Tools You'll Need:
* Jack and jack stands: Absolutely essential for safety. Never work under a car supported only by a jack.
* Wheel chocks: To prevent the car from rolling.
* Lug wrench: To remove the wheels.
* Socket set and wrenches: Various sizes will be needed, likely including metric sizes. Check your repair manual for specifics.
* C-clamp or caliper compressor tool: To compress the caliper piston.
* Brake cleaner: To clean brake parts.
* New brake pads: Make sure you get the correct ones for your vehicle.
* New brake rotors (likely): Rotors usually need replacing with new pads, especially if they're worn or scored.
* Torque wrench: Essential for tightening bolts to the correct specification.
* Penetrating oil (like PB Blaster): To help loosen rusted bolts.
* Gloves: To protect your hands.
* Safety glasses: To protect your eyes.
Steps:
1. Safety First: Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and use wheel chocks on the front wheels. Raise the rear of the car using the jack and securely support it with jack stands.
2. Remove the Wheel: Remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel.
3. Remove the Caliper:
* Locate the caliper mounting bolts: These are usually on the back of the caliper.
* Use penetrating oil if needed: Spray on bolts if they're stuck.
* Remove the bolts: Carefully remove the bolts, keeping them organized.
* Carefully remove the caliper: The caliper is now free, but it's still connected by the brake line. Support the caliper with a bungee cord or wire to prevent it from hanging by the brake line.
4. Compress the Caliper Piston: Use a C-clamp or caliper compressor tool to push the caliper piston back into the caliper bore. This creates space for the new, thicker brake pads. Be careful not to damage the piston or boot. You might need to turn the piston to push it back evenly.
5. Remove the Brake Pads: The old pads should now be easily removable.
6. Remove the Rotors (If Replacing): The rotors are usually held on by bolts. Remove those bolts and carefully take off the old rotors. If you're reusing the rotors, clean them thoroughly.
7. Install the New Rotors (If Replacing): Install the new rotors, ensuring they're properly seated. Tighten the bolts to the manufacturer's specified torque.
8. Install the New Brake Pads: Carefully install the new brake pads into their slots.
9. Reinstall the Caliper: Carefully place the caliper back onto the mounting brackets and install the bolts, tightening them to the manufacturer's specified torque.
10. Reinstall the Wheel: Put the wheel back on and tighten the lug nuts.
11. Lower the Vehicle: Carefully lower the vehicle from the jack stands.
12. Tighten Lug Nuts: Once the vehicle is on the ground, give the lug nuts a final tightening.
13. Pump the Brakes: Before driving, pump the brake pedal several times to build up pressure. Check for leaks.
14. Test Drive: Take a short test drive to ensure the brakes are working correctly.
Important Considerations:
* Bleeding the Brakes: In some cases, you may need to bleed the brakes after replacing the pads and rotors to remove any air bubbles from the brake lines. This is often a two-person job.
* Brake Fluid: If you're working with the brake lines, be sure to use the correct type of brake fluid for your vehicle.
* Professional Help: If you're uncomfortable performing this task yourself, it's best to take your car to a qualified mechanic. Brakes are a critical safety system.
This guide provides a general overview. Always refer to a repair manual specific to your 2002 Mustang V6 for detailed instructions and safety precautions. Improper brake repair can lead to serious injury or death.
