How to Replace the Front Brake Calipers: 2009-2014 Ford F-150

Watch this video to learn how to replace front brake calipers on a 2009-2014 Ford F-150.

Replacing Front Brake Calipers on a 2009-2014 Ford F-150: What You Need

Ready to perform this DIY replacement job? Remember that all the parts in this guide can be found on CarParts.com. Check out all the products that fit your vehicle right here.

Parts Checklist

• Brake calipers: Driver and Passenger sides
• Brake cleaner

Tightening Torques

• Slide pins : 27 Ft-lbs
• Front brake flexible hose bracket bolt : 22 Ft-lbs

Tools Checklist

Here’s the toolbox we recommend to repair your Ford F-150 : HM85 85 Piece Ratchet and Socket Set

List of tools:

• Hydraulic jack
• Jack stands
• Wheel lug wrench
• Brake Wind-Back Tool
• Fluid collector
• Vise grip
• Two sockets
• Ratchet
• 14mm socket
• Flat head screwdriver
• Wire brush
• Sanding paper
• Torque wrench
• Clamp or iron wire
• 17mm spanner
• 13mm socket
• Cloth

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Turn off the engine, set the parking brake, pull the bonnet release handle, and open the bonnet.

Step 2: Open the brake fluid reservoir.

Step 3: Loosen the stud bolts on the front wheels.

Step 4: Lift the front of your vehicle and securely place it on axle stands. Watch our “How to jack your Ford F-150 safely” video for guidance before proceeding.

Step 5: To change brake caliper and caliper mount, remove the wheels for access. Place the wheels under the vehicle.

Step 6: Turn the disk inward for easier access.

Step 7: If changing caliper and caliper mount, watch our video on “How to change the brake disks and pads on a Ford F-150”.

Step 8: Once other parts are removed, remove the caliper.

Step 9: Place a used pad in the caliper, then press the pistons into the caliper using a clamp or Brake Wind-Back Tool. Collect leaking brake fluid in a container placed under the caliper.

Step 10: Limit fluid leakage by clamping the brake hose with a vise grip and two sockets, especially if changing the brake hose. Refer to our video “How to replace the front brake hose Ford F-150.”

Step 11: Unscrew the banjo screw connecting the hose to the caliper using a ratchet and a 14mm socket. Be cautious of brake fluid spillage.

Step 12: Using a flathead screwdriver, remove copper seals from the brake hose fixture. If not replacing the hose, clean the hose-to-caliper contact area using a wire brush or sandpaper.

Step 13: Install new seals and the new banjo screw on the hose.

Step 14: Unscrew holding screws from the new brake caliper set, then remove the caliper.

Step 15: Screw the banjo screw connecting the brake hose to the caliper back in, remove the vise grip, and finish tightening using a torque wrench. Attach the brake caliper to the wheel knuckle, securing it with a clamp or wire.

Step 16: Put the brake disc, caliper mount and brake pads back on your vehicle. Attach the new brake caliper in place, then hand-screw the slide pins. Block the rotation of the columns with a 17mm wrench, tighten the slide pins using a socket wrench and a 13mm socket. Finish with a torque wrench.

Step 17: Bleed the brake fluid system to remove air.

Step 18: Clean both sides of the disc with brake cleaner and a cloth to remove grease from installing new pads.

Step 19: Put the wheels back on your vehicle.

Step 20: Lower the vehicle and block the wheels properly.

Step 21: Screw the brake fluid cap back on before starting the car.

Step 22: Start your car, pump the brake pedal a few times to push the brake pads together again.

Step 23: Drive smoothly for the first 30 miles to prevent glazing the new pads.

Compatible Vehicles

The operation and tools displayed in the video should be available on the following vehicles :

• 2009 Ford F150
• 2010 Ford F150
• 2011 Ford F150
• 2012 Ford F150
• 2013 Ford F150
• 2014 Ford F150

Important Reminders

Once the operation is completed, you’ll need pump slowly on the brake pedal a few times until feeling a strong resistance from the pedal. The aim being to bring the brake pads closer to one other.

Drive smoothly and avoid sudden braking for the first 30 miles or so, to avoid glazing the new pads. What do we mean by “glazing new brake pads”? Brake pads are made of a material that needs to be run-in when new. If this procedure is not done properly, when braking too hard, the material overheats and hardens. Consequently, the brakes become less effective.

Place a used pad in the caliper, then using a clamp or Brake Wind-Back Tool, press the pistons into the caliper. This step is essential when installing the new pads, but it also allows you to remove brake fluid contained in the caliper.

Disclaimer:

This video is for entertainment purposes only. CarParts.com, Inc. disclaims all damages including, but not limited to, actual, consequential, and/or punitive, for any liability, claim, or any other injury or cause related to or arising from any information or lack thereof posted in this video. No information contained in this video shall create any expressed or implied warranty or guarantee of any particular result. All mechanical car projects entail some risk. It is the sole responsibility of the viewer to assume this risk. If you are in doubt, please consult a licensed mechanic in your area.