Tools You'll Need:
* Jack and jack stands: Safety first! Never work under a car supported only by a jack.
* Lug wrench
* Wheel chocks
* Socket wrench set (metric) with extensions and a breaker bar, if needed.
* Wrench set (metric)
* C-clamp or caliper compressor tool: Essential for compressing the caliper piston.
* Brake cleaner
* New brake pads and rotors (if replacing them)
* New brake fluid (DOT 3 or DOT 4, check your owner's manual)
* Pliers
* Torque wrench
* Gloves
* Safety glasses
* Ratchet
Steps (Front Brakes):
1. Safety First: Park on a level surface, engage the parking brake, and chock the rear wheels. Raise the front of the car using the jack and securely place it on 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 14mm or 15mm. Unscrew these bolts. You may need to use a wrench on the caliper bracket itself to assist removal. The caliper is now hanging by the brake line. You can either carefully support it with a bungee cord or wire to prevent the brake line from stretching or use a hanger made for this purpose.
4. Compress the Caliper Piston: Use the 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. You'll need to push it in slowly and steadily, as you may hear a slight hissing sound and feel resistance from the brake fluid being compressed in the system. Be prepared for brake fluid to leak slightly, so have rags ready
5. Remove the Old Brake Pads: Carefully remove the old brake pads from their slots in the caliper.
6. Install the New Brake Pads: Install the new brake pads into the caliper, ensuring they are seated correctly.
7. Install the Rotor (if replacing): If you're replacing the rotor, remove the rotor's mounting bolts (usually four) and carefully slide the old rotor off the hub. Install the new rotor, making sure it's correctly seated.
8. Reinstall the Caliper: Reinstall the caliper onto its mounting bracket, ensuring that it's properly aligned. Securely tighten the mounting bolts to the correct torque specification (check your repair manual).
9. Reinstall the Wheel: Replace the wheel and tighten the lug nuts. Remember, you will need to tighten them further using the proper torque specification later.
10. Repeat for the other side.
Steps (Rear Brakes - Similar but often simpler):
The process for the rear brakes is generally similar, but often simpler. Some models have simpler caliper designs which may not require a caliper compressor. However, always refer to a repair manual specific to your vehicle. Rear brake calipers can sometimes be different in design and the steps will not be exactly the same.
1. Follow steps 1 & 2 from the front brakes
2. Remove caliper, compressing the piston as necessary - Some rear calipers only require turning a screw to release the piston, but some may still require a caliper compressor.
3. Remove brake pads and install new ones
4. Replace rear rotors (if necessary)
5. Reassemble and reinstall the wheel
6. Repeat for the other side
After Completing Brake Work:
* Bleed the brakes: This is crucial to remove air from the brake lines. The procedure requires an assistant to pump the brake pedal while you open and close the bleeder valves on each caliper. Consult your repair manual for the correct bleeding sequence. Improper bleeding can lead to spongy brakes or brake failure.
* Check Brake Fluid Level: Check your brake fluid reservoir and add new fluid if needed.
* Test the Brakes: Before driving, carefully test the brakes in a safe area to ensure they are functioning correctly.
Important Considerations:
* Repair Manual: Get a repair manual specific to your 2003 Mustang. This will provide detailed instructions and torque specifications for your particular model.
* Safety: This is a potentially dangerous job if not done correctly. If you're not comfortable with these steps, take it to a professional mechanic.
* Brake Fluid is Corrosive: Wear gloves and eye protection when handling brake fluid.
* Proper Torque: Use a torque wrench to tighten all bolts to the correct specifications. Incorrect tightening can damage components or lead to brake failure.
This is a general guide. Improperly done brake work can lead to serious injury or death. If you are uncomfortable with any part of this process, it's best to have a qualified mechanic perform the work.
