my Ford Explorer's front brakes squeak, what should I do

Solution

1. Preparation

• Gather tools and parts needed.
• Ensure safety by parking the vehicle on a flat surface and engaging the parking brake.

2. Remove Wheel

• Loosen lug nuts using a lug wrench.
• Elevate the vehicle using a jack and secure with jack stands.
• Remove the lug nuts completely and take off the wheel.

3. Inspect Brake Components

• Visual inspection of brake pads: Replace if the friction material is less than 1/8 inch.
• Check the rotors: If warped or scored, they should be resurfaced or replaced.
• Inspect the caliper: Ensure it moves freely and check for any leaks or damage.

4. Replace Brake Pads (if necessary)

• Remove the caliper bolts using a socket set.
• Carefully slide the caliper off the rotor and suspend it using a bungee cord.
• Remove the old brake pads from the caliper bracket.
• Install new brake pads, ensuring they are oriented correctly.

5. Reassemble Components

• Reattach the caliper over the new brake pads, tightening the caliper bolts to manufacturer specifications (usually 20-25 ft-lbs).
• Replace the wheel and hand-tighten the lug nuts.
• Lower the vehicle back to the ground and fully tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern.

6. Test Brakes

• Pump the brake pedal a few times to seat the pads against the rotor.
• Test drive the vehicle at low speeds to ensure proper function and listen for any remaining noises.