How To Change Ford Brake Pads

Knowing how to change Ford brake pads is a key maintenance task for keeping your vehicle’s braking system in top condition. While it’s always advisable to have this work done by a certified technician, understanding the basic process can help you make informed decisions when it comes to your vehicle’s care. This article provides a straightforward guide on how to replace the brake pads on a Ford vehicle.

Tools and Preparation Needed

Before beginning the brake pad replacement, it’s crucial to gather the necessary tools and materials. You’ll need a car jack, jack stands, a lug wrench, a socket wrench set, a brake caliper tool, and new brake pads designed for your specific Ford model. Additionally, having a brake cleaner and some anti-squeal lubricant will make the process smoother.

Start by parking your Ford car on a flat, level surface. This makes sure that the parking brake is engaged to prevent any movement during the replacement. It’s also a good idea to wear safety gear, such as gloves and goggles, to protect yourself from dirt, dust, and other debris.

Lifting the Vehicle and Removing the Wheel

To change the brake pads, the first step is to lift the Ford using the car jack. Position the jack under the vehicle’s recommended lift points (typically located on the frame or near the wheels) and lift the car high enough to remove the wheel. Once the car is elevated, secure it with jack stands to make sure it remains stable during the entire process.

Use a lug wrench to remove the wheel bolts and take off the wheel. With the wheel removed, you’ll gain access to the brake system, including the brake caliper, rotor, and pads.

Removing the Brake Caliper

Next, you need to remove the brake caliper, which holds the brake pads in place. Start by locating the caliper bolts, which are usually on the back of the caliper. Use a socket wrench to remove these bolts, guaranteeing that you don’t lose them as you’ll need them for reinstallation.

Once the bolts are removed, carefully slide the caliper off the rotor. Be sure to support the caliper as you remove it, as it can be heavy. Never allow the caliper to hang from the brake line, as this could cause damage to the line. Instead, use a piece of wire or a caliper hook to suspend it from the suspension or frame.

Removing the Old Brake Pads

With the caliper removed, you can now access the old brake pads. Slide them out of the caliper bracket. In some cases, the pads may be tightly wedged into place due to rust or debris. If this happens, gently tap them with a rubber mallet to loosen them.

Take note of the condition of the old brake pads. If the brake pad material is worn down to less than a quarter of an inch, it’s time to replace it. Excessive wear can compromise your braking ability, so it’s critical to replace worn pads before they cause more serious issues.

Installing the New Brake Pads

Now it’s time to install the new brake pads. Place the new pads into the caliper bracket. This guarantees they are positioned correctly. If your Ford model uses clips, make sure these are installed before inserting the pads. It’s important to apply anti-squeal lubricant to the edges of the brake pads, which will help reduce noise during braking.

After the new pads are in place, use the brake caliper tool to compress the caliper piston. This will create enough space to fit the caliper back over the new pads. Be sure to do this slowly and carefully, as over-compressing the piston can cause damage.

Reassembling the Brake System

Once the new brake pads are in place and the caliper is securely mounted, it’s time to reattach the wheel. Place the wheel back onto the wheel hub, aligning it with the lug bolts. Use a lug wrench to tighten the bolts, but do not fully tighten them until the vehicle is lowered back to the ground.

Lower the Ford back down carefully using the car jack, and once it’s stable on the ground, finish tightening the lug bolts in a criss-cross pattern to secure even pressure.

Test and Verify the Brakes

Before hitting the road, it’s key to check that everything is functioning correctly. Start the car and gently press the brake pedal. It’s normal for the pedal to feel firm after replacing the brake pads, but if it feels soft or spongy, there may be air in the brake lines, and further adjustments may be necessary. Drive slowly and test the brakes at low speed to verify proper braking performance.

Changing brake pads is a relatively straightforward process, but it requires precision and attention to detail. If you’re not familiar with the procedure or lack the necessary tools, it’s recommended to consult with a professional Ford service center. Your Ford’s braking system is vital for your safety on the road, and proper maintenance is key to guaranteeing it performs optimally.