Replacing the brake pads on a Ford Explorer is an important maintenance procedure that helps maintain safe braking performance, reduces rotor wear, and prevents brake noise or vibration. Whether you are performing a front brake pad replacement or rear brake service, using the correct tools and following proper installation procedures is essential.
Tools and Materials Needed
Before starting the brake pad replacement, prepare the following tools and parts:
New brake pads
Brake cleaner
Jack and jack stands
Lug wrench
Socket and ratchet set
C-clamp or brake caliper tool
Torque wrench
Flat screwdriver
Brake grease
Gloves and safety glasses
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Step 1: Park and Secure the Vehicle
Park the Ford Explorer on a flat surface and engage the parking brake. Place wheel chocks behind the rear wheels for additional safety. Slightly loosen the lug nuts before lifting the vehicle.
Use a hydraulic jack to raise the vehicle and securely support it with jack stands. Remove the wheel completely to access the brake assembly.
Step 2: Inspect the Brake Components
Before removing the old pads, inspect the entire brake system carefully. Check the brake rotor surface for grooves, excessive rust, or heat spots. Also inspect the brake caliper, slide pins, brake hoses, and hardware clips.
If the rotors are severely worn or below minimum thickness, replacing or resurfacing them is recommended during the brake pad service.
Step 3: Remove the Brake Caliper
Locate the caliper mounting bolts on the back side of the brake caliper. Remove the bolts using the correct socket size.
Carefully slide the caliper away from the rotor. Do not allow the caliper to hang by the brake hose. Use a hook or zip tie to support it safely.
Remove the old brake pads from the caliper bracket.
Step 4: Compress the Caliper Piston
Before installing the new brake pads, the caliper piston must be compressed back into the caliper housing.
Use a C-clamp or brake piston tool to slowly push the piston inward. Open the brake fluid reservoir cap slightly if necessary to relieve pressure. Compress the piston carefully and evenly to avoid damaging the brake system.
For electronic parking brake models, some rear brake systems may require service mode activation before piston compression.
Step 5: Install the New Brake Pads
Apply a thin layer of brake grease to the pad backing plates and contact points where the pads touch the hardware. Do not apply grease to the friction surface.
Install the new brake pads into the caliper bracket. Ensure the pads fit securely and move smoothly within the hardware clips.
This step is critical in a proper Ford Explorer front brake pad replacement because incorrect pad positioning can cause uneven wear or brake noise.
Step 6: Reinstall the Caliper
Position the caliper over the new brake pads and rotor. Reinstall the caliper bolts and tighten them to the manufacturer’s torque specification using a torque wrench.
Double-check that all hardware is properly secured.
Step 7: Reinstall the Wheel
Place the wheel back onto the hub and hand-tighten the lug nuts. Lower the vehicle carefully to the ground.
Use a torque wrench to tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern to the recommended torque specification.
Step 8: Pump the Brake Pedal
Before driving, pump the brake pedal several times until it becomes firm. This allows the caliper pistons to seat correctly against the new brake pads.
Check the brake fluid level and add fluid if necessary.
Step 9: Perform a Brake Test
Start the vehicle and test the brakes at low speed in a safe area. Listen for abnormal noises and confirm smooth braking performance.
New brake pads usually require a bedding-in process to achieve optimal braking efficiency. Avoid aggressive braking during the first 200–300 miles.
Common Symptoms of Worn Brake Pads
Signs that indicate brake pad replacement may be necessary include:
Squealing or grinding noises
Increased stopping distance
Brake warning light
Steering vibration during braking
Uneven brake response
Visible thin brake pad material
Ignoring worn brake pads can damage the brake rotors and increase repair costs.
Professional Maintenance Tips
For long brake system life on a Ford Explorer:
Inspect brake pads every oil change
Replace brake hardware when necessary
Use high-quality ceramic or semi-metallic pads
Clean and lubricate slide pins regularly
Replace rotors if excessive wear is present
Proper brake maintenance improves driving safety, braking stability, and overall vehicle reliability.