In 2004 Chevrolet introduced the Aveo to replace the Metro. The vehicle uses an anti-lock braking system with drum brakes in the rear. Rear brakes only provide 30 to 40 percent of a vehicle’s stopping power and thus don’t have to be replaced as often. You just need a general knowledge of cars to change Aveo brake shoes yourself. Replacement brake shoes are available locally at auto parts stores.
Using a wrench loosen the rear wheel lock nuts.
Raise the vehicle using a floor jack. Place jack stands under the car to support it.
Remove the lock nuts and wheels from the vehicle.
Remove the axle nut with a wrench and pipe. Pull the brake drum off the axle. If the drum does not come off easily, use a hammer to tap on the sides of the drum to loosen the rust or corrosion holding it in place.
Loosen the return spring from the main brake shoe clamps with a wrench and pipe. Unplug the upper spring union connection with pliers.
Remove the upper return spring and adjuster with pliers. Use pliers to disconnect the return spring from the rear brake shoe. Unhook the parking brake cable to disconnect it.
Remove the guide shoe from the rear backing plate. Using pliers, disconnect the lower return spring.
Clean the drum and parts with brake parts cleaner and a rag. Apply a thin coat of brake adjuster grease.
Install the brake shoe and lining. Using pliers install the spring clips, washer and hook.
Connect the parking brake cable to the lever and use pliers to hook it into the slot to secure it. Install the lower return spring with pliers by pulling it into place.
Install the main brake shoe and cover. Lock the brake shoe in place with the spring clips, washer and pin. Using pliers, attach the lower return spring to the main brake shoe by pulling it into place. Turn the adjusting bolt and place it in the slot between the two brake shoes.
Replace the upper brake shoe spring. This will provide tension for the return spring. Install the return spring by pulling it into place with the pliers.
Reinstall the brake drum. Tighten the axle nut with the wrench and pipe.
Repeat the steps on the opposite wheel.
Place the wheels on the vehicle and loosely place the nuts on the wheel bolts.
Raise the vehicle with the jack and remove the jack stands from the bottom of the vehicle.
Tighten the wheel lock nuts using the appropriate wrench.
Pump the brakes several times to seat the brake shoes in place against the brake drum walls.
Tips
Always test drive the vehicle to ensure proper brake shoe installation.
It is recommended to bleed the brake system after replacing parts.