F-150 Front Brake Rotor and Pad Replacement

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through the process of replacing the front brake rotors and pads on a 2018 Ford F-150. This is a straightforward task that can be accomplished with common tools. Whether you're an experienced DIYer or a beginner, this guide will help you perform the brake replacement safely and effectively.

Step 1: Prepare Your Workspace

• Ensure you have the following tools and materials:
  • New brake pads (Ford Brake Pads BRF1899)
  • New rotors (Ford Rotor BRRF474)
  • Brake caliper hooks
  • Brake caliper compression tool
  • CRC brake caliper grease
  • Impact gun or socket wrench
• Safety first: wear gloves and eye protection.
• Park the vehicle on a flat surface and engage the parking brake.

Step 2: Lift the Vehicle

• Use a jack to lift the front of the F-150.
• Secure the vehicle with jack stands to ensure stability while you work.
• Remove the front wheel using an impact gun or lug wrench.

Step 3: Remove the Brake Caliper

• Locate the two caliper bolts (13mm) on the back of the caliper.
• Use the impact gun to remove these bolts. They may be tight, so ensure you apply sufficient force.
• Once removed, hang the caliper using a caliper hook to prevent stress on the brake line.

Step 4: Inspect and Remove Brake Pads

• Check the condition of the brake pads. Replace them even if they seem less worn than the rear pads, as it's good preventative maintenance.
• Slide the old brake pads out of the caliper bracket.

Step 5: Remove the Caliper Bracket

• Remove the caliper bracket bolts, which are typically torqued at 180+ foot-pounds.
• If the bolts are stuck, use a breaker bar for additional leverage.
• Carefully take off the caliper bracket and set it aside.

Step 6: Inspect and Replace the Caliper Bracket (if necessary)

• Check the condition of the caliper bracket. If corroded, consider replacing it.
• Clean any corrosion on the bracket or replace it with a new one if necessary.

Step 7: Prepare the New Brake Components

• Install new brake clips in the caliper bracket.
• Apply CRC brake caliper grease to the new caliper guide pins and insert them into the bracket.

Step 8: Compress the Caliper Pistons

• Use a brake caliper compression tool or a C-clamp to compress the caliper pistons.
• Ensure they are fully compressed to allow for the new thicker brake pads.

Step 9: Reassemble the Brake Components

• Reattach the caliper bracket to the steering knuckle and torque the bolts to 184 foot-pounds.
• Place the new rotors onto the hub.
• Slide the brake pads into the caliper bracket.

Step 10: Reattach the Caliper

• Carefully position the caliper over the new brake pads.
• Secure the caliper in place using the new caliper pin screws, checking the torque specifications in your service manual.

Step 11: Reinstall the Wheel

• Place the wheel back onto the hub and hand-tighten the lug nuts.
• Lower the vehicle off the jack stands and finish tightening the lug nuts in a crisscross pattern to ensure even pressure.

Conclusion

You have successfully replaced the front brake rotors and pads on your 2018 Ford F-150. Always remember to check your work and ensure everything is securely tightened. As a next step, consider testing your brakes in a safe area to ensure they are functioning correctly before returning to regular driving. Regular brake maintenance is crucial for safe vehicle operation, so keep an eye on your brake performance and plan for future inspections.