How Do I Change a Brake Pad on a 1999 Ford Mustang?

Considering what repair shops typically charge for labor and parts, the average weekend mechanic may want to tackle the job of replacing the brake pads himself on his 1999 Ford Mustang. Replacing the brake pads may seem like a tough task. Once it is broken down into steps, the process is relatively easy and requires just a few tools available at any auto parts retailer.

Instructions

1

Jack up the vehicle and secure it on jack stands.

2

Loosen and remove the lug nuts using a ratchet and socket. Remove the wheels from the vehicle.

3

Loosen and remove the two slide pin bolts on the rear of the brake caliper with a ratchet and socket.

4

Pry the caliper off of the rotor using a flat head screwdriver. Hang the caliper from a fixed component near the brakes using a bungee strap.

5

Pull the brake pads from the caliper bracket. Place the new brake pads into the bracket in the same position as the old pads.

6

Depress the brake caliper piston with the C-clamp. Do not press directly on the piston; place one of the old brake pads over the piston and press on that to protect it from damage.

7

Slide the caliper over the new brake pads and position the caliper slide pins into the brake caliper. Tighten the pins using the ratchet and socket.

8

Repeat Steps 3 through 7 to replace any additional brake pads.

9

Reinstall the wheels onto the vehicle and hand-tighten the lug nuts.

10

Lower the vehicle to the ground and use a torque wrench and socket to tighten the lug nuts to 80 foot-pounds of torque.

11

Press the brake pedal several times until firm then test-drive the vehicle.