-size truck - use a jack and stands rated with plenty of margin. Remove the wheel, then check the brake fluid reservoir: retracting twin 51mm pistons pushes a lot of fluid back, so siphon the reservoir down from MAX now.
3
Remove the old pads and abutment clips
Support it with a wire hook from the frame or spring - never let a truck caliper hang by the brake hose. Slide the old pads and abutment clips out of the bracket.
4
Install pads and hardware
Retract both pistons evenly using an old pad across the piston faces with a C-clamp or spreader, and watch the reservoir level as fluid returns. Fit the new pads into the bracket.
5
Torque and pump
Reinstall the wheel and torque the lug nuts in a star pattern to 140 ft-lb. Pump the brake pedal until firm before driving - don't move the truck on a soft pedal.
All Done!
Test your repair before closing everything up. If something doesn't work right, double-check your steps.
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- • Changing only one pad or mixing pad sets on an axle
- • Working under a vehicle supported only by a jack
- • Letting the caliper hang from the brake hose
- • Forcing a seized piston or ignoring a leaking caliper
- • Skipping final lug and caliper torque or the bedding procedure
