How to Change the Rear Disc Pads on a 2002 Ford Explorer

The 2002 Ford Explorer is offered in either two-wheel drive or four-wheel drive models and can feature either rear disc or rear drum braking systems. Rear disc brake systems use brake pads, which are wedged between the caliper and both sides of the brake disc (also known as a brake rotor) on each rear wheel. On braking demand, the caliper hydraulic pistons extend outward, and press the surface of the pads against the surface of the rotors to slow the vehicle down.

Instructions

1

Place the wheel wedge in front of one of the front tires after parking the 2002 Ford Explorer on level ground.

2

Open the hood, and suck out about 1/3 of the brake fluid from the master cylinder, and dispose of the fluid. Replace the cap to the master cylinder.

3

Loosen the wheel nuts on the rear tires. Do both sides, if using two jack stands to support the rear axle, or just loosen one side at a time if only using one jack stand.

4

Raise one side of the rear axle with the jack, and support the axle on a jack stand. Repeat the process for the other side, if using two jack stands.

5

Remove the loosened wheel nuts and tire assembly.

6

Locate the caliper bolts on the inside upper housing of the caliper, and remove them, using a hand wrench.

7

Pry the caliper and pads assembly off the brake disc, and use a length of mechanics wire to hang the caliper from the rear suspension.

8

Pry the outer brake pad retaining clips off the outer caliper housing, using the pry tool or screwdriver.

9

Compress the caliper piston with the inner pad still seated inside the piston (to protect the piston), using the caliper piston reset tool or C-clamp. Pull the inner pad and its retaining clip from the caliper piston once the piston is fully compressed.

10

Clean the mating surfaces of the caliper edges (top and bottom) and the caliper bridge edges with the metal brush, and apply a coating of the brake silicone grease to the cleaned surfaces.

11

Install the inner replacement brake pad first, by pressing the clip into the caliper piston. Gently pry the outer brake pad retaining clips onto the outer caliper housing. Remove the mechanics wire from the caliper, and place the caliper and pads assembly over the brake disc.

12

Replace the two caliper bolts, and tighten the bolts.

13

Replace the wheel assembly and wheel nuts, and tighten the wheel nuts. Replace the brake pads on the other side, if using two jack stands, or lower the Explorer to the ground. Repeat the same procedure for the other side, if using only one jack stand.

14

Tighten the lug nuts in a star pattern, using the torque ratchet set to 100 foot-pounds and a socket.

15

Pump the foot brake pedal several times, until it feels firm. Check the fluid level in the master cylinder. If necessary, top it off with clean, new brake fluid.