Here's a general outline. This is not a complete, detailed guide, and you should consult a repair manual specific to your vehicle year and model for precise instructions and torque specifications. Improperly installed brakes are dangerous.
Tools You'll Need:
* Jack and jack stands: Absolutely essential for safety. Never work under a car supported only by a jack.
* Lug wrench: To remove the wheels.
* Wheel chocks: For added safety.
* Socket wrench and sockets: Various sizes, likely including 13mm, 14mm, and possibly others.
* C-clamp or brake caliper compressor: To compress the caliper piston. A C-clamp is often sufficient, but a purpose-built compressor is easier and safer.
* Wrench for caliper bracket bolts: Probably a 14mm or 15mm, check your manual.
* Pliers or brake caliper tool: To help push back the caliper piston.
* Brake cleaner: To clean the brake components.
* New brake pads: Make sure you get the correct ones for your vehicle.
* New rotors (likely): Often, rotors need to be replaced when you change the pads. Check their condition carefully; if they're grooved or excessively worn, replace them.
* Torque wrench: Essential for tightening bolts to the correct specification – prevents damage and ensures safety.
* Gloves and safety glasses: Protect yourself.
Steps (General Outline - Consult your repair manual for specifics):
1. Safety First: Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and chock the wheels. Jack up the vehicle and securely place it on jack stands.
2. Remove the Wheel: Remove the lug nuts and take off the wheel.
3. Inspect the Brake System: Examine the brake pads and rotors for wear. Measure pad thickness; if they're too thin, replace them. Check the rotors for scoring, grooves, or excessive wear; they may need replacing as well.
4. Remove the Caliper: Locate the bolts holding the caliper to the caliper bracket. Unscrew these bolts. Often, you'll need to support the caliper with a bungee cord or wire to keep it from hanging by the brake line.
5. Compress the Caliper Piston: Using the C-clamp or caliper compressor, carefully compress the piston back into the caliper. This creates space for the new, thicker brake pads. Be careful not to damage the piston or boot.
6. Remove Old Brake Pads: The old brake pads should now be easily removable.
7. Install New Brake Pads: Insert the new brake pads into their slots.
8. Install the Caliper: Reinstall the caliper onto the bracket and tighten the bolts to the correct torque specification (check your repair manual).
9. Reinstall the Wheel: Put the wheel back on and tighten the lug nuts. Don't fully tighten them yet.
10. Lower the Vehicle: Carefully lower the vehicle to the ground.
11. Tighten Lug Nuts: Tighten the lug nuts to the specified torque (check your repair manual).
12. Test the Brakes: Pump the brake pedal several times to ensure the brakes engage properly. Test the brakes gently at low speed before driving normally.
13. Repeat for other Wheels: Repeat steps 2-12 for the other wheels.
Important Considerations:
* Brake Fluid: You may need to bleed the brakes after replacing the pads, especially if you opened the brake line. This is a crucial step to remove air from the brake lines. Improper bleeding can lead to spongy brakes.
* Rotor Resurfacing: In some cases, rotors can be resurfaced to remove minor scoring. This requires specialized tools.
* Repair Manual: A repair manual specific to your 2005 Ford Focus ZX4 is invaluable. It will provide detailed diagrams, torque specifications, and step-by-step instructions.
Remember, safety is paramount. If you have any doubts about your ability to complete this task safely and correctly, take your vehicle to a professional mechanic. Improperly installed brakes can lead to serious accidents.
