How to Replace Front Brakes 09-14 Ford F-150

Introduction

This tutorial will guide you through the process of replacing the front brakes on a 2009-2014 Ford F-150. Whether you're dealing with worn, squeaky, or fading brakes, this step-by-step guide will help you complete the job safely and effectively.

Step 1: Gather Your Tools and Parts

Before starting, make sure you have the following tools and parts ready:

• Pry Bar
• 13mm Socket
• 21mm Socket
• 1/2 Inch Breaker Bar
• 3/8 Inch Drive Ratchet
• Ratchet
• Socket Extensions
• Torque Wrench
• Anti-Seize Grease
• Brake Parts Cleaner
• Liquid Thread Locker
• Floor Jack
• Jack Stands
• Wire Brush

You can find the necessary brake pads and rotor kits at 1A Auto.

Step 2: Lift the Vehicle and Remove the Tire

1. Use a 21mm socket to loosen the lug nuts while the vehicle is on the ground.
2. Lift the vehicle using a floor jack and secure it with jack stands.
3. Remove the lug nuts completely and take off the tire. If the tire is stuck, reattach one lug nut loosely and tap it to break the seal.

Step 3: Open the Bleeder Screw

1. Before removing the caliper, open the brake bleeder screw. This will prevent damage to the ABS system by allowing fluid to escape as you push the caliper piston back.
2. If the bleeder screw is stuck, tap around it gently to help free it.

Step 4: Remove the Caliper

1. Use a 30mm socket to loosen the outer caliper mounting bolts.
2. Carefully pry the caliper away from the rotor using a pry bar.
3. Inspect the caliper piston and boots for any damage or wear.

Step 5: Push Back the Caliper Pistons

1. Use a ratcheting caliper tool to push back the pistons. Place one of the old brake pads against the piston for leverage.
2. Make sure the pistons move smoothly without any resistance, indicating they are not frozen.

Step 6: Remove the Caliper Bracket

1. Use a 21mm socket to remove the bolts connecting the caliper bracket to the knuckle.
2. Set the caliper bracket aside.

Step 7: Replace the Rotor

1. Remove the old rotor from the hub. If it’s stuck, you can use bolts to pry it off.
2. Clean the hub area using a wire brush to remove any rust or debris.
3. Apply a thin coat of anti-seize grease to the hub to prevent future rust buildup.
4. Install the new rotor onto the hub.

Step 8: Install New Caliper Hardware

1. Remove the old caliper hardware and install the new hardware kit.
2. Use a wire brush to clean the surfaces where the caliper hardware will sit.

Step 9: Reinstall the Caliper Bracket and Caliper

1. Reattach the caliper bracket using the 21mm bolts and apply a thin coat of liquid thread locker.
2. Torque the bolts to 184 foot-pounds.
3. Install the new brake pads into the caliper bracket, ensuring the inner and outer pads are placed correctly.
4. Slide the caliper back over the new pads and secure it with the mounting screws.

Step 10: Bleed the Brakes

1. Reopen the bleeder screw to allow any air to escape and gravity bleed the system until you see a steady stream of fluid.
2. Tighten the bleeder screw after bleeding.

Step 11: Reattach the Tire

1. Place the tire back onto the hub and hand-thread the lug nuts.
2. Lower the vehicle slightly so that the tire makes contact with the ground.
3. Torque the lug nuts to 150 foot-pounds in a star pattern.

Conclusion

You have successfully replaced the front brakes on your Ford F-150. Make sure to test the brakes in a safe area to ensure they are functioning properly before driving. For future maintenance, consider flushing the brake fluid every few years to maintain optimal performance. If you need additional parts or assistance, visit 1A Auto for quality auto parts and support.