Brake Pads

WARNING: This page is about a different car, the 2005 Mercury Sable and 2005 Ford Taurus. However, it is still accessible from the selected car via links, so may be relevant.

NOTE: It is not necessary to install new brake pads if the friction material properties are within guidelines. It is also not necessary to install new brake pads when the brake discs are machined.

Remove the brake pads. For additional information, refer to FRONT DISC BRAKE for front disc brakes or REAR DISC BRAKE for rear disc brakes.
Inspect and measure the thickness of the brake pad friction material.
- Install new brake pads if the thickness of the friction material is less than 3.0 mm (0.118 inch). For additional information, refer to FRONT DISC BRAKE for front disc brakes or REAR DISC BRAKE for rear disc brakes.
- Compare all 4 front or rear pads for uneven wear. Install new brake pads if the thickness of the friction material varies from pad to pad by more than 2.0 mm (0.079 inch). For additional information, refer to FRONT DISC BRAKE for front disc brakes or REAR DISC BRAKE for rear disc brakes.
- Install new brake pads if there are missing chunks or cracks in the lining through to the backing plate. For additional information, refer to FRONT DISC BRAKE for front disc brakes or REAR DISC BRAKE for rear disc brakes.
- If the friction material shows taper wear (i.e. the thickness varies by more than 3.0 mm [0.118 inch] any direction) verify the caliper guide pins are functioning correctly. For additional information, refer to BRAKE CALIPER GUIDE PINS .