Proper maintenance of your Ford vehicle’s brake system ensures safety, performance, and longevity. Regular brake system inspections are an essential part of this Ford maintenance routine. This guide will walk you through inspecting your Ford brake system, helping you understand what to look for and when to seek professional assistance.

Why Brake System Inspections Matter

Before diving into the inspection process, it’s essential to understand why regular brake system checks are vital:

• Safety: Your brakes are your vehicle’s most critical safety feature. Regular inspections ensure they’re functioning optimally.
• Performance: Well-maintained brakes provide better stopping power and overall vehicle control.
• Cost-Effectiveness: Identifying and addressing issues early can prevent more expensive repairs down the line.
• Longevity: Regular Ford maintenance can extend the life of your brake system components.

When to Inspect Your Brake System

For most Ford vehicles, you should inspect the brake system:

• Every 20,000 kilometers or 12 months, whichever comes first
• When you notice any changes in braking performance
• Before and after long trips
• In preparation for extreme weather conditions

Components of a Ford Brake System

Understanding the components of your Ford brake system is crucial for a thorough inspection. The main components include:

• Brake Pads: The friction material that presses against the rotors to stop the vehicle.
• Rotors (Discs): The metal discs that the brake pads clamp onto to stop the wheel.
• Callipers: The hydraulic clamps that press the brake pads against the rotors.
• Brake Lines: The tubes that carry brake fluid from the master cylinder to the callipers.
• Master Cylinder: The main hydraulic component that pressurizes the brake fluid.
• Brake Fluid: The hydraulic fluid transfers force from the brake pedal to the callipers.
• ABS (Anti-lock Braking System): An electronic system that prevents wheel lock-up during hard braking.

Step-by-Step Brake System Inspection Guide

Visual Inspection

Start with a visual inspection of your Ford brake system:

• Brake Pads: Look through the wheel spokes to see the outer pad. It should have at least 3mm of pad material.
• Rotors: Check for scoring, rust, or uneven wear.
• Callipers: Look for any signs of leakage or damage.
• Brake Lines: Inspect for any cracks, leaks, or corrosion.

Brake Fluid Inspection

Checking the brake fluid is a crucial part of the inspection:

• Locate the brake fluid reservoir under the hood.
• Check the fluid level – it should be between the “MIN” and “MAX” lines.
• Inspect the colour of the fluid. It should be clear to amber. If it’s dark or muddy, it needs to be replaced.
• Check for any signs of leakage around the reservoir or on the ground beneath the vehicle.

Brake Pedal Test

Test the brake pedal feel:

• With the engine off, pump the brake pedal several times to deplete the power assist.
• Press the pedal firmly and hold it. The pedal should feel firm and maintain its position.
• If the pedal sinks to the floor, there may be a leak in the hydraulic system.

Parking Brake Check

Don’t forget to check the parking brake:

• Engage the parking brake and listen for any unusual noises.
• The parking brake should hold the vehicle securely on an incline.
• Check the parking brake cable for any signs of fraying or corrosion.

Brake Warning Light

Pay attention to your dashboard:

• Start the engine and check if the brake warning light illuminates.
• If it stays on after the initial system check, there may be an issue with the brake system or ABS.

Road Test

A road test can reveal issues not apparent during a stationary inspection:

• Drive at a low speed in a safe area and apply the brakes.
• Listen for any unusual noises like squealing or grinding.
• Feel for any vibrations in the steering wheel or brake pedal.
• Check if the vehicle pulls to one side when braking.

Advanced Inspection Techniques

For a more thorough inspection, consider these advanced techniques:

Measuring Brake Pad Thickness

While a visual inspection can give you a general idea, measuring the brake pad thickness provides more accurate results:

• Remove the wheel to access the brake pads.
• Use a brake pad thickness gauge to measure the pad material.
• Ford recommends replacing brake pads when they reach 3mm thickness.

Rotor Thickness Measurement

Measuring rotor thickness helps determine if they need resurfacing or replacement:

• Use a micrometer to measure the rotor thickness at several points.
• Compare your measurements to the minimum thickness specified in your Ford service manual.
• If the rotor is close to or below the minimum thickness, it needs to be replaced.

Brake Fluid Testing

Testing the brake fluid can reveal its condition:

• Use brake fluid test strips to check for copper content, which indicates fluid degradation.
• Ford recommends changing the brake fluid every 3 years or 50,000 kilometers, whichever comes first.

Common Ford Brake System Issues

Be aware of these common issues that can affect Ford brake systems:

• Squealing Brakes: Often indicates worn brake pads and replacement.
• Grinding Noise: Could mean brake pads are completely worn, causing metal-on-metal contact.
• Vibration When Braking: Often caused by warped rotors.
• Soft Brake Pedal: Could indicate air in the brake lines or a problem with the master cylinder.
• Vehicle Pulling to One Side: May be caused by a stuck caliper or uneven brake pad wear.
• ABS Warning Light: Indicates a problem with the anti-lock braking system.

When to Seek Professional Help

While many aspects of brake system inspection can be done at home, certain situations require professional attention:

• If you’re uncomfortable performing any part of the inspection
• When you need to replace brake pads, rotors, or other components
• If you notice any leaks in the brake system
• When the brake warning light stays on
• If you experience any unusual brake behaviour during your road test

Ford-Specific Brake System Features

Ford vehicles often come with advanced brake system features that require special attention:

Electronic Brake Force Distribution (EBD)

This system automatically balances the braking force between the front and rear wheels. During inspection, ensure the EBD warning light is functioning correctly.

Emergency Brake Assist (EBA)

EBA detects emergency braking situations and applies maximum braking force. This system should be checked during routine Ford maintenance at a Ford dealership.

Hill Start Assist

This feature prevents the vehicle from rolling backwards on hills. Test this feature on an incline during your brake system inspection to ensure it’s working correctly.

Maintaining Your Ford Brake System

Regular Ford maintenance can prevent many brake system issues:

• Follow the Maintenance Schedule: Adhere to the Ford recommended maintenance schedule for your specific model.
• Use Quality Parts: When replacements are necessary, use Ford-approved or high-quality aftermarket parts.
• Keep It Clean: Regularly clean your wheels and brakes to prevent the buildup of brake dust and road grime.
• Address Issues Promptly: Don’t ignore warning signs – address brake issues as soon as they arise.

Ford Maintenance: Safety and Performance 

Regular inspection and maintenance of your Ford brake system are crucial for ensuring its safety and performance. By following this comprehensive guide, you can keep your brake system in top condition, potentially saving money on repairs and providing peace of mind on the road.

Remember, while you can inspect many aspects of brake system inspection at home, don’t hesitate to seek professional help when needed. Your local Ford dealership or a qualified mechanic can provide expert assistance and ensure your brake system functions optimally.

By staying proactive about your Ford brake system maintenance, you’re not just maintaining your vehicle – you’re investing in your safety and the safety of others on the road. Regular inspections, timely repairs, and adherence to Ford maintenance recommendations will keep your vehicle stopping safely and efficiently for years.