How to Replace Front Brakes 06-10 Ford Explorer

Difficulty: Advanced · About 90 min · Ford Explorer

Replace front brake pads and rotors on a 2006–2010 Ford Explorer and check pedal pressure and braking before driving.

Steps

1. Raise the vehicle and remove the wheel

   Loosen lug nuts slightly while grounded, chock the rear wheels, raise the front at approved points, and support it securely. Remove the wheel and inspect the caliper, hose, and rotor for leaks or damage.

2. Remove the caliper and rotor

   Remove the caliper fasteners and hang the caliper so its hose is not strained. Remove the pads, bracket bolts, and rotor, noting the order of clips and shims for reassembly.

3. Prepare and install the new rotor

   Clean the hub face and bracket surfaces, inspect slide pins and boots, and apply brake-safe lubricant only to specified contact points. Install the replacement rotor and secure the caliper bracket with its fasteners tightened to vehicle specification.

4. Fit pads and reinstall the caliper

   Install the new pads in their correct positions and retract the piston slowly while monitoring brake fluid level. Seat the caliper over the pads and tighten its fasteners to the vehicle specification, then reinstall the wheel and lower the vehicle.

5. Restore pedal pressure and test

   Pump the brake pedal until firm and verify fluid level before moving the vehicle. Perform a low speed test in a safe area and stop if the pedal is soft, the vehicle pulls, or any leak appears.

Check your vehicle’s repair manual for exact specifications and fit.