Replacement bolts - Canada

[prb_nearnorth]

I need to replace one of my caliper bracket bolts on a 2003 Chev Malibu base model. The Canadian dealer prices are ridiculous and I was wondering if anyone knows of a source for replacement bolts. I believe that these automotive bolts are a harder grade. I guess the first question is where would I find the specs on a particular bolt, and secondly where would I purchase one. Thanks for your assistance.

[MagicRat]

You are referring to the bolts that hold the caliper bracket to the steering knuckle, right?

You are correct in that most fasteners used on cars are made to a higher standard than those found in a regular hardware store.

I assume they are metric bolts. Here's a simple guide that shows you the relative strength of these bolts, as indicated by the numbers or marks on the bolt head:http://www.engineeringtoolbox.com/st...es-d_1428.html

Chances are, a Canadian Tire or Home Depot may have a similar high-grade bolt, in the correct size and length, from the regular stock. Brafasco has a huge range of fasteners and might be able to match it up. :http://www.brafasco.com/locations.asp

However, its more likely the original bolt has a head and/or shank that's a specific size, for your purpose. It's best to get the original bolt, either couch up the money at the dealer, or go to a wrecking yard /auto dismantlers and get a couple of these bolts off a similar Malibu
Look here:http://www.yellowpages.ca/search/si/.../Huntsville+ON

[shadows]

brake caliper mounting bolts- depending on who did the work, and substitue bolts are used- and the vehicle is in an accident where braking issues are looked at- always has been advised to not modify anything in the braking system unless you are a repair business with basic liability insurance-

As a previous repair shop owner- brake mounting bolts and hardware- don't substitute- use original equipment or OEM replacement only- and as a do it yourselfer- think seriously- before you decided the correct bolts are not needed because they cost a bit

only my opinion- I had cause to have a suspected vehicle towed in to my shop that was involved in an accident where braking was a possible issue- it's something that can make one sit up and take notice-

[shorod]

Have you considered a mail order place for the bolts? The prices should be better than a local dealer, shipping can be quick, and you'll get an application-specific part. There are various websites that sell GM OEM parts as well as other popular sites that will sell you the correct bolt without it coming directly from a GM box.

I'm not sure if the Canadian Malibu is different from the US Malibu, but there were a ton of them on the roads around here (as well as a few cars that share the same platform) so I'm sure there will be plenty to choose from in local salvage yards as well if you need the correct part in a hurry.

-Rod

[danielsatur]

Examples -
Get the part #, than Google '' cheap Part #''
Google ''Seal by #''
Google ''bearing by part #''
Google ''Brand part #''
Google ''Image''
Smart phone Bar code reader app!

All OEM parts have specs, and all name brands make OEM parts.
The trick is getting the part # with Google Image, forums, and Auto part stores.

It's all about the brand + rubber stamp, I have seen German parts and cars that are made in USA.