how to replace the brake pads on my Ford Mustang S550 (2015-2023)

Solution

1. Preparation

• Gather the necessary tools and parts.
• Ensure the vehicle is on a flat, stable surface.
• Use wheel chocks to prevent the vehicle from rolling.
• Loosen the lug nuts on the front or rear wheels (depending on which pads are being replaced).

2. Lift the Vehicle

• Use a hydraulic jack to lift the vehicle.
• Secure the vehicle with jack stands.
• Remove the wheel by taking off the lug nuts completely.

3. Remove the Brake Caliper

• Locate the caliper mounting bolts; typically, there are two.
• Using a socket wrench, remove the caliper bolts. (Torque specifications are often around 23-30 lb-ft, but consult the service manual for specifics.)
• Carefully slide the caliper off the brake rotor and suspend it using a bungee cord or rope to avoid straining the brake line.

4. Remove Old Brake Pads

• Remove the old brake pads from the caliper bracket. Note their orientation for installation of new pads.
• Inspect the caliper bracket and clean any debris or rust using a wire brush.

5. Install New Brake Pads

• Apply a small amount of brake grease on the back of the new pads to prevent noise.
• Position the new brake pads into the caliper bracket in the same orientation as the old pads.

6. Reinstall the Brake Caliper

• Compress the caliper piston using a C-clamp or brake caliper tool to create space for the new pads.
• Slide the caliper back over the new pads and secure it by tightening the caliper mounting bolts to the specified torque.

7. Reinstall the Wheel

• Place the wheel back onto the hub.
• Hand-tighten the lug nuts, then use a torque wrench to tighten them to the manufacturer’s specifications (usually around 100-150 lb-ft).

8. Lower the Vehicle

• Remove the jack stands and lower the vehicle with the hydraulic jack.
• Perform a final check on all bolts and lug nuts.